How can I reduce my freight shipping costs?

Reducing freight costs is one of the biggest wins for shippers, and small changes can add up to 10–40% savings depending on your volume, lanes, and current setup.

Here are the most effective strategies we help clients implement for both LTL and FTL shipments.

1. Optimize freight density & packaging (biggest LTL saver)

• Increase pounds per cubic foot (PCF) to lower freight class—aim for Class 100 or below.

• Use tighter pallet patterns, stack higher (safely), eliminate empty space with fillers.

• Switch to denser packaging (e.g., nested items, compressed boxes).

• Potential savings: 20–50%+ on LTL by dropping 1–2 classes.

2. Hit better weight breaks & consolidate shipments

• Combine smaller loads to reach higher weight tiers (e.g., 500 lbs, 1,000 lbs, 2,000+ lbs breaks in LTL for lower per-CWT rates).

• For FTL: Fill trailers closer to capacity (target 80–90% utilization) to drop per-unit cost.

• Pool shipments from multiple locations if possible.

3. Choose the right mode & lane

• Compare LTL vs. FTL quotes every time—breakeven often around 10–12 pallets or 10,000–15,000 lbs.

• Use backhaul lanes (high outbound, low return) for cheaper FTL rates.

• Avoid peak seasons/hot lanes when possible, or book early.

4. Negotiate & build volume leverage

• Ship regularly with the same providers → qualify for contracted rates, percentage discounts, or fuel surcharge caps.

• Bundle LTL/FTL volume for better overall pricing.

• Ask for accessorial waivers (e.g., liftgate, residential) on high-volume accounts.

• Give us a call or send us an email and we'll go over any available "Customer Specific Pricing" or CSP that may be available to you through us!

5. Minimize accessorials & surprises

• Use commercial docks instead of residential/liftgate when feasible.

• Schedule efficient loading/unloading to avoid detention.

• Measure/weight accurately upfront—no reweigh/reclass fees.

• Prep freight properly (palletizing, labeling) to prevent handling fees.

6. Improve shipment preparation & data accuracy

• Accurate dimensions/weights/class → correct quotes and no corrections.

• Declare value only when needed (avoid unnecessary premiums).

• Use eBOLs and digital tools for faster processing. (when the situation is available)

7. Work with a knowledgeable partner

• Get multiple carrier options per load—we shop our network for the best rate/service combo.

• Audit past invoices for overcharges (some shippers recover 5–15% this way).

• Use analytics: Track spend by lane/mode to spot patterns and negotiate harder.

Quick savings checklist:

• Recalculate density → lower class?

• Can you consolidate to hit next weight break?

• Is FTL cheaper per pallet than multiple LTLs?

• Any avoidable accessorials (residential → commercial alternative)?

• Ready for contracted pricing (weekly/monthly volume)?

Many of our clients cut costs 15–30% in the first few months just by optimizing density, mode choice, and accessorial avoidance.

If you share your typical shipment details (average weight/pallets, top lanes, current rates), we can run a quick audit and show specific opportunities tailored to you—no obligation.

Support@HonestFreightUSA.com