10 Types of Freight Solutions: A Guide to Shipping Methods & Logistics

Are you exploring types of freight or have you got a shipment ready to go, but you’re stuck with how to get it where it needs to be, on time, and without breaking the bank? With so many types of freight transportation available, choosing the right one can feel like standing at a crossroads with no signs.

Let’s break down the 10 most common freight transportation types, so you can find the perfect match for your business.

Less Than Truckload (LTL) Shipping – Best for Smaller Shipments

If your shipment isn’t large enough to fill an entire truck, LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping is your go-to option. This method combines shipments from multiple businesses into a single truck, meaning you only pay for the space you use. If you require any information, you can contact a reliable freight company.

• Great for: Small to medium shipments (150 to 15,000 pounds) 
• Transit time: Longer than full truckload, as multiple deliveries happen along the route 
• Cost: More affordable than FTL, but pricing depends on weight, distance, and freight class. 

Pro Tip: If speed is a concern, opt for expedited LTL services to reduce transit time. 

Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping – When Time & Space Matter

Did you get a big shipment? Need a dedicated truck? FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is the way to go. Since the truck is entirely yours, there are no extra stops, making delivery faster and more secure. 

• Great for: Large, high-volume shipments 
• Transit time: Faster than LTL since there are no detours 
• Cost: Higher than LTL, but worth it for direct, secure transport 

Did You Know? FTL shipments reduce handling, which means less risk of damage—perfect for fragile or high-value goods. 

Air Freight – The Fastest Way to Ship

When time is money, air freight gets the job done. It’s the quickest shipping method, ideal for urgent or high-value goods. But speed comes at a price—it’s one of the most expensive freight options. 

• Great for: Time-sensitive, high-value shipments (medical supplies, electronics, luxury items) 
• Transit time: Fastest option—often overnight or within a few days 
• Cost: High, but worth it for urgent deliveries 

Fact: Air freight accounts for 35% of global trade value despite making up only 1% of total freight volume. 

Ocean Freight – The Best Choice for Large International Shipments

Ocean freight is the most cost-effective way to move large cargo when shipping internationally. While it’s cheaper than air freight, it also takes significantly longer. 

• Great for: Large-volume international shipments 
• Transit time: 20–60 days, depending on distance and customs clearance 
• Cost: Lower than air freight but requires longer planning 

Did You Know? About 80% of global trade moves by sea. 

Rail Freight – The Eco-Friendly Heavyweight

Rail freight is an efficient and eco-friendly way to move large shipments over land. It’s cheaper than trucking but only works if your pickup and drop-off locations have railway access. 

• Great for: Bulk materials like coal, steel, and grains 
• Transit time: Slower than trucking but more efficient for long distances 
• Cost: Lower than FTL trucking 

Eco-Friendly Bonus: Rail transport produces 75% fewer emissions than trucks, making it a greener choice. 

Intermodal Shipping – A Smart Combination of Freight Modes

Why choose just one shipping method when you can use multiple? Intermodal shipping combines rail, truck, ocean, and air to create an optimized, cost-effective solution. 

• Great for: Shipments traveling long distances using different transport modes 
• Transit time: Varies, but balances cost and efficiency 
• Cost: Lower than exclusive air or truck transport 

Example: A shipment from China to the U.S. might travel by ocean freight, then transfer to rail or truck for final delivery. 

Expedited Freight – When Every Second Counts

If you need next-day or even same-day delivery, expedited freight is your best bet. This method prioritizes speed using dedicated trucks or air freight. 

• Great for: Urgent shipments (medical supplies, just-in-time manufacturing) 
• Transit time: Fastest land option 
• Cost: Higher than standard trucking, but ensures on-time delivery 

Pro Tip: Expedited freight often includes real-time tracking for added peace of mind. 

White Glove Services – Premium Handling for Fragile Goods

Do you need extra care for your shipment? White glove services provide specialized handling, inside delivery, and even installation. 

• Great for: Electronics, furniture, medical equipment 
• Transit time: Customizable based on needs 
• Cost: Premium service with higher rates 

Why Choose White Glove? Some items require more than just delivery—they need careful setup and handling. 

Drop Shipping – No Inventory Needed

Drop shipping allows businesses to sell products without storing them. Instead, manufacturers or wholesalers ship items directly to customers. 

• Great for: E-commerce businesses 
• Transit time: Varies by supplier 
• Cost: Lower overhead, but product margins may be thinner 

Did You Know? The global drop shipping market is projected to reach $557.9 billion by 2025. 

Freight Consolidation – Lower Costs for Small Shipments

Freight consolidation bundles smaller shipments headed to the same destination into one larger load, reducing costs and improving efficiency. 

• Great for: Small businesses shipping frequently 
• Transit time: Slightly longer due to consolidation 
• Cost: Lower than standard LTL rates 

Bonus Tip: Freight consolidation is one of the types of freight that can reduce handling damages by optimizing packaging and transport. 

Which Freight Solution Is Right for You?

Choosing the right types of freight is essential. As it balances cost, speed, and reliability. Whether you’re shipping small parcels via LTL, moving high-value goods with air freight, or optimizing costs with intermodal shipping, understanding your options ensures efficient and cost-effective logistics.

By assessing your shipment size, urgency, and budget, you can select the best freight solution to keep your business moving forward.

At Warrior Logistics, we live by the Warrior Mindset, providing customized, reliable, and cost-effective freight solutions. Let’s get your shipments moving—the Warrior way. 

Contact us today and experience the Warrior Difference!