Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Honest answers from Gateway Distribution, less than truckload (LTL) in Alabama, AL.
You're shipping enough in Alabama that the costs are adding up. You're wondering if you should buy your own truck or keep using freight companies. The math isn't clear and you need to know which option actually saves money.
Most businesses face this decision when shipping costs hit $3,000 to $5,000 per month. The break-even point depends on how often you ship the same routes. If you're sending freight from Birmingham to Mobile twice a week, that's different math than random shipments across Alabama.
Owning a truck costs more than the purchase price. Factor in driver wages ($45,000-$55,000 annually), commercial insurance ($8,000-$12,000), maintenance, fuel, and downtime for repairs. Most businesses need 50+ shipments per month on consistent routes to justify owning. LTL freight companies spread these costs across many customers.
Track your shipping for three months. Count how many times you ship the same route each week. If it's less than three times weekly to the same destination, freight companies usually cost less. Gateway Distribution can analyze your shipping patterns and show you the real numbers for Alabama routes.
Once you know the math, the decision becomes clear. You'll either save thousands by switching to your own truck or confirm that LTL service keeps more money in your pocket. Either way, you'll stop wondering and start knowing.
Other things people in Alabama ask
LTL vs full truckload
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you need faster transit. LTL costs less for small shipments but takes longer due to multiple stops.
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
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Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Alabama and the area around it.