What is Cubic Capacity and Why Does it Matter in LTL Shipping?

Shipping freight but feeling uncertain about cubic capacity and how it impacts your LTL shipping costs? Don’t worry. We are here to break it down so you can ship smarter, save money and avoid unnecessary surprises.

What is Cubic Capacity?

Cubic capacity refers to the amount of space your shipment occupies in a truck. In less than truckload (LTL) shipping, carriers calculate pricing based on a combination of weight and volume because every inch of truck space matters.

Lightweight but bulky items can take up more room than heavier, compact shipments, making cubic capacity a critical factor in determining costs.

Why is Cubic Capacity Important?

Understanding cubic capacity can help you manage shipping expenses and avoid unexpected charges. Here is how:

Avoid Cubic Capacity Surcharges: Carriers may impose additional fees if your shipment exceeds 750 cubic feet but has a low density (less than 6 lbs per cubic foot). This helps offset the cost of moving items that take up lots of space but contribute little weight.

Get Accurate Freight Quotes: Knowing the cubic capacity of your shipment ensures the quotes you receive reflect the actual costs, saving you from unpleasant surprises.

Optimize Your Shipping Strategy: With a clear understanding of cubic capacity, you can explore alternatives like volume LTL, partial truckload or dedicated truckload to find the most cost-effective option.

How to Calculate and Manage Cubic Capacity

Measure Your Shipment: Start by measuring your shipment's length, width and height in inches. Multiply these dimensions to calculate the total cubic inches, then divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.

Determine Density: Divide the weight in pounds by the cubic feet of your shipment. Freight with a density below 6 lbs per cubic foot may incur cubic capacity fees.

Use Freightzy’s Tools: Our shipping density calculator simplifies this process, giving quick and accurate estimates of your shipment’s cubic capacity.

Consult the Experts: Not sure if your shipment qualifies for special handling? Contact Freightzy’s team for advice on the best LTL shipping strategy. We can even help you revise quotes to reflect your shipment’s true volume.

Why Choose Freightzy for LTL Shipping

Freightzy simplifies the complexities of LTL shipping with tools and expertise designed to make your experience seamless.

User-Friendly Platform: Calculate cubic capacity, generate freight quotes and book shipments all in one place.

Accurate Information: Our automated system ensures that shipping documents are error-free, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes.

Expert Support: From navigating cubic capacity rules to exploring alternative shipping methods, our team is here to help every step of the way.

Cost Optimization: Freightzy helps you choose the most cost-effective shipping strategy whether it is volume LTL, partial truckload or another solution.

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