Freight Shipping Costs 2025: Complete Guide to Saving on LTL & FTL
Freight shipping costs are rising in 2025, leaving many businesses searching for ways to cut expenses without sacrificing speed or reliability. The good news? You don’t have to overpay. Whether you ship a few pallets a week or manage full truckloads, there are proven strategies to lower costs while keeping your supply chain moving efficiently.
At X Logistics, we specialize in helping businesses ship smarter with aggressive LTL and FTL rates, nationwide carrier contracts, and hands-on support built for today’s freight challenges.
Average Freight Shipping Costs in 2025
Freight rates vary by region, freight class, and carrier contracts, but here are general benchmarks:
Shipping ModeTypical 2025 RateBest For LTL Freight $150–$400 per pallet (regional)1–6 pallets, partial loads FTL Freight$1.75–$3.50 per mile Full truckloads, 20+ pallets Flatbed Freight $2.25–$4.00 per mile Oversized/heavy freight
👉 Quick Tip: Businesses that consolidate shipments and work with brokers like X Logistics often save 15–30% vs booking directly with carriers.
Key Factors That Affect Freight Costs
Distance & Lane – Long hauls and less-traveled lanes cost more.
Freight Class & Weight – Packaging and density determine class; higher classes = higher rates.
Accessorials – Liftgate, residential delivery, and inside pickup add to cost.
Seasonality & Demand – Peak shipping seasons raise rates.
Fuel Surcharges – Fuel price fluctuations impact every mode.
How to Lower Freight Shipping Costs
1. Consolidate Shipments
Fewer, larger loads cut handling and per-pallet costs.
2. Optimize Packaging
Densify freight to qualify for a lower class and avoid wasted space.
3. Leverage Broker Contracts
X Logistics taps into national LTL & FTL carrier agreements that beat most direct rates.
4. Compare Multiple Quotes
Rates can vary widely; a broker ensures you see the best option per lane.
5. Plan Ahead When Possible
Avoid last-minute shipping — expedited services always cost more.
LTL vs FTL: Which Is Cheaper in 2025?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload): Cost-effective for partial shipments (1–6 pallets). You pay only for the trailer space you use.
FTL (Full Truckload): Better when you can fill most of a trailer — or when speed, security, or delicate freight requires a dedicated truck.
👉 See our full breakdown here: LTL vs FTL Freight: Which Should You Choose?
Nationwide Savings with X Logistics
Our team has helped businesses save thousands annually by consolidating lanes, securing better carrier contracts, and monitoring shipments from dispatch to delivery.
Case Example:
A Midwest manufacturer cut LTL costs by 28% in one year by routing through X Logistics’ preferred carrier network instead of booking direct.
👉 Ready to save? Request a Quote Today
FAQs on Freight Shipping Costs
Q: How are LTL rates calculated?
A: LTL pricing is based on weight, freight class, distance, and any accessorials.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to ship freight?
A: Palletized LTL with consolidated lanes is often cheapest for small to mid-sized shipments.
Q: Do freight brokers really save money?
A: Yes — brokers have volume-based discounts with carriers that most businesses can’t access directly.
Q: How do freight class and NMFC codes affect price?
A: Higher freight classes (bulkier or fragile goods) = higher rates. Packaging to lower class saves money.
Conclusion
Freight shipping costs in 2025 don’t have to eat into your margins. By consolidating loads, optimizing packaging, and leveraging a broker like X Logistics, businesses can ship smarter, save more, and ensure every load moves with speed and confidence.
👉 Get started today: Request a Freight Quote
