6 Proven Pallet Shipping Moves to Reduce LTL Freight Damage

LTL pallet shipping is one of the most efficient ways to move freight across North America, but it also carries higher damage risks due to frequent handling and shared trailer space. Whether freight moves across Canadian provinces or between U.S. states, proper pallet preparation plays a critical role in protecting shipments.

Damage prevention starts long before pickup. Every decision—from pallet selection and load balance to wrapping and labeling—directly affects freight safety. By applying proven pallet shipping practices, businesses can significantly reduce loss, improve delivery reliability, and control shipping costs.

This guide outlines six essential pallet shipping moves, with specific considerations for both Canada and the United States, to help shippers minimize LTL damage across domestic and cross-border lanes.

Understanding LTL Pallet Shipping Risks

LTL freight moves through shared trailers, terminals, and transfer hubs. Each stop introduces additional handling, stacking, and vibration risks. Palletized freight must withstand compression, sudden movement, and repeated repositioning.

Because LTL shipments rarely travel directly from origin to destination, damage often results from unstable pallets, inadequate wrapping, or weak packaging. These risks exist across both Canadian and U.S. freight networks, although operating conditions vary by region.

Consistent pallet shipping standards are essential to protect freight across different climates, distances, and terminal environments.

Pallet Shipping Considerations in Canada

Canadian palletized freight often travels long distances between provinces, increasing transit time and exposure to vibration. Seasonal weather adds another layer of risk.

Cold winter temperatures can make packaging materials brittle, while snow and ice increase road vibration. Canadian shippers should prioritize reinforced cartons, secure wrapping, and moisture-resistant pallet protection to prevent damage.

Businesses shipping with ULS Freight benefit from strong palletization standards that help protect LTL freight during long-haul and cross-border moves.

Pallet Shipping Considerations in the United States

The U.S. LTL network handles extremely high shipment volumes, especially through major distribution hubs. Frequent terminal transfers increase handling exposure and damage risk.

Uniform pallet sizing, clear labeling, and secure freight are critical to moving shipments smoothly through both automated and manual handling systems. Overhanging freight is especially vulnerable in busy U.S. terminals.

Shippers operating in dense freight corridors benefit from consistent pallet preparation aligned with national carrier standards.

Move 1: Choose Strong, Standard Pallets

Pallet quality forms the foundation of freight protection. Standard 40 × 48-inch pallets are widely accepted across both Canada and the United States.

Damaged or lightweight pallets increase the risk of collapse during forklift handling. Cracked boards, loose fasteners, and weakened deck boards compromise load stability and raise claim risk.

For heavier shipments, reinforced pallets provide improved load support and reduce pallet failure during terminal transfers.

Move 2: Balance Weight Across the Pallet

Uneven weight distribution leads to tipping and shifting during transit. Properly balanced pallets resist movement when trailers brake, turn, or stop abruptly.

Heavier items should always be placed at the base of the pallet, with lighter cartons stacked on top. This approach reduces compression damage and improves overall stability.

Freight should never extend beyond pallet edges. Overhang significantly increases impact damage during cross-docking operations.

Move 3: Secure Freight with Proper Wrapping

Stretch wrap is essential for LTL pallet protection. Wrapping should anchor freight directly to the pallet base to prevent sliding.

Multiple wrap layers improve resistance to vibration and lateral movement—especially important for long-distance shipments across Canada and the United States.

For high-value or fragile freight, banding and corner protectors add extra stability and impact resistance.

Move 4: Protect Against Stacking Pressure

LTL shipments are frequently stacked with other freight. Packaging must be strong enough to withstand vertical compression.

Using durable cartons, internal supports, and protective dividers reduces crushing risk, particularly for fragile goods and electronics.

Shippers working with ULS Freight benefit from packaging designed to tolerate stacking across multiple terminals.

Move 5: Label Clearly for Handling Efficiency

Clear labeling improves handling accuracy and reduces unnecessary movement. Pallets should display labels on all visible sides.

Handling instructions such as Fragile or Do Not Stack help guide terminal staff and reduce improper stacking.

Accurate labeling also minimizes delays and inspection handling during cross-border shipments.

Move 6: Prepare for Multiple Handling Points

LTL freight may be loaded and unloaded several times before delivery. Pallets must be built to withstand repeated handling.

Anti-skid mats, slip sheets, and reinforced pallet bases reduce shifting during transfers. These small additions significantly improve pallet integrity.

Shippers who prepare for multiple touchpoints experience fewer damage claims and smoother deliveries.

Why Damage Prevention Matters for Canadian Shippers

Freight damage in Canada often leads to extended delays due to distance and weather. Replacement shipments may take days or weeks to arrive.

Preventing damage protects inventory value, reduces claims administration, and preserves customer trust—especially for long-haul and interprovincial shipments.

Why Damage Prevention Matters for U.S. Shippers

In the United States, high shipment volume means damage can disrupt tight delivery schedules.

Damage claims slow operations and impact customer satisfaction. Proactive pallet safety helps protect profit margins and brand reputation.

Cross-Border Pallet Shipping Best Practices

Cross-border freight between Canada and the United States requires additional preparation. Pallets must meet compliance requirements and withstand inspections.

Stable pallets reduce inspection handling, while proper wrapping and labeling support faster border processing.

Businesses using ULS Freight for cross-border shipping benefit from pallet standards aligned with both Canadian and U.S. requirements.

Final Thoughts

Reducing LTL damage starts with smart pallet preparation. From pallet selection to load balance and wrapping, every step contributes to freight safety.

While Canadian and U.S. shippers face different challenges, the fundamentals remain the same. Strong pallets, balanced loads, and secure packaging protect freight everywhere.

By following these six pallet shipping moves, businesses can improve delivery reliability and significantly reduce costly damage claims.