When a shipment is too big or heavy for a regular parcel — think pallets, machinery or bulk orders — you move into the world of freight and LTL shipping. This guide explains when you need freight instead of parcel, what LTL means, what happened to “UPS Freight,” and how to ship a pallet and get a quote.
This is an independent shipping guide. Get official freight quotes on ups.com (or tforcefreight.com) — we are not affiliated with United Parcel Service.
When do you need freight instead of parcel?
UPS parcel services like UPS Ground handle packages up to 150 lbs. Beyond that — or when goods are palletized, oversized, or shipped in bulk — you’ll use a freight service. Typical freight candidates include furniture, appliances, equipment, and multi-box business orders stacked on a pallet.
What is LTL (less-than-truckload) shipping?
LTL stands for less-than-truckload. Instead of paying for a whole trailer, your freight shares space with other shippers’ goods, and you only pay for the portion you use — anything from a single pallet to several. It’s the cost-effective middle ground between parcel and a full truckload (FTL).
What happened to UPS Freight?
Worth knowing: in April 2021, UPS sold its UPS Freight LTL business to TFI International, and it was rebranded as TForce Freight. So the old “UPS Freight” LTL carrier now operates as TForce Freight. UPS kept a commercial relationship with it, which is why you’ll still see UPS freight options for heavy shipments.
UPS Ground with Freight Pricing
For shipments that fall between parcel and full LTL, UPS offers UPS Ground with Freight Pricing. It’s aimed at non-palletized, multi-package shipments of about 151–500 lbs, billed on LTL tariff pricing — which can save up to around 20% versus standard LTL, with day-definite delivery. It’s a handy option for businesses sending several heavy boxes at once.
How to ship a pallet (step by step)
- Palletize and secure your goods — stack on a sturdy pallet, distribute weight evenly, and shrink-wrap and/or strap the load.
- Measure and weigh the full pallet (length, width, height and total weight).
- Determine the freight class (an NMFC class based on density, value and handling) — it affects the price.
- Get a quote on ups.com or tforcefreight.com using those dimensions, weight and class.
- Book and schedule a pickup, print the BOL (bill of lading), and hand off the freight.
Watch for accessorial charges
Freight quotes can grow with accessorials — extra services such as a liftgate (for locations without a loading dock), residential pickup/delivery, inside delivery, limited-access locations, and appointment scheduling. Declare what you need up front so the quote is accurate and you avoid surprise re-bills.
Tracking a freight shipment
Freight is tracked by your BOL or PRO number rather than a 1Z parcel number. For parcel shipments, see our UPS tracking guide; for freight, track on the carrier’s site with your PRO number.
Frequently asked questions
Is UPS Freight still around?
UPS sold its UPS Freight LTL business to TFI International in April 2021, and it now operates as TForce Freight. UPS still offers heavy-shipment options such as UPS Ground with Freight Pricing.
When do I need freight instead of parcel shipping?
Generally when a shipment is over 150 lbs, palletized, or oversized. Lighter packages ship as parcel (e.g. UPS Ground); heavier or palletized loads go LTL freight.
What is LTL shipping?
Less-than-truckload — your freight shares a trailer with other shippers’ goods, so you pay only for the space you use, ideal for one to several pallets.
How do I get a UPS freight quote?
Measure and weigh your pallet, determine its freight class, then request a quote on ups.com (UPS Ground with Freight Pricing) or tforcefreight.com for LTL.
Related: UPS Ground Shipping · How to Pack for UPS · UPS Tracking.