Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

The typical weight limit for a truckload (TL) shipment is generally over 15,000 lbs. In freight transportation, a truckload shipment refers to goods that fill the entire capacity of a trailer, which is usually defined by both volume and weight. Most standard freight trucks can legally carry up to 80,000 lbs total, including both the truck and the cargo. While full truckload shipments can vary based on the type of goods and the regulations in different regions, a shipment weight of over 15,000 lbs is a common threshold that indicates the beginning of a truckload shipment.

In contrast, smaller weights, such as those below 15,000 lbs, often categorize shipments as less than truckload (LTL) shipments, where multiple shippers share the same trailer space. This is because LTL shipments generally consist of multiple smaller shipments that do not require the entire truck’s capacity. Shipping weights below this threshold may also indicate that the load is less than what would typically be classified as a full truckload. Understanding these weight classifications is essential for effective logistics and supply chain management, ensuring proper capacity planning and optimal freight costs.