How LTL shipping supports a sustainable supply chain
As companies strive to reduce their environmental impact, choosing a more efficient shipping method can make a substantial difference. Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is considered a favorable option for those aiming to adopt sustainable practices because it has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption.
What lessens LTL’s impact on the environment?
With LTL shipping, multiple shippers’ goods are combined into a single trailer that travels through a hub-and-spoke network of service centers. This provides the following benefits:
Efficient use of space
Consolidating shipments from multiple customers reduces empty space in trailers and decreases the total number of freight vehicles on the road, contributing to lower fuel consumption and less traffic congestion.
Enhanced routing
LTL carriers often have sophisticated routing systems to ensure trucks travel the shortest or most efficient routes possible. This reduces the total mileage covered and the emissions associated with those trips.
Optimal use of resources
LTL carriers design their transportation networks to reduce empty miles and optimize the flow of freight. This involves strategically placing service centers to optimize pickup and delivery as well as using real-time information to match shipments with available trailer space.
How ArcBest approaches sustainability in our LTL network
We understand the transportation and logistics industry's vital role in protecting our environment. Our approach to sustainability involves several initiatives, but these most impact our LTL service:
Fuel efficient equipment
We continually invest in our fleet so that our equipment has the latest fuel-efficient technologies. This includes adopting aerodynamic designs, low rolling resistance tires and advanced engine management systems that optimize fuel usage.
We also use retread tires, which consume 15 gallons less oil in production than new tires and include up to 75% post-consumer recycled material. Each retread tire saves nearly 40 pounds of raw material, significantly reducing resource use and waste.
Route optimization
City Route Optimization technology uses artificial intelligence and historical data to create algorithms that optimize how shipments are routed. Through this initiative, we minimized drive time and distances and increased the fuel efficiency of our city fleet.
Alternative energy sources
ArcBest is actively exploring alternative energy sources for our fleet, including electric vehicles and hybrid technologies. We’re testing and implementing electric trucks, yard tractors and forklifts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Our operations also incorporate renewable diesel and various biodiesel blends across several states.
More efficient facilities
Sustainability improvements extend to our offices and service centers, where we implement energy-efficient LED lighting and water-saving plumbing systems. By replacing HVAC units with high-efficiency models as needed, our buildings can operate with optimal power use, lowering our energy use.
Aligning your environmental goals with ArcBest
ArcBest continuously seeks innovative ways to improve sustainability while providing exceptional customer service. Through these efforts, we aim to lead by example in the logistics industry, demonstrating that excellent service and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
By partnering with ArcBest, you can align your shipping needs with those of a company dedicated to positively impacting the world. Contact ArcBest to learn more about our LTL solutions.
