Turning empty space into environmental savings
The trucks that keep goods moving also leave a mark on the environment. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that the transportation sector is the largest contributor to U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
One way to help limit the impact is to rethink how freight moves. By combining shipments from multiple businesses, less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping puts fewer trucks on the road — lowering fuel use and emissions for every load. It’s a simple shift with benefits for the planet and your bottom line.
How LTL makes a difference
With LTL, many different shipments share the same trailer. Think of it like carpooling, but for freight.
Optimized network
Instead of sending a half-empty truck across the country, LTL shipping operates on a hub-and-spoke network model, where freight from multiple shippers is consolidated into shared trailers and distributed through regional service centers. 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.
Reduced empty miles and fuel usage
Because many shipments are consolidated into a single trailer, fewer trucks are on the road, making fewer trips. But how much does that really matter? The EPA’s SmartWay Transport Partnership reports that eliminating just 15% of a truck’s empty miles (distance traveled without cargo) could save $3,000 in fuel and 24 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.
What ArcBest is doing to make LTL more sustainable
On-time, secure delivery is important, and so is reducing the environmental footprint of every shipment. That’s why we focus on environmental impact throughout our operations, including our LTL network.
Fleet modernization
We continue to invest in newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles. In 2024, ArcBest added alternative fuel vehicles to our fleet, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality in the communities we serve.
Energy-efficient service centers
Our ArcBest campuses and ABF Freight® LTL service centers are conserving resources through LED lighting upgrades, HVAC improvements and water-efficient plumbing. These changes reduce energy consumption and support our long-term goal of minimizing environmental impact across our facilities.
Data-driven improvements
We’re focused on ensuring our sustainability efforts are transparent, accountable and impactful. We disclose our Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions annually.
Purposeful connections
Because we know that sustainability extends beyond our own operations, ArcBest works with vendors and suppliers who uphold our values outlined in our Supplier Code of Conduct, including focusing on environmental stewardship. By working together to support our shared sustainability goals, we strengthen our LTL network’s ability to deliver freight more sustainably with a cleaner, more resilient supply chain from end to end.
Partnering with you for a cleaner future
ArcBest’s LTL solutions are designed to deliver both environmental and operational value so you can reduce your carbon footprint while also driving your business forward. If you're looking for a logistics partner that aligns with your sustainability goals, ArcBest is here to help. Explore our LTL solutions to learn more.
