LTL Shipping Success: Why Your Carriers Expect Real-time Data

In the world of Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping, data is the key to success—not just for shippers but for carriers as well. The more accurate and timely information carriers receive, the better they can plan their lanes, optimize their operations, and ultimately deliver shipments on time.

Shippers who embrace this data-driven approach are already seeing significant benefits, from stronger carrier relationships to lower shipping costs. And thanks to seamless API integrations through a Transportation Management System (TMS) like MyCarrier, sharing this data is easier than ever.

Why Carriers Prioritize “Connected” Shippers

LTL carriers prioritize shippers who provide them with real-time, accurate shipment data. In fact, many carriers have started grading shippers on their ability to share early and accurate information, awarding the best-performing businesses with "Shipper of Choice" status.

When carriers receive clean, real-time data, they can:

• Plan lanes more efficiently – leading to faster transit times and fewer delays.
• Optimize capacity – ensuring their trucks are fully loaded and operating at peak efficiency.
• Reduce errors and exceptions – minimizing re-weighs, misroutes, and delivery failures.

The Business Case for Data-Driven Shipping

Shippers who leverage API-connected TMS platforms like MyCarrier aren’t just making life easier for their carriers—they’re also setting themselves up for long-term success.

• Better Carrier Relationships – Providing accurate data builds trust, leading to better service and improved contract negotiations.
• More Competitive Shipping Rates – Carriers want to work with data-driven shippers because it reduces their operational costs. This often results in better rate negotiations and priority placement on routes.
• Seamless Shipping Operations – A direct API connection provides live rates, instant dispatch with auto-generated PRO numbers, bills of lading (BOLs), labels, real-time tracking, and fast, accurate invoicing.

Financial Visibility and Invoice Accuracy

One of the biggest advantages for LTL shippers using a connected TMS is the ability to receive invoices quickly and accurately, allowing them to project financial outlooks with confidence. This is a game-changer for Accounts Payable teams and the entire business, ensuring cash flow remains predictable and transparent. It's also a big plus for carriers since it allows for faster payment times and fewer future disputes. 

Beyond just receiving invoices early, MyCarrier’s MyInvoiceHub streamlines financial operations by enabling shippers to:

• View all freight bills in one place – no more digging through emails or portals.
• Easily access invoice history – improving financial tracking and forecasting.
• Instantly identify discrepancies – avoiding costly overcharges.
• Quickly send disputes with all necessary documentation – speeding up resolution times.

Studies show the average freight bill error rate in the industry is 15%, meaning businesses risk overspending if invoices aren’t audited properly. With MyCarrier, shippers get full visibility from quote to invoice, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and a healthier bottom line. Instead of manually comparing freight bills with BOLs and dealing with spreadsheets, automation takes over—saving time and eliminating costly errors.

Win-Win for Shippers and Carriers

By leveraging a TMS with seamless carrier API integrations, shippers can provide their carriers with the right data at the right time—boosting efficiency and ensuring on-time, accurate deliveries.
That’s why top LTL carriers partner with MyCarrier—because when shippers and carriers are connected, everyone wins.

Are you ready to become a "Shipper of Choice" and streamline your LTL shipping operations? Let’s talk about how MyCarrier can help your business thrive.