What is the Difference Between Long Haul and Short Haul Freight Shipping

What is the Difference Between Long Haul and Short Haul Freight Shipping

Difference Between Long Haul and Short Haul Transportation

The transportation industry offers numerous methods of delivering goods. Long haul and short haul shipping are both important and required services when it comes to fast and efficient freight delivery.

Before covering the differences between these two methods, let’s look at their definitions.

• Long haul or over the road (OTR) shipping is a transportation service that implies delivery routes that are longer than 250 miles.
• Short haul shipping is a local delivery method that doesn’t exceed a 250-mile delivery radius. Typically within 150 miles.

As for the differences, there are five of them. Some of them depend on the first one. Let’s check them out.

• Distance. The first and the main difference is the length of the route that each driver makes. For short hauls, it rarely exceeds 150 miles, while long hauls start at 250 miles.
• Equipment and operating costs. Long haul trucking requires more resources on truck maintenance, fuel, insurance, fees, and the truck itself. Short runs don’t require a fully packed semi-truck with a big trailer, and overall expenses are much smaller.
• Driving skills. For short hauls, drivers must focus on maneuvering in the city. Also, being able to handle sharp turns and narrow streets. Long haulers must know about interstate regulations and laws, best routes, and truckstops.
• Time on the road. Short haul truckers spend less time on the road and can get home every evening. Long-haul truckers can stay on the route for days or even weeks before they get home.
• Driver’s income. Long haul truckers earn much more than short haul drivers. However, their on-the-road expenses are higher (meals, showers, etc.)