LTL freight moves through complex terminal networks, which creates more touchpoints, more variables, and more opportunities for delays. That’s why accurate LTL tracking is essential for inventory planning, customer communication, and proactive exception management. Modern LTL tracking tools now give shippers clearer visibility across these networks, helping teams respond to delays before they affect production or delivery schedules.
LTL tracking is powered by various technology systems integrated by carriers, facilities, and shippers. It allows all parties to follow freight throughout the entire carrier network. Because LTL shipments move through multiple terminals, you may see gaps between scan events. This is normal in LTL networks, but modern API-driven tracking reduces these visibility gaps by updating status directly from carrier systems in near real time.
A PRO number is a tracking ID assigned by LTL carriers once a shipment enters their system. This unique number is connected to every scan event during transportation through terminals, facilities, and delivery routes. Shippers can use the PRO numbers to check status updates, delays, and other information.
As PRO numbers are carrier-issued, they are the most reliable and consistent tracking tool in LTL shipping. A PRO number is created by the carrier at pickup. Some carriers send it electronically to the shipper, while others provide it on the pickup receipt. Many large carriers use 9–10 digit formats, while regional carriers may use alphanumeric versions.
A bill of lading (BOL) number is a powerful tracking reference generated by the shipper. Since it’s not carrier-issued, it’s not a primary tracking method for carriers. Instead, they prefer to use a PRO number.
A BOL number is the link between details like shipper name, consignee, freight class, weight, and NMFC code. While carriers don’t track shipments by BOL internally, most carrier portals allow shippers to search by BOL so the system can return the corresponding PRO number.
Think of the BOL as the reference that helps you find your PRO. Shippers with high volumes and those who use the services of multiple carriers simultaneously, BOL data is a great way to track LTL shipments.
Some visibility platforms use machine learning to predict delays based on weather, congestion, terminal dwell times, and historical carrier performance. By combining technologies like barcode scanners, GPS-enabled equipment, and data feeds from carrier systems, shippers can get excellent real-time LTL tracking.
Each scan generates a timestamped update. It indicates where the freight is within the network. With the help of modern tracking platforms and their tools for visibility and predictive ETAs, shippers can get notifications if delays or reroutes occur. Logistics teams can respond proactively and adjust their inventory thanks to accurate real-time updates.
Optimizing LTL tracking is done by combining innovative technology, good communication, and proactive management. Let’s examine some of the LTL tracking best practices.
A strong LTL visibility strategy starts with integrating a modern TMS system like ShipperGuide. Integration of digital freight platforms or carrier APIs can also be used. These systems pull updates automatically, help eliminate manual checks, and reduce the risk of missing important status changes. TMS solutions also have powerful analytics capabilities and help track performance trends.
Clear communication with both carriers and internal teams enhances accuracy. Shippers need to share proper dimension details, freight class, packaging, and accessorial needs. This reduces the chance of delays or bottlenecks. Thanks to consistent and clear communication, shipper-carrier relations are improved, and all parties are aligned on timing. Providing accurate dimensions avoids reclassification delays and unexpected fees that slow down transit.
It's crucial to set alerts, identify exceptions, and follow up with carriers if shipments appear delayed. These are just a few examples of proactive shipment monitoring. They can help shippers mitigate issues before they disrupt production or delivery windows. Thanks to proactive measures, organizations can strengthen service levels and make supply chains more resilient.
Carrier-specific LTL tracking portals vary widely in features. Most major carriers offer online dashboards where shippers can track freight by PRO or BOL numbers. These platforms offer visibility over transit milestones, status updates, and other details. Generally speaking, large national carriers offer more information and a wider array of tracking tools compared to regional ones.
Popular LTL tracking portals:
If you wish to know how to track LTL shipments and navigate multi-carrier networks, check out our answers to commonly asked questions regarding LTL tracking.
Organizations can track LTL shipments by entering the PRO number or another type of ID into the carrier’s tracking portal or an integrated TMS. Most carriers update statuses automatically as freight moves. A centralized dashboard helps shippers monitor freight across multiple LTL providers.
Popular LTL tracking tools include transportation management systems (like ShipperGuide), visibility platforms like project44, and digital freight portals. Thanks to these tools, shippers can check real-time updates, ETAs, and other useful information.
Thanks to ShipperGuide, companies can gain access to excellent visibility tools and monitor every LTL shipment in one place. Instead of switching between carrier portals, integrate a reliable software that also has various features related to predictive tracking and automation. Schedule a demo and see how ShipperGuide can make LTL tracking hassle-free.