Weight Break
Also known as: Weight Bracket, Rate Break, Weight Tier
Definition
A weight break is a point in a carrier’s pricing structure where the per-pound rate decreases. As shipments get heavier, they typically qualify for progressively lower rates per pound, making it sometimes cheaper to ship a slightly heavier package to hit the next break.
How Weight Breaks Work
Example LTL rate structure:
| Weight Range | Rate per CWT |
|---|---|
| 0-499 lbs | $45.00 |
| 500-999 lbs | $38.00 |
| 1,000-1,999 lbs | $32.00 |
| 2,000-4,999 lbs | $28.00 |
| 5,000+ lbs | $24.00 |
Weight Break Optimization
Sometimes bumping up to the next break saves money:
Actual: 480 lbs at $45/CWT = $216 At break: 500 lbs at $38/CWT = $190
Even though you’d pay for 20 more pounds, hitting the break saves $26!
Where Weight Breaks Apply
LTL Freight
- Most common use of weight breaks
- Breaks at 500, 1000, 2000, 5000+ lbs
- Significant rate differences between tiers
Parcel
- Less dramatic but still present
- Often built into zone-weight matrix
- Volume-based breaks more common
Air Freight
- Weight breaks for chargeable weight
- Different breaks for different routes
Carrier Weight Break Strategies
| Approach | Description |
|---|---|
| Bump up | Ship more to hit lower rate |
| Consolidate | Combine shipments to hit breaks |
| Negotiate | Customize breaks for your volume |
| Rate shop | Compare carriers at different weights |
Bumping Up Considerations
Before bumping to hit a break:
- Calculate actual savings
- Consider added weight’s impact
- Check handling implications
- Verify carrier allows it
- Don’t add weight you don’t need
Weight Breaks in Contracts
When negotiating:
- Discuss custom break points
- Negotiate lower rates at each tier
- Consider volume-based breaks
- Review competitor rate structures
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