In a move to improve shipping options for suppliers shipping inbound to Amazon fulfillment facilities, Amazon Freight launched a less-than-truckload service.

The LTL service, in addition to its existing full-truckload service, means suppliers that sell through Amazon’s eCommerce platform have more flexibility with inbound shipping options.

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“It’s a cost-effective way to get your smaller loads to Amazon facilities without sacrificing reliability,” Amazon officials said about the LTL service, which allows suppliers to book a portion of a trailer rather an a full-truckload.

Amazon’s freight network includes about 60,000 trailers, thousands of lanes coast-to-coast and tech capabilities, such as an online self-service portal. The portal allows suppliers to get quotes for shipments 14 days out, compare FTL and LTL options side-by-side, track load status and manage shipments and payments.

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Will Amazon Freight’s LTL service expand beyond suppliers shipping inbound? It’s unclear, but Amazon officials said: “We are constantly evaluating our lanes and services to meet shippers’ changing needs.”

Recent reports also suggest Amazon is considering expanding its U.S. warehouse network with new logistics facilities, focusing on delivery hubs and automated fulfillment centers.

Lead photo: Amazon Freight