Line Haul Shipping: The Middle Mile Every Ecommerce Brand Should Optimize

/ Product Fulfillment Solutions Resources / By

Author: Jason Martin

Reviewed by: Chief Operations Officer, Product Fulfillment Solutions
Last updated: January 28, 2026

Executive TLDR

Line haul shipping is the “middle mile” of ecommerce fulfillment, moving bulk inventory efficiently between hubs. Optimizing line haul reduces costs, shortens transit times, and lays the foundation for fast delivery.

This article explains what line haul is, its role in the supply chain, the benefits for ecommerce brands, and how a 3PL like PFS can implement it effectively.

If your middle-mile operations are causing delays or unpredictability,
Contact Product Fulfillment Solutions.

Table of contents

When Line Haul Matters for Ecommerce

Line haul becomes critical when brands need predictable delivery speed across multiple regions. If inventory is scattered or shipments rely solely on last-mile carriers, customers experience delays and fulfillment costs spike.

Middle-mile efficiency is especially impactful when:

  • Multiple fulfillment centers service regional demand
  • High-volume SKUs require frequent replenishment
  • 2-day or same-day delivery is part of the customer promise

Story: How Wholesome Goods Optimized Line Haul

Before

Wholesome Goods struggled with slow, inconsistent shipments. Orders took 5–6 days, customer complaints increased, and labor costs for rush orders soared.

Pain points

  • Uncoordinated bulk shipments between warehouses
  • Unpredictable transit times and missed delivery windows
  • High last-minute shipping costs

The shift

After partnering with PFS, Wholesome Goods implemented scheduled line haul routes between hubs and regional fulfillment centers. Bulk shipments were consolidated, reducing per-unit costs and improving predictability. Transit times fell to 3 days, supporting faster, reliable customer delivery.

What Is Line Haul Shipping?

Line haul shipping is the transportation of goods in bulk between major distribution hubs or fulfillment centers. It is the “middle mile” of ecommerce logistics, distinct from last-mile delivery.

Key points:

  • Focuses on efficiency, volume, and consistent scheduling
  • Reduces per-unit shipping costs through consolidation
  • Supports predictable inventory replenishment and faster overall fulfillment

It is complementary to last-mile and LTL shipping, forming the backbone of a reliable, scalable fulfillment network.

5 Benefits of Line Haul for Ecommerce

1. Cost efficiency and scheduling predictability

Consolidated shipments reduce shipping costs while predictable routes eliminate last-minute premium fees. Brands can better plan inventory and labor, improving margins.

2. Faster transit across fulfillment nodes

By connecting multiple hubs, line haul reduces distance to end customers. Strategically placed inventory speeds delivery without needing local overstock.

3. Reliable bulk transport

Dedicated routes decrease handling and risk of damage. Managers can forecast arrivals and allocate labor effectively.

4. Flexible modes of transportation

Trucks, rail, air, and intermodal options allow brands to optimize speed and cost per shipment, especially during peak seasons.

5. Supports 2-day delivery and customer satisfaction

Efficient middle-mile shipping ensures fast, consistent delivery, building trust, reducing service issues, and increasing repeat purchases.

How a 3PL Supports Line Haul Optimization

A 3PL like PFS designs middle-mile systems to maximize speed, cost efficiency, and reliability.

Talk to an Expert

 

Line Haul Shipping FAQs

Is line haul the same as last-mile shipping?

No. Line haul moves bulk goods between hubs. Last-mile delivers to the customer.

Does line haul reduce shipping costs?

Yes, consolidated bulk transport lowers per-unit cost and improves predictability.

Can line haul support 2-day delivery?

Absolutely. Efficient middle-mile movement enables faster downstream fulfillment.

Do I need a 3PL to manage line haul?

While possible internally, a 3PL like PFS provides the systems, expertise, and carrier relationships to scale efficiently.