When shipping freight, businesses typically choose between Full Truck Load (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL). Understanding the differences between these two options can help optimize cost, efficiency, and delivery speed.
What is Full Truck Load (FTL) Shipping?
FTL shipping means the entire truck is dedicated to one shipment. This option is best when:
✅ You have enough goods to fill a full truck (usually 10+ pallets or 15,000+ lbs).
✅ You need faster delivery, as FTL shipments go directly from the pickup to the destination.
✅ You want to reduce handling and lower the risk of damage.
Pros of FTL:
✔ Faster transit time (no multiple stops).
✔ Lower risk of damage since freight is not handled at multiple terminals.
✔ More cost-effective for large shipments.
Cons of FTL:
❌ More expensive if you’re not shipping a full truckload.
❌ Limited flexibility for smaller shipments.
What is Less Than Truckload (LTL) Shipping?
LTL shipping combines shipments from multiple businesses into one truck. This is ideal when:
✅ Your freight is smaller (1-10 pallets or under 15,000 lbs).
✅ You want to save money by sharing truck space with other shippers.
✅ You don’t require urgent delivery, as LTL shipments make multiple stops.
Pros of LTL:
✔ More affordable for small and medium shipments.
✔ Greater flexibility with smaller loads.
✔ Environmentally friendly, as trucks are used efficiently.
Cons of LTL:
❌ Longer delivery times due to multiple stops.
❌ Increased risk of damage with multiple handling points.
FTL vs. LTL: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | FTL (Full Truck Load) | LTL (Less Than Truckload) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher (for full use) | Lower (shared cost) |
| Speed | Faster (direct delivery) | Slower (multiple stops) |
| Handling | Less handling (lower risk) | More handling (higher risk) |
| Shipment Size | Large loads (10+ pallets) | Small to medium loads (1-10 pallets) |
| Best for | High-priority or fragile freight | Cost-saving for smaller shipments |
Which Shipping Method Should You Choose?
- Choose FTL if: You have a large shipment, need fast delivery, or are shipping fragile/high-value goods.
- Choose LTL if: You have a smaller shipment, want to save money, and can afford longer transit times.
