Full Truck Load (FTL) shipping is a freight transportation method where an entire truck is dedicated to a single shipment. This means that the truck carries goods for one customer only, without sharing space with other shipments.
Key Features of FTL Shipping
✅ Exclusive Use of a Truck – The entire vehicle is reserved for one shipment, reducing delays.
✅ Faster Delivery – Since the truck moves directly from the pickup location to the destination, transit times are shorter.
✅ Less Handling – With fewer touchpoints, the risk of damage or loss is minimized.
✅ Cost-Effective for Large Shipments – When you have enough freight to fill a truck, FTL is often the best value.
When to Use FTL Shipping?
🔹 Large Shipments – Typically for freight over 10 pallets or weighing more than 15,000 lbs.
🔹 Urgent Deliveries – If time is critical, FTL ensures direct and faster transport.
🔹 High-Value or Fragile Goods – Less handling means lower risk of damage.
🔹 Dedicated Loads – If your cargo needs specific handling requirements (e.g., refrigerated goods).
Advantages of FTL Shipping
✔ Speed: No unnecessary stops, resulting in quicker transit times.
✔ Security: Your goods aren’t mixed with other shipments, reducing the chance of damage or misplacement.
✔ Efficiency: Best for businesses that move bulk shipments regularly.
Disadvantages of FTL Shipping
❌ Higher Cost for Small Loads: If your shipment doesn’t fill the truck, you might pay for unused space.
❌ Less Flexible for Small Businesses: LTL (Less Than Truckload) may be a better fit for smaller shipments.
FTL vs. LTL: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | FTL (Full Truck Load) | LTL (Less Than Truckload) |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment Size | Large (10+ pallets) | Small to medium (1-10 pallets) |
| Speed | Faster (direct route) | Slower (multiple stops) |
| Handling | Minimal | Higher risk of damage due to multiple stops |
| Cost | Higher (but better for bulk loads) | Lower (cost shared among multiple shipments) |
Is FTL Right for You?
Choose FTL shipping if you need:
✅ A fast and direct delivery.
✅ A full truckload of goods (or close to it).
✅ Secure transportation with minimal handling.
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