Less Than Truckload (LTL) vs Full Truckload (FTL)

Types of Services available

When it comes to land freight, there are many options to choose from, including Less Than Truckload, Full Truckload, Partial Truckload, and Intermodal shipping. However, it can be quite challenging for some to decide between LTL and FTL shipping. First, you must know when such services are ideal for your shipment. 

You may opt for FTL freight shipping if your cargo is large enough to fill up the entire truck. On the other hand, if your items require less space than a trailer, go for LTL freight shipping. To understand their differences, shipping costs, and delivery times, continue reading the article below.

Less Than Truckload vs. Full Truckload - What Is the Difference?

LTL shipping refers to freight ideal for small shipments that require less space in a trailer. If your cargo only takes up a small portion of a truck, you can opt for LTL shipping, which will minimize your shipping cost. In contrast, FTL shipping, or Full Truckload freight, is for large shipments taking up entire trucks or trailers. In this type of shipping, a trailer is occupied by the commodities of a single client. Both the services offer complete security and tracking of your cargo and are cost-effective options for businesses. Use a truck shipping calculator to get a precise estimate for your freight.

What Is the Max Weight Allowed in LTL or FTL Shipping?

As discussed earlier, the LTL freight solution is best for small loads, typically weighing 100 to 10,000 pounds. In comparison, FTL freight shipping is preferred for large cargo weighing 10,000 pounds or above. So, the type of freight option you select mainly depends on the weight and size of your shipment and the space it occupies in a trailer.

FTL and LTL Delivery Times

Since FTL and LTL come under road freight, they have similar transit times. Generally, transporting shipments via land routes may take up to a week or so. However, the delivery time may elongate due to harsh weather conditions or large distances to cover. If you need to deliver urgent shipments, select a priority service.

Which Is the Cheapest Option?

It's best to have a price estimate before selecting a freight option. To calculate your shipment's price, use the Less Than Truckload Shipping Calculator, or visit the courier's website to obtain more information regarding a specific service. If you wish to avail the cheapest option out of these two, LTL is considered a far more cost-effective choice than FTL as you don't have to pay the price for the whole trailer. Instead, the shipping cost depends on your cargo's space in a truck.

Which Is the Fastest Option?

If budget is not an issue for you and you need to ship out cargo immediately, FTL is ideal. This is because you have paid for the entire truck and the only shipping destination is for your shipment. In contrast, LTL freight shipping may take longer to deliver your shipment as it will have to drop off other cargo. So, even if your goods do not require a whole trailer, it's preferable to choose FTL for quick delivery of items.

Sum Up - Which to Pick?

In the end, the decision is entirely yours. We have provided the necessary information to make a wise selection between FTL and LTL shipping. Now, it's up to you to select a freight type that best meets your shipping requirements!