FTL vs. LTL Shipping: Which is Right for Your Business?
When shipping goods, businesses often choose between Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL)shipping. Both methods have distinct advantages depending on the shipment’s size, urgency, and cost. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences:
What is FTL Shipping?
FTL involves using the entire truck for your shipment, meaning your goods are the only cargo in the truck. The truck travels directly from the pick-up point to the destination, with no stops for other shipments.
- Best for: Large shipments (5,000–45,000 lbs) that require the full truck space.
- Benefits: Faster delivery, fewer stops, and more security as only your goods are on the truck.
- Cost: Fixed pricing based on truck capacity and distance.
What is LTL Shipping?
LTL means sharing a truck with other shippers, which helps reduce costs for smaller shipments. Your goods will be consolidated with others and may stop at multiple terminals during transit.
- Best for: Smaller shipments (150–15,000 lbs) that don’t need a full truck.
- Benefits: More affordable, flexible, and environmentally friendly.
- Cost: Pricing is based on weight, dimensions, and freight class, with additional costs for services like liftgates or expedited shipping.
Key Differences
| Feature | FTL (Full Truckload) | LTL (Less Than Truckload) |
| Truck Space | Exclusive to your shipment. | Shared with other shipments. |
| Shipment Size | Large shipments (5,000–45,000 lbs). | Smaller shipments (150–15,000 lbs). |
| Transit Time | Direct route, faster delivery. | Longer delivery times, multiple stops. |
| Pricing | Fixed, based on truck capacity. | Variable, based on weight and size. |
When to Choose FTL or LTL?
- Choose FTL: For large shipments needing direct, fast delivery.
- Choose LTL: For smaller shipments that can share truck space and have more flexibility in delivery times.
ConclusionThe right choice depends on your shipment’s size, urgency, and cost. FTL is ideal for large, time-sensitive shipments, while LTL is perfect for smaller, more cost-effective deliveries. At LTL Freights, we can help you determine the best option for your business—contact us today!
