Full Truckload vs. LTL: 5 Key Differences
Full truckload (FTL) shipping is one of the most common freight hauling methods. It involves reserving an entire trailer for your goods. The alternative method, known as less-than-truckload (LTL), allows you to reserve a portion of a trailer.
LTL shipping gives you just enough volume for your freight, while other clients’ cargo occupies the rest of the trailer. Here’s a breakdown of the five main differences between full truckload and less-than-truckload shipping so you can decide when to use each hauling method:
1. Cost
Reserving an entire truck and trailer for your shipment can be quite expensive. However, your per-unit costs may be lower if you have a large enough shipment to fill the whole trailer. FTL rates may be more predictable since they are not as dependent on freight class and density.
Less-than-truckload can be more budget-friendly for smaller shipments, as you only pay for the portion of the truck you need. The pricing model used in LTL is more complex than that.
Your rates will be impacted by factors like freight class, weight, distance, and any additional services you require, such as liftgate or inside delivery. Keep these variables in mind so you can obtain an accurate cost estimation.
2. Shipment Size and Volume
Full truckload shipping is designed for large shipments that can fill an entire truck. If your freight takes up most of the trailer space or you have high-volume shipments, FTL is the way to go. This method ensures your goods are the only ones in the truck.
Consider the LTL method for smaller shipments that don’t require a whole truck. Multiple shipments from different businesses are consolidated into one truck, sharing the available space. This is cost-effective for companies that have smaller loads or need to ship frequently without filling a whole truck.
3. Transit Time
A full truckload shipment can generally offer faster transit times because the driver will pick up your load and haul it straight to its final destination. Their trailer is full, meaning they don’t have any room to add other freight to the load.
Less-than-truckload shipments typically take longer to reach their destinations due to the consolidation process. The driver will have to make multiple stops for loading and unloading, which can add several days to the delivery window. This makes LTL less suitable for urgent deliveries but still a viable option for less time-sensitive freight.
Top logistics providers factor the added transit times into their delivery estimates, so you should still have a good approximation of when your goods will arrive. Compare estimated delivery dates and see whether the quoted windows work for you and your clients.
4. Risk and Handling
Full truckload shipments occupy the entire truck, which means they will be handled less. Your freight will be loaded once and unloaded once. Minimizing handling reduces the risk of damage or product loss. As a result, FTL can be safer overall for fragile or high-value goods.
Less-than-truckload shipments involve more handling, as drivers must load and unload cargo multiple times at different terminals. This increases the risk of damage and loss. Make sure you properly package your freight before it gets picked up, especially when using LTL hauling.
5. Flexibility
Full truckload hauling offers more flexibility in terms of scheduling and route optimization. The truck will be dedicated to your load, giving you the freedom to range for specific pickup and delivery times. However, finding a truck available can be challenging during peak seasons or in high-demand areas.
LTL offers plenty of flexibility as well. If you have a smaller shipment, an LTL provider can usually find a place for your cargo on one of its trucks. However, you might not have as much control over delivery and pickup times.
Weigh Your Options With a Quote From R2 Logistics
FTL and LTL hauling methods each provide some unique benefits. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of these freight shipping strategies to identify what method works best based on your company’s current needs. Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can simplify the process of shopping rates and comparing LTL vs. FTL.
R2 Logistics is a leading third-party logistics provider. If you’d like to compare the costs and benefits of full truckload vs. LTL shipping, contact our team for a complimentary quote.
