What is the difference between LTL and FTL shipping?
Full Truckload (FTL) shipping is a logistics solution where an entire truck is loaded with only one shipper’s cargo. It’s usually the go-to option for large shipments that weigh around 20,000 pounds or more.
The key advantage of FTL logistics is its direct, point-to-point model. FTL truck load carriers travel from the pickup point straight to the delivery destination, without any stops in between. Your FTL shipment will remain on the same truck throughout its journey, minimizing delivery time and risk of damage.
On the flip side, Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is designed for smaller shipments that don’t need an entire truck. Such consignments typically weigh between 100 and 5,000 pounds
With LTL shipping, freight from various shippers is consolidated onto the same trailer, with each one paying only for the space they occupy. This is more cost-efficient than FTL, but delivery may take longer due to multiple stops and transfers. Goods in your shipment may be removed from the trailer to allow for removal of other shipper’s goods, or they may be transferred to another truck at the carrier’s hub location.