Have you heard the terms full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) but are not sure what they mean? No worries, this blog explains the difference between LTL and FTL freight shipping so you can choose the right method for your business. We will compare cost, delivery times, handling, and when to use each option.
LTL vs FTL freight shipping
What is LTL shipping?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping is ideal for smaller loads that don’t require a full truck. Multiple shipments from different companies are combined in one truck, making it a cost-effective solution.
- Best for 1–6 pallets or under 5 loading meters
- Perfect for small businesses wanting to save money
- Maximizes truck space by combining freight from multiple shippers
What is FTL shipping?
FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is designed for large or urgent shipments. You book the entire truck, even if it’s not filled to its maximum capacity, ensuring speed and security.
- Best for 25–33 pallets
- Direct delivery from point A to B
- Less risk of damage since goods are not transferred multiple times
- Suitable for fragile or time-sensitive cargo
Key differences between LTL and FTL
| Factor | FTL (Full Truckload) | LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) |
| Definition | Single shipper, full truck | Multiple shippers, shared truck |
| Transit time | Faster, direct | Slower, multiple stops |
| Damage risk | Low, less handling | Higher, more handling |
| Cost | Higher overall, but cost-effective for large loads | Lower for small shipments |
When to Choose LTL vs FTL
There is not a strict rule for when you should use LTL or FTL. It depends on your shipment and what works best for your business. However, you could consider the following points to make a decision:
Choose FTL if
- You ship more than 6 pallets
- Your cargo is fragile or sensitive
- You need strict delivery schedules
Choose LTL if
- You ship fewer than 6 pallets
- You have flexible delivery times
- You want the most cost-effective option
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is LTL always cheaper than FTL?
Not always. LTL is usually cheaper for smaller shipments, but if you are shipping close to a full truckload, FTL can actually be more cost-effective.
How many pallets fit in a full truckload?
It depends on the size of the pallets and the truck type how many pallets fit inside. An internal trailer, with 13.6 loading meters, can hold 26 block pallets and 33 euro pallets for example.
Is LTL shipping slower than FTL?
Yes, typically. LTL shipments make multiple stops to pick up and drop off goods from different shippers, so transit times are usually longer than FTL.
Can fragile or sensitive goods be shipped via LTL?
They can, but it’s riskier because your shipment will be handled more often and share space with other goods. If your cargo is fragile or time-sensitive, FTL is usually the better choice.
Why choose MN Logistics
At MN Logistics, we provide both LTL and FTL freight shipping solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for the cost savings of LTL or the speed and security of FTL, our team ensures your shipment arrives safely and on time.
Contact MN Logistics today for tailored logistics solutions.