Choosing between less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipping is one of the most common decisions in freight — and getting it right saves real money. The best choice depends on your shipment size, budget, and timeline.
What is LTL shipping?
LTL is for shipments that do not fill an entire trailer — typically 1 to 6 pallets. Your freight shares trailer space with other shippers, and you pay only for the space you use. It is cost-effective for smaller loads but involves more handling and stops.
What is FTL shipping?
FTL means your freight fills (or is dedicated to) an entire truck. It is ideal for large shipments, high-value goods, or freight that needs to move quickly with minimal handling. Because the truck goes directly from origin to destination, transit is faster and the risk of damage is lower.
How to choose
- Shipment size: under about 6 pallets, LTL usually wins on cost; more than that, compare against FTL.
- Speed: FTL is faster with fewer stops.
- Fragility: less handling in FTL means less damage risk.
- Budget: LTL lets you pay only for the space you use.
A hybrid approach
Many shippers use both, consolidating LTL freight into FTL for the long haul and breaking it back down for final delivery. A logistics partner can model the options and pick the most economical route for each lane.
Long Road Warehouse coordinates LTL, FTL, and everything in between across the Pacific Northwest. Request a quote for your next shipment.
