Is It Cheaper to Ship a Full Truckload?

Dina Youssef

Visual comparison of FTL and LTL freight options, highlighting the truck sizes and capacities.

Is It Cheaper to Ship a Full Truck Load?

Shipping goods efficiently and cost-effectively is critical for businesses, and choosing the right shipping method can save both time and money. Two common options in freight shipping are Full TruckLoad (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) services. While both methods serve specific purposes, understanding the differences between them can help determine when it’s more affordable and practical to choose a full truck load for your shipment.

At Stellar Logistix, we know that optimizing your shipping strategy is essential for meeting your business goals. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between FTL and LTL, their costs, advantages, and disadvantages, and help answer the key question: is it cheaper to ship a full truck load?

What Is Full TruckLoad (FTL)?

Full Truck Load (FTL) is a freight shipping option where an entire truck is dedicated to a single shipment or customer. This method is ideal for large shipments that require the full capacity of the truck. It is also the preferred choice for shipments that need to be transported directly from origin to destination without multiple stops or transfers.

Comparison of FTL and LTL load specifications showing FTL allows up to 26 non-stackable or 52 stackable pallets, while LTL allows up to 3 non-stackable or 6 stackable pallets with a maximum weight of 10,000 lbs and a length of 12 feet.

Key Characteristics of FTL

Capacity: Up to 26 non-stackable pallets or 52 stackable pallets.
Weight Limit: Maximum weight of approximately 44,000 pounds (21.7 tons).
Truck Types:
- Dry Vans: Best for goods that need protection from external elements.
- Flatbeds: Ideal for oversized or irregularly shaped items.
- Reefers: Temperature-controlled trucks for perishable goods.

What Is Less Than Truckload (LTL)?

Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is designed for smaller shipments that do not require the full capacity of a truck. In this model, shipments from multiple customers are consolidated into one truck. Each customer pays for the space and weight their cargo occupies, making LTL a cost-effective solution for smaller loads.

Key Characteristics of LTL

Capacity: Typically handles 1–6 pallets of standard sizes.
Weight Limit: Maximum of around 10,000 pounds (4.5 tons).
Shared Space: Multiple shipments from different customers are combined into one truck.

FTL vs. LTL: Key Differences

To decide whether a full truck load or less than truckload service is right for you, consider the following factors:

1. Shipment Size

FTL: Best suited for large, high-volume shipments that can fill an entire truck.
LTL: Ideal for small to medium shipments that don’t require full truck capacity.

2. Transit Time

FTL: Faster transit times as the truck moves directly from point A to point B without stops.
LTL: Longer transit times due to multiple stops for loading and unloading at various destinations.

3. Cost

FTL: Cost-effective for large shipments since the price covers the entire truck and eliminates the need to share space or resources.
LTL: Cheaper for smaller shipments because costs are shared among multiple customers.

4. Handling

FTL: Minimal handling reduces the risk of damage, making it ideal for fragile or sensitive goods.
LTL: Involves multiple handling points, which can increase the risk of damage or loss.

Cost comparison between FTL and LTL freight, showing FTL is cost-effective for large loads and LTL is suitable for small loads.

When Is Full Truck Load Cheaper?

Shipping a full truck load can be cheaper in specific scenarios, even though it may seem like an expensive option upfront. Here are situations where FTL is more cost-effective:

1. Large Shipments

If your cargo fills most or all of a truck’s capacity, FTL is typically the more economical choice. Paying for the entire truck eliminates the need for shared costs and complex pricing structures associated with LTL.

2. High-Value or Fragile Goods

For shipments that require special handling or minimal transit stops, FTL reduces the risk of damage and additional costs associated with lost or broken items.

3. Time-Sensitive Deliveries

FTL is faster, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments. Eliminating the need for multiple stops ensures your goods arrive on schedule, potentially saving costs related to delays.

4. Specific Routes

Certain lanes or routes may make FTL a better value, especially when shipping long distances. Combining this with a backhaul (return trip) can further reduce costs.

When Is Less Than Truckload Cheaper?

For smaller shipments, LTL is often the cheaper option. Here are examples where LTL makes the most sense:

1. Small Shipments

When your cargo is too small to fill an entire truck, sharing space and costs with other customers makes LTL a more affordable choice.

2. Flexible Transit Times

If your delivery timeline is less urgent, the slower transit times of LTL are often worth the cost savings.

3. Regular, Smaller Loads

For businesses that ship smaller quantities regularly, LTL provides a cost-effective way to meet shipping needs without paying for unused truck space.

Advantages and Disadvantages of FTL and LTL

Advantages of FTL

Faster transit times.
Minimal handling, reducing risk of damage.
Ideal for high-volume shipments or sensitive goods.
Simplifies logistics with direct shipping routes.

Disadvantages of FTL

Higher upfront cost for small or medium shipments.
May result in unused capacity if the truck is not fully loaded.

Advantages of LTL

Cost-effective for smaller shipments.
Flexible pricing based on weight, size, and distance.
Environmentally friendly by consolidating shipments.

Disadvantages of LTL

Longer transit times due to multiple stops.
Increased handling, which can lead to a higher risk of damage.
Complex pricing structures.

How to Decide Between FTL and LTL

Choosing between FTL and LTL depends on your specific shipping needs. Consider the following factors:

1. Shipment Volume

Use FTL for large, high-volume shipments.
Use LTL for small to medium shipments.

2. Time Sensitivity

Choose FTL for urgent deliveries.
Choose LTL if delivery timelines are flexible.

3. Cargo Sensitivity

FTL is better for fragile or high-value goods.
LTL is suitable for less delicate shipments.

4. Budget

FTL is cost-effective for large shipments.
LTL is budget-friendly for smaller loads.

How Stellar Logistix Helps You Optimize Freight Shipping

At Stellar Logistix, we understand that choosing the right shipping method is crucial for your business. Our logistics experts work with you to analyze your shipping needs and recommend the most cost-effective solution—whether it’s full truck load or less than truckload.

Our Services Include

Custom Freight Solutions: Tailored strategies to maximize efficiency.
Real-Time Tracking: Stay updated on your shipments at every step.
Sustainability Initiatives: Reduce environmental impact with eco-friendly options.
Experienced Team: Our experts help you navigate complex shipping scenarios.

Final Thoughts: Is Full TruckLoad Cheaper?

The cost-effectiveness of full truckload shipping depends on the size and nature of your shipment. For large, time-sensitive, or fragile goods, FTL often proves to be the better choice. However, for smaller or less urgent shipments, LTL offers an affordable and flexible alternative.

By understanding your freight needs and working with a trusted partner like Stellar Logistix, you can make informed decisions that optimize your shipping costs and ensure timely delivery.

Ready to optimize your freight shipping? Visit Stellar Logistix Services to learn more about our FTL and LTL options or contact us today for a personalized quote!