LTL vs Full Truckload
Choosing the right shipping mode based on your freight size, budget, and timeline
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | LTL | Truckload |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 150 - 20,000 lbs (dry freight) | 30,000 - 45,000 lbs |
| Linear Feet | 1 - 28 linear feet (dry freight) | 32+ linear feet (full trailer) |
| Cost Structure | Based on weight, class, distance | Flat rate per load |
| Transit Time | 2-7 days (terminal transfers) | 1-5 days (direct) |
| Handling | Multiple touches at terminals | Single touch (pickup to delivery) |
| Multi-Stop | Not supported | Supported with extra stops |
LTL carriers consolidate shipments from multiple customers onto one truck. Ideal for smaller shipments that don't require full trailer capacity.
Pros
- Pay only for space used
- Cost-effective for smaller shipments
- Established carrier networks
- Regular pickup schedules
- Accessorial services included
Cons
- Multiple handling points
- Longer transit times
- Freight class affects cost
- Potential for delays
- Weight and size limits
Specifications
- Weight Limit:
- 150 - 20,000 lbs (dry freight)
- Space Limit:
- 1 - 28 linear feet (dry freight)
- Transit Time:
- 2-7 business days
- Handling:
- 2-5 touches typical
- Pricing:
- Per hundredweight (CWT)
Full truckload dedicates an entire trailer to your shipment. The truck goes directly from origin to destination without stops or consolidation.
Pros
- Fastest transit times
- No handling between pickup and delivery
- Lowest damage risk
- No freight class needed
- Predictable scheduling
Cons
- Higher cost for small shipments
- Must fill or pay for full trailer
- Less scheduling flexibility
- Driver hour limitations
- Capacity varies by market
Specifications
- Weight Range:
- 30,000 - 45,000 lbs
- Space:
- Full trailer (32+ linear feet)
- Transit Time:
- 1-5 business days
- Handling:
- 1 touch (direct)
- Pricing:
- Per mile + fuel
When to Choose Each Option
- Dry freight up to 20,000 lbs
- Shipment fits in 28 linear feet or less
- Budget is primary concern
- Regular recurring shipments
- Need accessorials (liftgate, inside delivery)
- Flexible on delivery timing
- Freight exceeds 30,000 lbs
- Need more than 32 linear feet
- Time-sensitive delivery
- High-value or fragile freight
- Want to minimize handling
- Need specific delivery appointment
Cost Comparison
LTL, including volume LTL, is best up to 20,000 lbs / 28 linear feet of dry freight; consider partial (28-32 LF) before jumping to full truckload.
There's a middle ground: partial truckload handles 28-32 linear feet and 20,000-30,000 lbs of dry freight. If your shipment exceeds LTL limits but doesn't need a full truck, partial is usually more economical than paying for unused trailer space.
Frequently Asked Questions
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