What's the Difference Between FTL and LTL?
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Written by: Advance Pallet
What is FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping?
As the term implies, FTL shipping (short for "full truckload") is a situation where a single customer pays for the entire space of a truck to transport their goods from "Point A" to "Point B."
This is typically used for large shipments that require, either because of volume or through logistics concerns, the entire truck all to themselves.
The major benefit here is that the customer enjoys faster delivery times. You're not sharing space with anyone else, which means that no other shipments need to be delivered, so the route itself is direct and typically non-stop. This makes FTL shipping ideal for cargo that is particularly heavy, items that need to get someplace quickly, or shipments that need to travel over long distances.
What is LTL (Less Than Truckload) Shipping?
Less Than Truckload shipping, often commonly referred to as LTL for short, is a shipping technique where multiple shipments from different customers are all condensed onto the same truck.
From the point of view of individual customers, this is ideal for situations where you may not have enough to fill a truck but still need to make sure your items get to where they're headed in one piece. This is cost-effective, because you're not paying for the entire truck - you're only paying for exactly what you need.
In terms of volume requirements, this is typically reserved for smaller shipments due to the reasons outlined above. This will unfortunately lead to slower delivery times, as the truck itself might have to make multiple stops before it gets to yours.
Key Differences Between FTL and LTL
From the point of view of clients, the major differences between FTL and LTL shipping are ones of cost and speed.
By virtue of the fact that you're paying for the use of the entire truck, FTL shipping is obviously more expensive. LTL is associated with smaller shipments, and you're only paying for the exact amount of space you're using. You don't have to worry about filling the truck, either.
Of course,
you get what you pay for - particularly in terms of speed. FTL shipping is known for being faster because there will be fewer stops. LTL shipping is slower because there are multiple stops, and a truck driver might have to pick up someone else's load before they can deliver yours.
Which Shipping Option is Best for Your Business?
So which shipping option is best for your business? Over time, you'll likely make use of both LTL and FTL shipping at different points. It all comes down to the needs of the situation. If you can take advantage of FTL shipping, you should do so - it's the best way to guarantee delivery speed, efficiency, and damage. But if you can't, LTL is always an option for those situations where it makes the most sense given what you're trying to accomplish.
If you'd like to find out more information about the major differences between FTL vs LTL shipping, or if you'd just like to
discuss your organization's own needs with a team of professionals in a bit more detail, please don't hesitate to
contact Advance Pallet today.
Advance Pallet, Inc.
600 N. Woodbury st.
South Elgin, IL 60177
Phone: 847-697-5700
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