4 Key Difference Between LTL and FTL: Pros and Cons LTL & FTL

LTL and FTL Explained

Shipping is an essential component of any business that includes the movement of goods from one point to another. The shipping process, whether for importing raw materials or exporting finished goods, must be efficient and cost-effective. LTL (Less Than Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload) shipping are two prominent shipping techniques.

LTL is a shipping technique in which several shipments from various companies are pooled and transported in a single truck. Because the expense is shared by numerous organisations, this is a cost-effective option to deliver smaller shipments. LTL shipments typically weigh between 150 to 10,000 pounds, and the pricing is determined by the shipment’s weight, size, and distance.

FTL, on the other hand, is a shipping method where the entire truck is dedicated to one shipment. This is typically used for larger shipments that weigh more than 10,000 pounds. FTL shipments are usually more expensive than LTL shipments because the entire truck is dedicated to one shipment.

Also Read: What is LTL Shipping, Benefits of LTL and How it Works?

Difference Between LTL and FTL

There are many differences between the two types of shipments. However, the main points can be broken into four main differences. These are:

Size

Whenever talking about shipments, the first thing that you must take into account is the size of your freight. The terms, Less-than-truckload and Full-Truckload are self-explanatory. They stand for exactly what they say. LTL shipments refer to the smaller shipments and typically weigh around 100 to 5,000 pounds. It is natural that these small freights will not take up the entire space available inside a truck, thus, leaving space behind for other freights as well.

FTL, on the other hand, are much larger and will take up the entire truck. These typically weigh around 20,000 pounds or even more than that. The shipments lying between the range of 5,000 to 10,00 pounds can be moved by either LTL or FTL. In case they are being moved by LTL, these are referred to as “volume LTL” shipments; and when they move FTL, they are called as “partial TL” shipments.

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Cost

It is no secret that LTL shipments are cheaper. This is because these shipments are smaller and require less space, thus, leaving room for other freights. Therefore, you only need to pay for the space that your freight takes up. On the other hand, in case of FTL shipments, you will need to pay for the entire truck.

Delivery Time

FTL shipments generally move quicker. This is because of the fact that FTL shipments only carry your product. Therefore, it will directly move from the starting point to the destination. On the contrary, as LTL shipments contain the cargos of multiple shippers, they will need to make multiple stops before reaching the final destination. Therefore, if you need to get something shipped quickly, FTL is the way to go.

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Handling

One of the major benefits of FTL shipments is that your products will remain on the same truck from the starting point to the final destination. They will not be transferred from one truck to another. Therefore, there is less risk of your good getting damaged. While in case of FTL, your shipment will be transferred multiple times before reaching the final delivery location. This increases the risk of damage and even missing items.

Advantages of LTL

LTL shipping’s flexibility is one of its main benefits. As a company, you are free to send as much or as little as you need, so you don’t need to stress about sticking to minimum shipping criteria. Additionally, this implies that you can better control your inventory and prevent overstocking.

LTL shipping also provides a more ecologically responsible alternative, which is another benefit. A single truck may carry many cargoes, which lowers the number of trucks on the road and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, LTL carriers frequently have cutting-edge technology at their disposal, like GPS tracking and temperature control, to make sure that your items are carried in a secure and safe manner.

Advantages of FTL

The fact that FTL shipping is quicker than LTL shipment is one of its main benefits. Your consignment will reach its destination more quickly since there won’t be any pauses along the route because the entire truck is devoted to it. Additionally, FTL shipping provides additional delivery time flexibility because you may organise the delivery to meet your precise needs.

Reduced danger of loss or damage is another benefit of FTL delivery. Less chance of loss or damage during transit because the entire truck is devoted to your shipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both LTL and FTL shipping methods have benefits and drawbacks, and the decision between the two is influenced by a number of variables, including the size of the shipment, the cost, and the needed delivery time. It’s crucial for business owners to assess their shipping demands and select a delivery method that suits them.

Whether you pick LTL or FTL shipping, it’s critical to work with a dependable carrier with a track record of delivering items on time and in good shape. You can ensure that your items are carried safely and securely by selecting a reliable carrier, which will eventually assist to boost your bottom line.

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