Shipping guide
LTL vs Full Truckload
Use LTL when a shipment uses only part of a trailer—commonly one to six pallets. Compare volume LTL and full truckload as freight approaches roughly 6 to 12 pallets, 10,000 to 15,000 pounds, or 12 to 20 linear feet. Choose full truckload sooner for fragile, high-value, time-sensitive, or non-stackable freight.
Blake Brunk
COO, FreightCake
How the modes differ
LTL combines several shippers' freight on one trailer and usually moves through terminals. Full truckload reserves the trailer for one shipment and usually moves directly from origin to destination.
Choose LTL when
- You have roughly one to six standard pallets.
- The freight occupies less than about 12 linear feet.
- Terminal handling is acceptable.
- You want to pay only for the trailer space used.
Compare both modes when
- The shipment reaches roughly 6 to 12 pallets.
- Weight approaches 10,000 to 15,000 pounds.
- Non-stackable freight consumes significant linear feet.
- Volume LTL minimums and special handling narrow the price gap.
Choose full truckload when
- The shipment fills most of a trailer by pallets, weight, or linear feet.
- Direct transit matters more than the lowest partial-load price.
- Fragile or high-value freight should avoid terminal transfers.
- The load requires exclusive-use equipment or controlled handling.
Cost and service trade-offs
LTL is efficient for partial loads but adds terminal handling and class-based pricing. Full truckload has a higher whole-trailer cost but can become less expensive as LTL weight, pallet count, and linear-foot charges accumulate.
Review the accessorials, transit plan, handling risk, and total landed rate—not just the linehaul.
New to pallet freight? Start with the step-by-step guide to shipping a pallet.
Frequently asked questions
How many pallets should go full truckload?
Start comparing full truckload around 6 to 12 standard pallets. Pallet dimensions, stackability, weight, and linear feet can move the threshold.
At what weight should I switch from LTL to FTL?
Compare both around 10,000 to 15,000 pounds. A lighter shipment can still justify FTL if it consumes trailer space or needs exclusive handling.
Is full truckload faster than LTL?
Usually. FTL commonly moves directly from pickup to delivery, while LTL can pass through multiple terminals.
Is FTL safer for fragile freight?
It can be. Exclusive-use truckload avoids repeated terminal transfers, reducing handling exposure.
What is volume LTL?
Volume LTL is pricing for shipments larger than standard LTL but smaller than a full trailer. It can bridge the gap near the modal crossover.
Can FreightCake help with truckload?
Yes. FreightCake accepts custom truckload quote requests for team review alongside supported LTL workflows.