DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LTL VS. FTL
The primary difference between LTL vs FTL is the amount of trailer space used for shipping. LTL stands for “less than truckload” and is used when freight only takes up a portion of a trailer. FTL stands for “full truckload” and is used when freight requires the use of an entire trailer.
Less Than Truckload (LTL) and Full Truckload (FTL) are types of freight shipping that sound exactly as they are described. With a quick overview of the vocabulary and a few highlights of the benefits of truckload shipping, we can help you decide which way is the best way to fit your shipping needs. And with uShip, we can help plug you into the right shippers and the right service for the job.
Cost Comparison
The biggest difference between LTL vs FTL is the cost. LTL can significantly save on shipping the same freight in an empty truck by shipping a smaller freight load. In some instances where you have a shipment large enough to fill an entire container, shipping FTL may be less expensive.
This occurs at times when the entire shipment has the same origin and destination. However, because this varies, you will want to reach out uShip or work with a freight broker to determine your needs and receive quotes.
Additionally, you may find that FTL shipping quotes may come in the form of price per mile, whereas LTL shipping quotes may come in the form of price per weight.
Cost Comparison
The biggest difference between LTL vs FTL is the cost. LTL can significantly save on shipping the same freight in an empty truck by shipping a smaller freight load. In some instances where you have a shipment large enough to fill an entire container, shipping FTL may be less expensive.
This occurs at times when the entire shipment has the same origin and destination. However, because this varies, you will want to reach out uShip or work with a freight broker to determine your needs and receive quotes.
Additionally, you may find that FTL shipping quotes may come in the form of price per mile, whereas LTL shipping quotes may come in the form of price per weight.
Timeline Comparison
Because LTL freight travels on a hub system and can be transferred several times before reaching its destination, it might take longer to ship than FTL freight. Your LTL freight carrier should be able to provide a timetable with the exact transit time of your shipment.
Timeline Comparison
Because LTL freight travels on a hub system and can be transferred several times before reaching its destination, it might take longer to ship than FTL freight. Your LTL freight carrier should be able to provide a timetable with the exact transit time of your shipment.
Handling and Preparation Comparison
LTL freight is more susceptible to damage since it is handled and transferred. One way to mitigate damage is to consolidate your items into one large, palletized shipment. Minimizing the number of individual packages reduces handling time and decreases the likelihood of damage.
Handling and Preparation Comparison
LTL freight is more susceptible to damage since it is handled and transferred. One way to mitigate damage is to consolidate your items into one large, palletized shipment. Minimizing the number of individual packages reduces handling time and decreases the likelihood of damage.
LTL Meaning
LTL means “less than truckload” and is the transportation of small quantities of products or goods that do not require the space of a full truckload. A typical LTL shipment will share trailer space with freight from other businesses, thus making it more affordable to ship pallets and crates.
FTL Meaning
FTL stands for full truckload shipping. FTL, or full truckload shipping, is when a freight shipment requires an entire trailer. An FTL shipment usually consists of roughly 30 pallets in a 53-foot trailer. Full truckload shipments can weigh up to 45,000 pounds.
Which is Right for You?
If you are wondering which service type is right for you, LTL vs FTL, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is the shipment less than 10,000 lbs?
- Will someone be available during business hours for pickup and delivery?
- Is it possible to consolidate and palletize the shipment?
- Is the timeline acceptable?
- Is sharing trailer space with other shipments acceptable?
If you answered no to any of the above questions, you might want to consider FTL shipping for your freight.
BEFORE YOU GET A QUOTE WITH USHIP
- Choose your location type for pickup and delivery so carriers will know if extra equipment or labor is required.
- Be sure to select any extra services you require because additional fees may apply.
- Measure the length, width, and height in inches or centimeters. Be sure to measure to the farthest points, including pallets and other packaging material.
- Include the commodity, pallet, and packaging for an accurate shipping weight.
WHY USHIP?
Not only does uShip provide discounted freight quotes, but we also offer other great benefits, such as:
- Rebill Protection: uShip audits your invoice to ensure no mistakes were made. In addition, if you do not agree with an additional charge, we will assist you in disputing it with your carrier directly.
- Load Your Own Rates: If you have your own rates with LTL carriers, you can load them directly into your uShip portal, allowing you to compare quotes all in one place.
- Customer Specific Rates: We can negotiate pricing with carriers based on your individual volume.
- Referral Program: You will receive shipping credit when you refer a friend.
- Insurance: Did you know LTL carriers do not have full liability insurance? It’s always best to cover your freight with a uShip cargo insurance policy.
From competitive prices to great customer service, it’s clear why so many small businesses prefer obtaining LTL freight quotes from uShip.
Shipping Crates or Pallets?
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