LTL vs FTL shipping: which saves money for my freight?
Clear comparison from Gateway Logistics, LTL shipping experts in Colorado, CO.
You have freight to ship from Colorado but you're not sure whether less-than-truckload or full truckload makes more sense. The shipment size falls somewhere in between and you want to pick the option that saves money without creating delays.
The choice between LTL and FTL comes down to shipment size, timeline, and cost per pound. FTL means you rent the entire truck, even if your freight only fills part of it. LTL means you share truck space with other shippers and only pay for what you use.
FTL typically costs more upfront but makes sense when your shipment fills 75% or more of a trailer, roughly 26+ pallets or 34,000+ pounds. LTL costs less for smaller loads but takes longer because the truck makes multiple stops to pick up and deliver other shipments. Calculate your cost per pound, not just the total shipping price.
Get quotes for both options and compare the cost per pound plus your timeline needs. If speed matters more than cost, FTL wins. If you can wait 2-7 days and want to save money on partial loads, LTL works better. Gateway Logistics can run both scenarios and show you the real numbers for your Colorado shipment.
You'll know exactly what each option costs and how long it takes. No guessing about which shipping method fits your budget and schedule best.
Other things people in Colorado ask
why are freight costs so high
Freight rates swing with fuel, driver shortages, and seasonal demand. A freight broker tracks these patterns daily and can lock in better rates through carrier relationships. They also spot when you're getting overcharged.
partial load freight shipping LTL
LTL shipping lets you pay only for the space you use. Your freight gets consolidated with other partial loads. Expect 2-5 days longer transit time than full truckload. Package your freight on pallets for easier handling.
LTL shipping vs waiting for full truckload
LTL makes sense when you need frequent smaller shipments or can't wait to accumulate a full load. If your customers need steady deliveries and you can't afford to hold inventory, ship LTL. If you can batch shipments and time isn't critical, waiting for a full truckload usually costs less per pound.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in Colorado and the area around it.