LTL vs FTL shipping for my freight?
Clear comparison from Gateway Logistics, LTL shipping experts in Maine, ME.
You have a shipment that's too big for parcel but doesn't fill a whole truck. You're stuck between LTL and FTL options, unsure which saves money or gets there faster. Maine shippers face this choice daily, especially with freight moving between Portland's port and inland distribution centers.
The decision comes down to space and time. LTL works when your freight takes up less than 75% of a trailer. You share space with other shippers and pay only for what you use. FTL makes sense when you fill most of the trailer or need direct delivery without stops.
LTL typically costs less per pound but takes 3-7 days with multiple pickup and delivery stops. FTL costs more upfront but delivers faster with direct routing. Calculate cost per pound, not just total price. A 10,000-pound shipment might cost $800 LTL versus $1,200 FTL, but the FTL arrives two days sooner.
Measure your freight dimensions and weight first. If it exceeds 12 linear feet or 10,000 pounds, FTL usually wins. For smaller loads under 8,000 pounds, LTL saves money unless you need next-day delivery. Gateway Logistics can run both quotes and show you the real numbers for your Maine route.
You'll know which option fits when you see the cost breakdown and transit time side by side. Most shippers find their sweet spot quickly once they understand the trade-offs between speed and savings.
Other things people in Maine 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 Maine and the area around it.