LTL vs FTL shipping: Which costs less for my freight?
Cost breakdowns and decision rules from Gateway Logistics in New Hampshire, NH.
You have freight that's too big for a small parcel but doesn't fill a whole truck. The shipping quotes you're getting don't make sense. Some companies quote LTL, others push FTL, and you can't tell which option actually saves money for your New Hampshire business.
The choice between LTL and FTL depends on how much truck space your freight takes up. LTL means your cargo shares trailer space with other shipments. FTL means you rent the entire truck, even if your freight only fills part of it.
FTL typically costs more upfront but makes sense when your shipment fills 75% or more of a trailer. That's roughly 26-28 standard pallets or 34,000 pounds. LTL costs less for smaller loads but takes longer because the truck makes multiple stops. Calculate cost per pound, not just the total price.
Measure your freight's dimensions and weight first. Get quotes for both options, then divide the total cost by your shipment's weight. If you need speed and your load is close to filling a trailer, choose FTL. For smaller shipments where time isn't critical, LTL usually wins. Gateway Logistics can run both calculations and show you the real numbers for your specific freight.
Once you pick the right shipping method, your freight moves predictably and your costs make sense. You'll know exactly what you're paying for and why.
Other things people in New Hampshire 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.
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Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in New Hampshire and the area around it.