LTL vs FTL shipping: which saves money for your freight?
Clear comparison from Gateway Logistics, LTL shipping experts in Utah, UT.
You have a shipment that's too big for parcel but doesn't fill a whole truck. LTL and FTL both seem possible, but you're not sure which costs less. Utah shippers often face this decision with loads heading to California, Texas, or back east.
The choice between LTL and FTL depends on your freight size and timeline. LTL means sharing truck space with other shipments. FTL gives you the whole trailer. The breakeven point usually happens around 12-15 pallets or 10,000 pounds, but density matters too.
FTL typically costs $1.50-$3.00 per mile for the whole truck. LTL pricing runs $0.15-$0.75 per pound depending on distance and freight class. Calculate cost per pound for both options. FTL becomes cheaper when your shipment fills 75% or more of a trailer. LTL works better for smaller loads but adds 2-5 days for multiple stops.
Measure your freight dimensions and weight first. Get quotes for both options from the same timeframe. Gateway Logistics can run both scenarios and show you the real numbers. Ask about transit time differences too. FTL moves faster but LTL might save hundreds of dollars on partial loads.
You'll know you picked right when your freight arrives on time within budget. FTL gives you speed and control. LTL gives you cost savings on smaller shipments. Both work well when matched to the right situation.
Other things people in Utah 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 Utah and the area around it.