What Is Full Truckload Freight (FTL)?

What is Full Truckload Freight (FTL)?

Full truckload freight (FTL) means your shipment rides alone in a truck or trailer. The driver picks up at your location and goes straight to the receiver, with no freight transfers at hubs. Because the freight stays on the same unit, risk of damage drops, and transit times are shorter. Most shippers use FTL when they have 10+ pallets, a heavy or bulky load, or time-sensitive goods.

So, what is full truckload freight doing better than other methods? It reduces handling and wait times. You get more schedule control and better security because the load is sealed. You also get clearer ETAs since there aren’t extra stops to throw off the timeline. If you’re shipping heavy equipment, loaded containers, or an RV, FTL paired with the right trailer type keeps things simple and secure.

Advantages and Disadvantages of FTL

Advantages

• Faster transit: Direct pickup-to-delivery routes cut days out of the schedule in many lanes. Fewer stops means fewer surprises.
• Lower risk: Your freight isn’t cross-docked, so there’s less chance of scuffs, missing pieces, or forklift mishaps. Sealed trailers help deter tampering.
• Cost per unit for large loads: If you can fill most of the trailer, FTL often beats the per-pallet cost of LTL. That’s real savings on volume moves.
• More control: You can set pickup windows, delivery appointments, and special handling needs with one carrier and one driver. That simplifies planning.

Disadvantages

• Higher upfront price for small loads: If you only have a few pallets, you’re paying for unused space. LTL may cost less in that case.
• Underutilized capacity: Half-empty trailers waste money: that’s why load planning matters.
• Less flexible for small, frequent releases: If you ship 1–3 pallets several times a week, LTL consolidation can be better.
• Access issues: Tight docks or residential sites may need smaller equipment or extra coordination, which can add time and fees.

What is Full Truckload Freight Used For?

You’ll use FTL when your freight fills or nearly fills a trailer, or when it needs special care. Think 10–26 pallets, heavy items, or high-value cargo. Many shippers choose FTL for retail distribution, eCommerce replenishment, new store openings, and seasonal surges.

FTL also fits moves that need special gear. Examples include lowboys for bulldozers and excavators, step-decks for taller equipment, and flatbeds for building materials. Loaded or empty shipping containers (20-ft or 40-ft) can move on chassis or flatbeds as a single, sealed unit. Even RVs, boats, and non-running automotive vehicles can ride on the right trailer with winches and tie-down systems that meet FMCSA standards.

Should I Use FTL or LTL?

Here’s the quick way to decide: How many pallets do you have, and how fast do you need them delivered? If you’re at six or more pallets, fragile goods, or a tight deadline, FTL often wins. If you’re shipping 1–5 pallets with flexible timing, LTL usually costs less.

Ask yourself a few more questions:

• Is damage risk a big concern? FTL cuts handling, which protects packaging and product.
• Do you need a firm delivery window? Direct routing helps hit appointments.
• Are you shipping heavy equipment or containers? FTL with the right trailer and permits keeps you compliant and safe.
• Is space use high? If the trailer is near full, your cost per unit improves with FTL.

Still torn? Compare quotes both ways. Price the full truck against an LTL rate with guaranteed delivery and limited handling. Then factor in any risk, appointment fees, reclass charges, and packing costs. Many times, the cleaner move with fewer unknowns is worth it.