When to ship Full Truckload over LTL?

Updated September 29, 2026: Choosing between LTL and full truckload

LTL uses shared trailer capacity; full truckload reserves a trailer for one shipment. Compare both options using actual weight, dimensions, handling needs, transit requirements, and total quoted charges. Trailer capacity varies, so there is no universal pallet or weight cutoff.

1. Compare actual LTL and truckload quotes for the same origin, destination, dates, and shipment details. Lane and available capacity can change which option costs less.
2. If you can combine shipments going to the same destination, ask whether consolidation or a dedicated truck would make sense.
3. A dedicated truck may involve fewer transfers than a typical LTL move, which can matter for fragile or high-value freight. Neither mode eliminates damage risk; packaging and insurance terms still matter.
4. Compare total charges, not a blanket fuel-cost assumption. Include accessorials, transit needs, handling, and any applicable fuel surcharge in each quote.

For a shipment-specific comparison, request a freight quote with your dimensions, weight, route, dates, and handling needs. Our team can review the appropriate mode. Ask yourself:

• Do you have enough items to fill an entire truck?
• Is this freight time sensitive?
• Is the weight enough that LTL rates would be higher than Truckload?
• Would a dedicated trailer reduce transfers or meet a handling requirement for this shipment?

Logistics Worldwide can review your shipment details and help compare available freight options. Pricing, transit, and service depend on the route, equipment, carrier, and shipment requirements.

LTL quotes can change if the submitted shipment details differ from what the carrier receives. Before requesting a rate, check the following information:

1. Dimensions, weight, and freight class: measure the packaged freight and provide accurate details. A carrier reweigh or reclassification can change the final charge.
2. Packaging: secure freight for the handling it will receive. Pallets or crates may be appropriate depending on the commodity and carrier requirements.
3. Additional services: identify liftgate, limited access, appointment, inside delivery, or other needs at pickup and delivery before the quote is prepared.
4. Service options: compare the total quoted service and transit requirements, not only the base line-haul price.
5. Tracking: keep the shipment reference and monitor milestones so issues can be addressed promptly.

If you are unsure which mode fits, request a freight quote and tell us what you know. Planning to ship with us regularly? Request a shipping account.

Sources:

• Robinson, A. (2018, December 28). What Is Full Truckload Shipping & How It Differs From Other Over-The-Road Modes? Retrieved August 11, 2020, from https://cerasis.com/full-truckload-shipping/
• Robinson, A. (2019, February 25). LTL vs Truckload: Which Mode Is Best To Use for My Freight Shipment? Retrieved August 11, 2020, from https://cerasis.com/ltl-vs-full-truckload/
• 6 LTL shipping mistakes you could be making. (2017, May 11). Retrieved August 11, 2020, from https://www.freightquote.com/blog/6-ltl-shipping-mistakes-you-could-be-making/