What is the Difference Between LTL and FTL?
Because of the availability of different options, shipping freight can seem more of a complicated task than it has to be. So, one must know the difference between Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping and Full Truckload (FTL) shipping as they are the transportation options that are commonly used nowadays. If you wish to know more about the same, read on this list of the major differences between LTL and FTL shipments so that you can choose one based on your requirements
1. Size
While shipping freight, one thing that you must consider is the size. Less Than Truckload and Full Truckload are actually self-explanatory terms. As LTL shipments are smaller shipments, they do not take up the entire space of the truck and therefore leave room for various other small shipments. But when you consider FTL shipments, they fill almost all the space of the whole truck and are much larger in size. FTL logistics can offer help when you have high capacity and high-volume needs. You can opt for FTL freight transport if you wish to haul heavy loads and bulk items for greater distances.
2. Price
Because LTL shipments leave space for various other shipments and are smaller in size, they are cheaper as you make a payment for only the space that you use. FTL shipments take the space of almost the entire truck, and you have to pay more for space. There are many companies that offer FTL freight transport at competitive rates as well.
It is important to know which type of shipping to choose because if you go for the incorrect option, you will then have to pay more for space you will not even use.
3. Time
In the case where you need to get something shipped as quickly as possible, then you can opt for FTL. This is because LTL shipments frequently require multiple stops as well as transfers before reaching the final destination as they involve more than your own shipment. On the other hand, the pick-up and delivery of FTL shipments take place via one truck only, which in turn helps deliver your shipment more quickly. So, if you wish to get your shipment delivered quickly, then you can go for FTL freight transport.
Advantages of LTL and FTL Shipping
LTL shipping offers you the advantage of minimized costs. On the other hand, FTL shipping is advantageous when you have delicate or high-risk freight.
Selecting the correct shipping method is important for saving both money and time for your company. LTL and FTL are used in the logistics community as common terms, and it is important for you to know about them if you wish to go for any one or both of these shipments.
