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Full Truckload vs. Less Than Truckload: Which Shipping Option is Right for Your Business?

Introduction

In the world of freight shipping, choosing between Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) can greatly impact your business’s bottom line. The right choice depends on shipment size, delivery deadlines, budget, and supply chain needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the differences between FTL and LTL, the pros and cons of each, and how to choose the ideal solution for your business. We’ll also share how Red Ball Express Logistics helps businesses across the U.S. optimize their freight decisions with reliability, transparency, and cost-efficiency.

What is Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping?

Full Truckload (FTL) shipping refers to the transportation of goods that fill an entire truck trailer. Typically, this means shipments exceeding 10,000 pounds or requiring more than 10 pallets of space.

Key Characteristics of FTL:
  • Shipment occupies the entire trailer
  • Direct transport from pickup to delivery
  • Ideal for high-volume freight
  • Faster transit times due to no additional stops
Benefits of FTL Shipping:
  • Speed: FTL shipments move directly from origin to destination, reducing delivery times.
  • Security: Goods are not handled mid-route, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
  • Cost Efficiency (for large loads): FTL can be more economical than splitting shipments across multiple LTL loads.
  • Capacity Control: You get the entire truck, allowing more control over loading and scheduling.
When to Use FTL:
  • Shipments over 10,000 lbs
  • Fragile or high-value cargo
  • Time-sensitive deliveries
  • Single destination loads

Suggested Image: A full 53-ft truck being loaded at a warehouse dock with a single large shipment.

What is Less Than Truckload (LTL) Shipping?

Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping involves transporting freight from multiple shippers in a shared trailer. It's designed for smaller shipments typically weighing between 150 and 10,000 pounds.

Key Characteristics of LTL:
  • Shipment shares space with others
  • Consolidated loads with multiple stops
  • Priced based on space, weight, and distance
Benefits of LTL Shipping:
  • Cost Savings: You only pay for the space your shipment occupies.
  • Flexibility: Great for businesses with smaller, frequent shipments.
  • Environmental Efficiency: Shared loads reduce fuel usage and emissions.
  • Inventory Management: Ideal for just-in-time (JIT) delivery models.
When to Use LTL:
  • Shipments under 10,000 lbs
  • Non-urgent delivery timelines
  • Cost-conscious freight planning
  • Multiple regional or urban deliveries

Suggested Image: A logistics terminal where workers are organizing different pallets for LTL delivery.

How to Decide Which Option Is Right for You

Choosing between FTL and LTL depends on your shipment specifics, deadlines, and budget. Here are key factors to consider:

  1. Size and Weight of Your Shipment:
    If your freight takes up most or all of a trailer, FTL is more efficient. For smaller freight, LTL provides cost-effective shipping.
  2. Time Sensitivity:
    FTL is ideal for urgent shipments with fixed delivery deadlines. LTL offers more flexible timelines with slightly longer transit times.
  3. Product Type:
    Fragile or high-value goods benefit from FTL due to reduced handling. LTL is fine for durable and non-sensitive items.
  4. Shipping Frequency:
    LTL is a great option for businesses that ship smaller loads frequently. FTL works better for bulk or seasonal shipping.
  5. Budget Constraints:
    For budget-sensitive logistics, LTL provides shared-cost savings. FTL delivers value when large volume offsets the cost of using a full trailer.
Business owners reviewing shipping options

Why Businesses Trust Red Ball Express Logistics

At Red Ball Express Logistics, we understand that no two businesses have the same shipping needs. That’s why we offer tailored freight solutions that optimize speed, cost, and reliability—whether you're shipping via FTL or LTL.

Nationwide Carrier Network

Access to top-tier FTL and LTL carriers across the U.S.

Transparent Pricing

Competitive rates with no hidden fees.

24/7 Support

Live logistics specialists available around the clock.

End-to-End Tracking

Real-time shipment visibility and proactive updates.

Flexible Booking

Quick scheduling and custom shipping plans.

Real-World Use Cases

Case 1: FTL for Bulk Manufacturing

A Midwest furniture manufacturer regularly uses FTL to ship large batches of products directly to major retailers. The shipments are palletized, heavy, and fragile—making FTL the perfect choice.

Case 2: LTL for E-commerce Retailer

A New York-based e-commerce business sends smaller packages to distribution centers across the Northeast. LTL helps reduce costs while ensuring timely deliveries for their growing customer base.

Warehouse personnel managing FTL and LTL packages

Warehouse personnel managing both large palletized and smaller LTL packages

Conclusion: Make Smarter Shipping Decisions with Red Ball Express

The decision between FTL and LTL shipping depends on your shipment size, delivery expectations, and cost targets. Whether you run a large-scale manufacturing operation or a nimble e-commerce store, choosing the right freight method is critical.

Red Ball Express Logistics is here to help you navigate your shipping strategy with customized logistics solutions that align with your business goals.

Logistics manager in front of Red Ball Express trucks