FTL vs. LTL Shipping: Key Differences Explained

FTL vs. LTL Shipping: What’s the Difference?

Choosing the right freight method—FTL (Full Truckload) or LTL (Less Than Truckload)—can make a big impact on your shipping costs, transit time, and delivery reliability. Whether you’re shipping pallets of retail goods or bulky ecommerce orders, understanding the pros and cons of each option is essential.

Let’s break down the key differences between FTL and LTL, and how to know which method fits your business best.

What Is FTL Shipping?

FTL (Full Truckload) means your shipment takes up an entire truck—either because it fills the space or because it’s being shipped exclusively. No other freight shares the truck.

When to use FTL:

You’re shipping 10+ pallets or 15,000+ lbs


You need direct delivery with fewer stops


Your freight is high-value, fragile, or time-sensitive

FTL Pros:

Faster transit times


Less handling = lower damage risk


More secure for high-value freight

FTL Cons:

More expensive for small shipments


May require scheduling flexibility

What Is LTL Shipping?

LTL (Less Than Truckload) is used when your freight doesn’t fill an entire trailer. Your shipment is combined with other companies’ freight, and you pay only for the space you use.

When to use LTL:

You’re shipping 1–6 pallets or <15,000 lbs


You want cost savings on smaller loads


You're okay with slightly longer delivery times

LTL Pros:

Lower cost for smaller shipments


Flexible for recurring small freight needs


Widely available with regular pickup schedules

LTL Cons:

Longer transit times due to multiple stops


Higher damage risk from more handling


May have stricter packaging and dimension rules

Want to avoid surprise shipping costs? Check out our guide to freight classes and how they affect LTL pricing.

FTL vs. LTL: Side-by-Side Comparison

How to Choose Between FTL and LTL

Ask yourself:

How large is the shipment?


Is speed or cost more important?


Is the product fragile or high-value?


Do I need guaranteed delivery windows?

In some cases, the choice depends on your customer’s expectations—retailers may have strict delivery appointments that align better with FTL, while ecommerce restocks may be fine with LTL.

How 3PL Center Helps with FTL and LTL Shipping

At 3PL Center, we simplify the decision-making process by giving you both options—and the tools to compare them in real time.

Here's how we help:

Rate Shopping: Our WMS lets you compare FTL and LTL options from multiple carriers.


Discounted Freight Rates: Thanks to our high shipping volume, we offer exclusive discounts—especially for large, heavy, and oversized freight.


Fast Turnaround: Once your inventory arrives at our warehouse, we can receive, prep, and ship out LTL or FTL orders in 24–48 hours.


WMS Freight Visibility: Track freight movement, status, and delivery progress through our customer portal.

Whether you're shipping a few pallets of ecommerce inventory or a full truckload of retail-ready goods, we’ll help you choose the method that saves money and meets your delivery goals.

Choose the Right Freight Option with Confidence

Whether you're shipping a few pallets or a full truckload, understanding the difference between FTL and LTL helps you save money and meet delivery deadlines. At 3PL Center, we offer both options—with discounted rates, fast turnaround times, and tools to help you make the smartest shipping decision every time.
Contact us today to see how our freight services can support your business.