LTL vs. FTL Shipping: How to Choose the Right Freight Option for Your Business
LTL vs. FTL Freight: Choosing the Right Shipping Method for Regular and Temperature-Controlled Goods
There comes a time when your business has to ship a pallet (or a few dozen) somewhere else. What in the world do you do then? Here is a quick rundown of your options, and things you should consider.
Two of the most common freight options are Less Than Truckload (LTL) and Full Truckload (FTL) shipping. Depending on what you're shipping (dry goods, frozen foods, or temperature-sensitive items), you may also need to choose between regular and reefer trucks. Here’s what you need to know.
LTL vs. FTL: What’s the Difference?
LTL Freight is ideal when your shipment doesn’t fill an entire trailer. It combines freight from multiple businesses into one truck. You only pay for the space you use, making it cost-effective for small-to-medium-sized loads.
FTL Freight, on the other hand, reserves an entire truck for your shipment. It’s typically used for large loads, high-value goods, or time-sensitive deliveries where minimizing stops and handling is a priority.
| Feature | LTL | FTL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Shared / lower per load | Higher (entire trailer) |
| Transit Time | Slower, multiple stops | Faster, direct |
| Handling | Multiple touches | Minimal handling |
| Best For | Smaller number of pallets | 6+ pallets or full truck |
Temperature Matters: Regular, Chilled, or Frozen?
Now let’s talk temperature. Most LTL and FTL shipments move in dry trailers with no climate control. That’s fine for most consumer goods, but if you’re shipping perishables, pharmaceuticals, or temperature-sensitive products, you’ll need a reefer truck.
1. Regular Dry Van
- No temperature control
- Ideal for packaged goods, apparel, machinery, and dry consumables
- Most available and affordable option
2. Reefer (Refrigerated Trailer)
- Typically operates between -10°F and 60°F
- Used for dairy, fresh produce, beverages, and some pharmaceuticals
- Requires careful load planning to avoid incompatible cargo
3. Specialized Reefer
- Maintains temperatures as low as -85°F
- Required for frozen foods, biological samples, and certain chemicals
- Rare in LTL; usually arranged via FTL due to complexity
Considerations for Chilled and Frozen LTL
- Limited Availability: Not all carriers offer reefer LTL services, especially for frozen goods.
- Strict Timing: Temperature-sensitive shipments can’t afford delays or missed handoffs.
- Load Compatibility: Carriers must group shipments with similar temperature and contamination requirements.
- Higher Costs: Reefer units consume more fuel and require more planning, making them more expensive than dry freight.
Final Takeaway
Shipping freight doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re moving a few pallets of dry goods, LTL is a cost-effective choice. If speed, size, or temperature control are top priorities, FTL offers the control and protection your products need.
Still not sure which way to go? Talk to your 3PL or freight partner and see which option fits your needs best.