Choosing the right transport model is one of the key decisions in logistics. Companies that regularly use transport services are often faced with a dilemma: should they opt for full truck load (FTL) or less than truck load (LTL) transport? Both solutions have their advantages and limitations, and their cost-effectiveness depends on the size of the load, budget, delivery time, and safety expectations.
Full truckload transport involves the use of the entire space of the vehicle by a single customer, while less than truckload transport allows shipments from several senders to be combined in one vehicle. Understanding the differences between these models allows for better supply chain planning and logistics cost optimization.
In this article, we explain the differences between FTL and LTL transport and when it is worth choosing each of these solutions.
What is full truckload (FTL) transport?
Full truckload (FTL) transport is a model in which the entire cargo space of a vehicle is reserved for a single customer. This may involve transport from one sender to one recipient, but also deliveries to several locations or recipients, provided that the entire load comes from a single order.
In FTL transport, transshipments and additional loads from other customers are excluded. Thanks to this, the transport takes place directly, without interference with the goods after loading. This model works particularly well for large batches of goods, loads requiring full control over transport conditions, or time constraints. It is often chosen by companies that care about cargo safety and predictable delivery times.
Advantages of FTL transport:
- short delivery times – no intermediate points or transshipments,
- greater cargo safety – lower risk of damage,
- flexibility – the ability to adapt transport conditions to the type of cargo.
- Disadvantages of FTL transport:
- higher costs for smaller loads,
- the need to fill the entire space of the vehicle for the transport to be economical.
Full truckload transport is therefore the best choice in situations where time, safety, and direct delivery without additional logistics operations are important.
What is less than truckload (LTL) shipping?
Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a solution in which a single vehicle transports cargo from several different customers. The cargo space is shared, and the cost of transport is distributed proportionally to the space occupied or the weight of the shipment.
This model is beneficial for companies that do not need to ship full loads and want to optimize their transportation costs. LTL transport does not require any special logistics operations – loads can be transported directly or with possible transshipment, depending on the route organization. Unlike groupage shipments, LTL does not involve sorting goods at terminals.
Advantages of LTL transport:
- lower costs for small and medium-sized shipments,
- no need to fill the entire truck,
- flexibility for companies with smaller transport volumes.
- Disadvantages of LTL transport:
- longer delivery times due to consolidation and transshipment,
- higher risk of damage to goods,
- less predictability for urgent deliveries.
Partial transport works best when cost is a priority and the shipment does not require immediate, direct delivery.
In a separate article, you can read about the most common mistakes made when organizing partial transport.
FTL vs. LTL transport – key differences
Full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) transport meets different business needs. The choice of the right model depends on the size of the load, time requirements, budget, and type of goods.
The most important differences are presented in the table below:
| Criterion | Full truckload (FTL) | Less than truckload (LTL) |
| Transport organization | One vehicle for one customer only | Vehicle shared between several shippers |
| Delivery time | Shorter delivery time – no transshipments or additional stops | Longer delivery time – cargo consolidation and stops at terminals |
| Cargo safety | High – no additional operations, lower risk of damage | Medium – more transshipments, higher risk of damage |
| Costs | Cost-effective for full loads, more expensive for small batches | Economical for small and medium-sized shipments |
| Flexibility | Transport conditions tailored to one customer | Flexible solution for multiple customers with smaller needs |
| Applications | Large batches of goods, critical and urgent deliveries | Shipments include smaller batches of goods — regular and one-off |
When to choose full truckload transport and when to choose less than truckload transport?
The decision between full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) transport should be based on an analysis of the company’s needs, the type of goods, and the logistics budget.
FTL transport is suitable when:
- a large volume of goods is transported, filling the entire space of the vehicle,
- fast, direct delivery without transshipment is a priority,
- the transported goods are particularly sensitive or high-value,
- timeliness and full control over the transport are important.
LTL transport will be a better choice when:
- the shipment does not fill the entire vehicle,
- cost is the most important criterion and delivery time can be longer,
- shipments include smaller batches of goods — regardless of whether they are regular or one-off,
- the goods do not require special transport conditions or individual handling.
For example, an automotive parts manufacturer shipping components to several customers across Europe may use LTL transport to optimize costs. On the other hand, a food company transporting large batches of fresh products should choose FTL transport to ensure fast and safe delivery without the risk of delays.
If you want to know more, read the case study on how cooperation with Jasek Transport helped avoid production downtime in the automotive industry.
Jasek Transport – we help you choose the best solution
The choice between full truckload and less than truckload transport is not always obvious. That is why it is worth choosing a carrier who will not only carry out the transport, but also advise you on the most advantageous option in a given situation.
Jasek Transport is a company with family values and many years of tradition in the transport industry. Thanks to our experience in handling both FTL and LTL shipments, we offer flexible solutions tailored to the individual needs of our customers.
What sets us apart:
- individual approach – we analyze the customer’s needs and propose the most cost-effective solution,
- modern fleet – adapted to full loads and smaller batches,
- timeliness and safety – priority treatment of each order,
- transparent communication – full information about the status of the shipment at every stage.
This gives our customers the confidence that, regardless of the type of transport, their goods will reach their destination efficiently, safely, and on schedule.
Differences between full truckload and less than truckload shipping – summary
Full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) are two different transport models that meet different business needs. FTL is ideal for large, urgent, and demanding loads, guaranteeing speed and safety. LTL, on the other hand, is an economical solution for smaller shipments, allowing you to optimize costs and manage transport flexibly.
Choosing the right option has a direct impact on your budget, timeliness, and supply chain efficiency. That is why it is so important to have the support of a carrier who can advise you and tailor domestic and international transport services to the specifics of your business.
Contact us to choose the best solution for your shipments – whether you need FTL or LTL transport, we will provide you with security, timeliness, and flexibility.
