FTL vs LTL: Which One Do You Need?
Full truckload and less-than-truckload are the two main ways to move freight by road. This guide from Agant Elite Logistics in Brampton, Ontario explains how to choose.
What is FTL?
Full truckload (FTL) means one shipment uses a dedicated trailer from pickup to delivery. The truck goes directly from the shipper to the receiver, and the freight is not unloaded along the way.
What is LTL?
Less-than-truckload (LTL) combines several smaller shipments from different shippers in one trailer. Freight usually moves through one or more terminals where it is sorted and transferred to other trucks before delivery.
When should you choose FTL?
FTL tends to suit shipments that fill most of a trailer or are heavy, fragile, time-sensitive or high value.
- Large pallet counts or heavy weights
- Freight that should not be handled at terminals
- Tight delivery appointments
- Temperature-controlled or high-value goods
When should you choose LTL?
LTL tends to suit smaller shipments that do not need the whole trailer and have some flexibility on delivery timing.
- A few pallets rather than a full trailer
- Flexible delivery windows
- Freight that can safely be handled at terminals
- Regular small shipments to many customers
What about partial loads?
Some shipments are too big for standard LTL but do not need a whole trailer. A partial or volume load can share a trailer with fewer stops and less handling than LTL. Ask for options when your shipment falls in between.
How does Agant Elite Logistics help?
Agant Elite Logistics looks at the freight, lane and timing and helps choose FTL, LTL or partial options on Ontario and Canada–USA lanes. Share the pallet count, dimensions, weight and dates through the quote form.
Frequently asked questions
- Is FTL faster than LTL?
- FTL usually moves directly from pickup to delivery, while LTL passes through terminals, so FTL is often faster for the same lane.
- Is LTL cheaper than FTL?
- For small shipments, LTL is usually more economical because trailer space is shared; for large shipments, FTL can be better value.
- Does Agant Elite Logistics support both FTL and LTL?
- Yes. The team supports FTL and LTL freight on Ontario and Canada–USA lanes.