FTL (Full Truckload)
FTL (Full Truckload) is a freight shipping method where a single shipper's goods fill an entire trailer. The shipper pays for exclusive use of the truck, and freight moves directly from origin to destination without intermediate stops.
In Depth
FTL is faster, simpler, and less likely to result in freight damage than LTL because there is no terminal handling or multiple pickups and deliveries. FTL rates are negotiated directly based on miles, fuel prices, and market supply/demand.
FTL is more cost-effective for heavy, dense, or high-volume shipments. The break-even between LTL and FTL typically falls at around 10,000–15,000 lbs depending on density.
Usage Example
Example: 'The 24,000 lb shipment was too large for LTL pricing, so we booked it as FTL — cheaper and faster.'
Related Calculators
Related Terms
LTL (Less Than Truckload)
LTL (Less Than Truckload) is a freight shipping method where multiple shippers share space on the same truck, each paying for only the portion of the trailer they use. LTL is used for shipments too large for parcel carriers but too small to fill a full trailer.
Rate Per Mile
Rate per mile (RPM) is the gross revenue a carrier earns per mile driven. It is calculated by dividing the total load rate by total miles (loaded + deadhead) and is the most common profitability metric in trucking.
Broker
A freight broker is a licensed intermediary that connects shippers who need to move freight with carriers who have available capacity. Brokers earn a commission (the spread between what shippers pay and what carriers receive).
Frequently Asked Questions
When is FTL cheaper than LTL?
FTL becomes cost-competitive when freight weighs 10,000+ lbs or fills more than 60–70% of a standard trailer.