When it’s time to find a cargo carrier, the first step you must do is to identify what type is appropriate. Freight carriers offer two common types: less than a truckload and full truckload. What’s the difference?
The understanding of the peculiar features between these types helps businessmen and cargo senders figure out what they need. It is useful for the effective comparison of carriers’ proposals.
So LTL means a shipment type that doesn’t require filling the whole truck. In other words, your goods are placed in one part of a trailer. The other parts are used to transport products of other cargo senders.
Characteristics of LTL
- The max weight of freight is 4000 pounds.
- Items are packed and delivered on pallets.
- There is no fixed price. The pricing depends on the freight carrier.
- During delivery the trucks make stops to transfer freight. Thus, the shipment is longer.
FTL means a shipment type that requires filling the whole truck with your goods only.
Characteristics of FTL
- The average weight of freight is 15000 pounds and more.
- An entire trailer is full of the products of one company.
- The goods can be packed in tubs, bags, and boxes.
- The truck doesn’t make any stops and goes straight to the destination point.
- It is the most suitable variant when you need to deliver fragile items.
What helps you to make a choice?
The first thing that helps to choose between two common types of shipment is the amount of goods. If you don’t have enough freight to fill the trailer, you need LTL. One more point is the price of the service.
Choosing a cargo carrier, take into account:
- discounts and prices;
- additional services;
- help with packaging;
- reputation and insurance.