LTL vs full truckload: which should I choose?
Clear guidance from Gateway Distribution, less than truckload (LTL) specialists in Florida, FL.
You need to ship freight but aren't sure if you should book a full truck or share space with other shipments. With Florida's busy I-75 and I-95 corridors handling thousands of loads daily, choosing the wrong option costs you money or delays your delivery.
The choice comes down to shipment size and timing needs. LTL works when your freight weighs under 10,000 pounds or fills fewer than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you control the entire trailer space. LTL carriers combine multiple shipments on one truck, while full truckload dedicates the entire trailer to your freight alone.
LTL costs significantly less for smaller shipments because you split truck expenses with other shippers. Expect to pay $1-3 per pound for LTL versus $1,500-4,000 for a full truck. Full truckload becomes cheaper per pound once you hit 15,000+ pounds. Transit time differs too: LTL takes 3-7 days due to multiple pickup and delivery stops, while full truckload typically delivers in 1-3 days.
Measure your freight dimensions and weight first. Count your pallets and check if everything fits standard pallet sizes. If you have under 12 pallets or need the lowest cost, choose LTL. If you have 15+ pallets or need faster delivery, book full truckload. Gateway Distribution handles both options throughout Florida and can quote either service based on your exact needs.
The right choice saves you money and meets your delivery timeline. LTL gives you professional freight handling at a fraction of full truckload cost for smaller shipments. Full truckload provides faster transit and dedicated space when you have enough freight to justify the expense.
Other things people in Florida ask
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
when to book freight shipping
Book LTL 1-2 days ahead for standard service. Full truckload needs 2-5 days notice depending on season. Peak seasons (harvest, back-to-school, holidays) require more lead time. Expedited services can often pick up same day.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Florida and the area around it.