Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Honest cost comparison from Gateway Distribution, full truckload shipping in Iowa, IA.
You're shipping a large load across Iowa and wondering if LTL makes more financial sense than booking a full truck. The answer depends on your cargo size, timeline, and how much you value speed over shared trailer costs.
LTL shipping splits trailer costs among multiple shippers, making it cheaper per pound for smaller loads. But when your freight fills most of a 53-foot trailer, those savings disappear. You end up paying for space you're using anyway, plus extra handling fees and longer transit times through multiple terminals.
FTL typically costs $2-4 per mile, with total shipments ranging from $800 for short Iowa hauls to $3,500+ for cross-country runs. You pay for the entire truck capacity regardless of weight. LTL charges by weight and distance but adds fuel surcharges, handling fees, and accessorial charges that can exceed FTL rates for large shipments.
Calculate your breakeven point by comparing LTL quotes against FTL rates for your specific load size and route. If your freight weighs over 15,000 pounds or fills more than half a trailer, FTL usually wins on both cost and speed. Gateway Distribution can quote both options for your Iowa shipment and show you the real numbers.
With the right choice, your freight reaches its destination faster and cheaper. FTL gives you dedicated service with no extra stops, while LTL works best for smaller loads that don't justify a full truck.
Other things people in Iowa ask
oversized freight shipping
Flatbed trucks handle oversized cargo like machinery, steel beams, and construction equipment. Get the exact dimensions and weight before you call. Gateway Distribution specializes in flatbed transport for oversized freight that won't fit in enclosed trailers.
LTL vs full truckload
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you need faster transit. LTL costs less for small shipments but takes longer due to multiple stops.
consistent monthly freight shipping
Set up a dedicated trucking contract. You get the same drivers and trucks on your schedule. Gateway Distribution builds custom routes around your shipping calendar so you never compete for truck space.
flatbed vs enclosed trailer shipping
Use flatbed for anything over 8 feet tall, oddly shaped, or needing crane loading. Enclosed trailers protect from weather but limit height and loading options. Measure your cargo first, then pick the trailer type.
expedited freight shipping cost
Expedited freight typically costs 50-150% more than standard shipping, depending on how fast you need it. Same-day service costs the most. Get quotes from multiple carriers and ask exactly what expedited means - some just mean faster loading, not faster transit.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles full truckload (ftl) in Iowa and the area around it.