Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Cost comparison and shipping advice from Gateway Distribution, full truckload (FTL) in Kentucky, KY.
You're shipping from Kentucky and trying to figure out whether LTL or FTL makes more sense for your budget. LTL splits trailer costs between multiple shippers, but FTL might actually save money depending on your load size and timeline.
LTL costs less per shipment because you share trailer space with other shippers. You only pay for the space your freight uses, not the entire 53-foot trailer. FTL requires paying for the whole truck, even if your cargo doesn't fill it completely.
FTL typically runs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile in Kentucky, with total costs ranging from $500 for local hauls to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL charges by weight and distance but adds handling fees and longer transit times due to multiple stops.
Calculate your breakeven point by comparing LTL rates to FTL quotes for your specific load. If your freight weighs over 15,000 pounds or fills more than half a trailer, FTL often costs less overall. Gateway Distribution can quote both options so you see the real numbers for your Kentucky shipment.
Choosing the right shipping method keeps your freight moving on schedule and on budget. FTL delivers faster with less handling, while LTL works well for smaller loads that aren't time-sensitive.
Other things people in Kentucky 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.
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Gateway Distribution handles full truckload (ftl) in Kentucky and the area around it.