LTL vs full truckload: which should I choose?
Clear guidance on freight options from Gateway Distribution in Kentucky, KY.
You have freight to ship from Kentucky but you're not sure whether to book a full truck or share space with other shipments. You want the most cost-effective option but don't know which service fits your load size and timeline.
The choice between LTL and full truckload depends on your shipment size and delivery needs. LTL works for smaller loads under 10,000 pounds or fewer than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense when you have 15 or more pallets, or when your freight fills most of a 53-foot trailer.
LTL costs less for small shipments because you only pay for the space you use. However, it takes longer since the truck makes multiple stops to pick up and deliver other customers' freight. Full truckload costs more upfront but gives you the entire trailer and direct delivery from origin to destination.
Look at your shipment size first. If you have under 12 pallets, start with LTL quotes. If you have 15 or more pallets, or if you need faster delivery across Kentucky's I-65, I-71, or I-75 corridors, request full truckload pricing. Gateway Distribution can quote both options so you can compare actual costs for your specific freight.
Once you choose the right service, your freight moves efficiently at the best price point. LTL shipments typically take 3-5 business days while full truckload delivers in 1-2 days depending on distance within Kentucky.
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.
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.
dedicated trucking cost vs regular shipping
Compare your total monthly freight spend to a dedicated contract. Include the hidden costs like delays, damage, and staff time spent booking trucks. Most companies with 20+ shipments per month save money going dedicated.
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.
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.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles full truckload (ftl) in Kentucky and the area around it.