LTL vs full truckload which should I choose?
Freight shipping guidance from Gateway Distribution in Louisiana, LA.
You have freight to ship in Louisiana but can't decide between LTL and full truckload. LTL means sharing trailer space with other shipments. Full truckload gives you the entire 53-foot trailer. The choice depends on your shipment size and timing needs.
LTL works for smaller shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Your freight shares space with other companies' cargo. Full truckload makes sense when you have 15 or more pallets, or when your shipment weighs over 15,000 pounds. You get the entire trailer to yourself.
LTL costs less for small loads but takes longer. Your freight stops at multiple terminals between Louisiana and the destination. Full truckload costs more upfront but moves faster. Direct delivery from your dock to the receiver with no stops along Interstate 10, I-20, or I-55.
Count your pallets and weigh your freight first. If you have fewer than 12 pallets, choose LTL. If you need fast delivery or have 15+ pallets, book full truckload. Gateway Distribution can quote both options so you see the real cost difference for your specific load.
You'll know exactly what your freight will cost and when it arrives. LTL gives you budget-friendly shipping for smaller loads. Full truckload delivers speed and security for larger shipments across Louisiana and beyond.
Other things people in Louisiana 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 Louisiana and the area around it.