LTL vs full truckload: which should I choose?
Clear answers on when to book a full truck vs shared space in Maryland, MD.
You need to ship freight but aren't sure if you should book an entire truck or share trailer space with other shipments. The choice affects both your shipping cost and delivery time. Maryland businesses face this decision daily when moving goods along I-95 or through Baltimore's commercial districts.
The decision comes down to shipment size and timing needs. LTL means your freight shares trailer space with other customers' cargo, making multiple stops along the route. Full truckload gives you the entire 53-foot trailer for direct delivery from origin to destination.
LTL costs less for smaller shipments but takes longer due to multiple pickup and delivery stops. Full truckload costs more upfront but offers faster transit and better protection since your freight doesn't get handled at transfer terminals. The break-even point typically falls around 12-15 pallets or 10,000-15,000 pounds.
Choose LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or fewer than 12 pallets when you can wait an extra 2-3 days for delivery. Pick full truckload for 15+ pallets, time-sensitive deliveries, or fragile freight that needs minimal handling. Gateway Distribution can quote both options and help you decide based on your specific shipment details and timeline.
Once you pick the right service, your freight moves efficiently without overpaying for unused trailer space or accepting unnecessary delays. You get predictable costs and delivery times that match your business needs.
Other things people in Maryland 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 Maryland and the area around it.