Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Straight talk about shipping costs from Gateway Distribution, full truckload (FTL) in Mississippi, MS.
You're shipping a large load from Mississippi and trying to figure out if you should pay for a full truck or split costs with other shippers. LTL looks cheaper upfront, but the math gets complicated when you factor in your actual needs and timeline.
LTL costs less per shipment because you share trailer space with other customers. You only pay for the space your freight takes up, not the whole truck. But LTL means multiple stops, longer transit times, and more handling of your cargo.
FTL typically costs $1.50 to $3.50 per mile in Mississippi, with total shipments ranging from $800 for short hauls along I-55 to over $3,000 for cross-country runs. You pay for the entire truck capacity, but you get direct delivery with no shared stops. For loads over 10,000 pounds or time-sensitive shipments, FTL often delivers better value despite the higher upfront cost.
Calculate your total cost including time, risk, and handling. If your shipment fills more than half a trailer or needs to arrive by a specific date, call Gateway Distribution for an FTL quote. Compare that against LTL pricing that includes potential delays and extra handling fees.
Once you choose the right shipping method, your freight moves predictably and arrives when you need it. No surprises, no extra fees, no wondering if you picked the wrong option.
Other things people in Mississippi 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 Mississippi and the area around it.