Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Cost comparison and shipping advice for Missouri businesses from Gateway Distribution.
You're shipping freight in Missouri and trying to decide between LTL and FTL options. The answer depends on your cargo size, timeline, and shipping frequency. Many Missouri businesses assume LTL is always cheaper, but that's not always true.
LTL shipping splits trailer costs among multiple shippers, making it cheaper per pound for smaller loads. You pay only for the space your freight occupies. FTL means you rent the entire 53-foot trailer, whether you fill it or not.
FTL typically costs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile, with total shipments ranging from $500 for short Missouri hauls to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL rates start lower but add fees for handling, fuel, and accessorials. For loads over 15,000 pounds or time-sensitive shipments, FTL often costs less per pound.
Calculate your total shipping costs including all LTL fees before deciding. If you ship regularly between the same Missouri locations, FTL can be more economical. Gateway Distribution can quote both options and show you the real cost difference for your specific route and cargo.
The right choice saves you money and gets your freight delivered faster. FTL gives you direct delivery without multiple stops, while LTL works well for smaller, less urgent shipments.
Other things people in Missouri 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 Missouri and the area around it.