Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Cost comparison and shipping advice from Gateway Distribution, full truckload (FTL) in Nevada, NV.
You're shipping from Nevada and trying to decide between LTL and FTL rates. LTL looks cheaper per shipment since you share trailer costs with other shippers. But FTL might actually save money for larger loads or time-sensitive freight moving along I-15 or I-80.
LTL costs less upfront because you only pay for your portion of the trailer space. Other companies fill the remaining space, splitting fuel and driver costs. FTL requires paying for the entire 53-foot trailer, even if your freight doesn't fill it completely.
FTL typically costs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile, with total shipments ranging from $600 for short Nevada hauls to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL rates depend on weight, distance, and freight class. For loads over 15,000 pounds or shipments needing fast delivery between Las Vegas and Reno, FTL often provides better value per pound.
Calculate your total shipping costs, not just the base rate. FTL eliminates extra handling fees, reduces damage risk, and delivers faster since there are no shared stops. Contact Gateway Distribution to compare actual quotes for your specific freight size and Nevada route. They handle both LTL and FTL to give you honest cost comparisons.
The right choice depends on your freight size, timeline, and budget. Large or fragile loads usually benefit from FTL's dedicated service. Smaller shipments with flexible delivery dates work well with LTL's shared approach.
Other things people in Nevada 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 Nevada and the area around it.