Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Cost comparison for South Carolina shipping from Gateway Distribution.
You're comparing shipping options in South Carolina and wondering if LTL saves money over full truckload. The answer depends on your cargo size, timeline, and what you're moving. Each method works better for different situations.
LTL costs less per shipment because you share trailer space with other shippers. You pay only for the space your freight uses. FTL means you rent the entire 53-foot trailer, even if your cargo doesn't fill it completely.
FTL typically costs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile in South Carolina, with total shipments ranging from $600 for short hauls to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL charges by weight and distance but adds handling fees and longer transit times. Large shipments over 15,000 pounds often cost less with FTL.
Calculate your total freight weight and measure your timeline needs. If you're shipping fragile items, time-sensitive cargo, or filling most of a trailer, FTL usually provides better value. Gateway Distribution can quote both options so you see the real numbers for your specific shipment from South Carolina.
With the right choice, your freight moves efficiently at the lowest total cost. You avoid overpaying for unused space or dealing with damaged goods from multiple handling stops.
Other things people in South Carolina 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 South Carolina and the area around it.