Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Cost comparison guide for Vermont shippers from Gateway Distribution.
You're shipping from Vermont and trying to decide between LTL and FTL. LTL looks cheaper per shipment since you share trailer costs. But FTL might actually save money for large loads or time-sensitive deliveries.
LTL costs less upfront because you split the trailer with other shippers. You pay only for the space your freight takes up. FTL costs more because you rent the entire 53-foot trailer, even if your load doesn't fill it.
FTL typically runs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile in Vermont, with total costs from $500 for short hauls to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, and freight class. Large shipments over 10,000 pounds often cost less with FTL than LTL per pound.
Calculate your cost per pound for both options. Include hidden LTL fees like fuel surcharges and handling charges. For fragile or time-sensitive freight, FTL eliminates multiple stops and handling. Gateway Distribution can quote both LTL and FTL rates so you see the real numbers.
The right choice depends on your specific shipment size, timeline, and freight type. You'll ship with confidence knowing you picked the most cost-effective option for your Vermont business.
Other things people in Vermont 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 Vermont and the area around it.