Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
The real cost breakdown for Virginia shippers choosing between full truckload and LTL.
You're shipping freight in Virginia and trying to decide between LTL and FTL. LTL looks cheaper per shipment since you share trailer costs with other shippers. But FTL might actually save you money depending on your load size and timing needs.
LTL appears less expensive because you only pay for the space your freight uses in a shared trailer. Multiple shippers split the cost of one truck. FTL costs more upfront since you pay for the entire 53-foot trailer, whether you fill it or not.
FTL typically costs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile in Virginia, with total shipments ranging from $800 for short hauls along I-95 to over $3,000 for cross-country trips. LTL charges by weight and distance, often $0.15 to $0.75 per pound. But LTL adds handling fees, fuel surcharges, and accessorial charges that can double your base rate.
Calculate your total cost per pound for both options. Include all fees, not just the base rate. If your shipment fills more than half a trailer, FTL usually wins. For time-sensitive deliveries on Virginia's major routes like I-64 or I-81, FTL eliminates the multiple stops that slow down LTL. Gateway Distribution can quote both options and show you the real numbers.
The right choice depends on your specific shipment. FTL gives you faster transit times, less handling, and often lower total costs for larger loads. You'll know exactly when your freight arrives without the delays that come with shared trailer space.
Other things people in Virginia 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 Virginia and the area around it.