Is LTL cheaper than FTL freight?
Straight answers about shipping costs from Gateway Distribution, full truckload (FTL) in Washington, WA.
You're shipping cargo from Washington and trying to decide between LTL and FTL. The choice affects your budget and delivery time. LTL splits truck space with other shippers, while FTL gives you the entire trailer.
LTL costs less per shipment because you share truck space with other companies. You pay only for the space your freight uses. FTL costs more upfront because you rent the entire 53-foot trailer, even if your cargo doesn't fill it completely.
FTL typically runs $1.50 to $2.50 per mile in Washington, with total costs from $500 for short hauls around Seattle to $3,000+ for cross-country trips. LTL charges by weight and distance, often costing less for smaller loads. But FTL becomes more economical when your freight weighs over 15,000 pounds or fills more than half a trailer.
Calculate your freight's weight and cubic feet first. If you're shipping along I-5 or I-90 corridors and your load is time-sensitive or fragile, FTL usually makes sense despite higher costs. Gateway Distribution can quote both options and show you the real numbers for your specific route and cargo.
With the right choice, your freight arrives on schedule and within budget. FTL gives you faster transit and better protection. LTL saves money on smaller shipments while still reaching your destination safely.
Other things people in Washington 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 Washington and the area around it.