LTL vs FTL: meaning and differences
LTL (less than truckload) means your freight shares a truck with other shippers and is priced by weight, distance and freight class. FTL (full truckload) means you book the whole trailer, usually a 53 ft dry van, for a flat rate. LTL suits about 1–6 pallets; above roughly 10–12 pallets or 15,000 lb, a full truckload is often cheaper and faster.
LTL meaning
LTL stands for less than truckload. Carriers collect shipments from many shippers, sort them at terminals and deliver them on shared trucks. You pay for your part of the space. Rates depend on weight, distance, accessorial services and the freight class, which since July 19, 2025 is based more heavily on density.
FTL meaning
FTL (also called TL, full truckload) means one shipper uses the whole trailer. The truck goes directly from pickup to delivery without terminal transfers, so handling is minimal and transit is faster. A 53 ft trailer holds 26–30 standard pallets; see pallets on a 53 ft trailer.
LTL vs FTL compared
| LTL | FTL | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical size | 1–6 pallets, 150–15,000 lb | 10+ pallets or over 15,000 lb |
| Pricing | Weight, distance, freight class, accessorials | Flat rate per trip or per mile |
| Transit | Slower: terminal transfers | Faster: direct |
| Handling and risk | More handling, more risk of damage | Loaded once, sealed |
| Paperwork | Accurate class and dimensions are essential | No freight class needed |
The ocean freight equivalents are LCL and FCL; see LCL vs FCL.
Frequently asked questions
What does LTL mean?
Less than truckload: freight that does not fill a trailer and shares space with other shipments.
What does FTL mean?
Full truckload: one shipment uses the whole trailer.
When is FTL cheaper than LTL?
Often above about 10–12 pallets or 15,000 lb, but it depends on lanes and current rates. Get both quotes for mid-size loads.
What does LTL stand for in shipping?
Less than truckload.