Do You Really Need a Full Truck?

Debunking the myth of FTL freight supremacy

As experienced shipping experts and logistics enthusiasts, we understand that choosing the right shipping option can make all the difference for your cargo. Today, let’s dive into the common myth that full truckload is always the best and only choice for your freight.

Myth #1: Full Truckload is Always the Best Deal

The notion that full truckload is always the best deal is a common misconception in the freight shipping industry. While full truckload shipments can indeed offer cost advantages for larger loads, they may not necessarily be the most cost-effective option for every situation. One of the key factors to consider is the size and weight of the shipment.

For smaller loads, opting for LTL (Less than Truckload) shipping can lead to significant cost savings. LTL carriers specialize in consolidating multiple smaller shipments into one truck, sharing the costs among multiple shippers. This means that you only pay for the space your cargo occupies, rather than the entire truck capacity, making it a more budget-friendly choice for smaller shipments.

Furthermore, full truckload shipping may not always be the most efficient choice for shorter distances. In such cases, LTL shipping can provide a more tailored and economical solution, ensuring you don’t pay for unused space.

Myth #2: Full Truckload = Faster Delivery

While the perception may be that full truckload guarantees faster delivery times, the reality is that LTL shipping can be surprisingly efficient in terms of delivery speed. LTL carriers are experts at optimizing routes and combining shipments from multiple customers, resulting in streamlined transportation and reduced transit times.

Additionally, LTL carriers operate extensive networks with strategically located distribution centers. This enables them to offer reliable and frequent departures, making your cargo reach its destination in a timely manner. In many cases, LTL shipping can rival or even surpass full truckload delivery times, especially for regional or short-haul shipments.

Choosing between FTL and LTL should not be solely based on perceived speed but rather on the specific requirements of your shipment. For urgent deliveries, expedited full truckload might be the better choice. However, for most shipments, LTL offers a balanced combination of speed and cost-effectiveness.

Myth #3: Full Truckload = Less Hassle

The belief that full truckload shipments are less hassle-free is not always accurate. While it may seem that dedicating an entire truck to your shipment minimizes potential complexities, managing a full truckload comes with its own set of responsibilities.

For one, coordinating full truckload shipments involves precise timing for pickup and delivery. Ensuring that the truck is loaded and ready to go at the right time requires careful coordination and communication with carriers and drivers.

Moreover, the responsibility of loading and unloading the entire truckload falls on the shipper, which can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Depending on the type of cargo, it may require specialized equipment and manpower, adding to the overall logistics burden.

On the other hand, LTL shipping can significantly reduce the hassle for shippers. LTL carriers can handle the loading and unloading of smaller shipments, alleviating the need for specialized equipment or additional labor. 

For example, if you request a tailgate for either the pickup or delivery (or both) locations, the driver will handle everything up until the point your cargo reaches ground level. That means that with Freightera’s LTL freight carriers, you can leave the logistics to the experts. Everything from the paperwork to the delivery is thought of and handled.

All of this convenience is meant to allow you to focus on other essential aspects of your business, leaving you with minimal worries about your shipment.

In Summary

The belief that full truckload is always superior in terms of cost, speed, and convenience is a myth that should be debunked. 

Understanding the unique requirements of your shipments and working with a reliable freight partner can help you make informed decisions about whether to choose FTL or LTL shipping for optimal results. 

At Freightera’s award-winning B2B Freight Marketplace, you can get all-inclusive, instant freight quotes from 100s of national, as well as local carriers in the USA and Canada. Freightera’s Quote Machine™ gets you both LTL and FTL rates instantly and allows you to ship with a click of a button. 

For more information on LTL freight and how to choose the right carrier, check out our guide on how to choose the right carrier for your LTL shipping needs! Happy shipping! 😀