What is Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping?
When there is enough cargo to fill an entire trailer, full truckload shipping is a cost-effective option for supply chains. Freight shipments that exceed 5,000 to 10,000 pounds are typically suited for full truckloads. Goods that require climate control, flatbeds or special shipping considerations as well as unpackaged items, bulk shipments and breakbulk shipments are also best for full truckload transportation.
Since there’s no need for transferring shipments, full truckload freight shipping is much faster than LTL shipping, which makes several stops before reaching the final delivery location.
Types of Truckload Shipping Vehicles
When shipping freight by a full truckload, there are several transportation options available.
Dry Van (Enclosed) Trailer
These trailers are ideal for protecting freight from harmful elements due to road or weather conditions.
Refrigerated (Reefer) Trailer
Reefers are temperature-controlled and perfect for transporting cold or frozen goods. Because of the extra fuel needed to control the temperature, these trailers are more expensive than other options.
Flatbed Carrier
Flatbeds are versatile, open bed trailers that are typically used to transport large items like manufacturing or construction equipment.
Step Deck Trailer
Also known as drop decks, these trailers are similar to the flatbed carrier design and are intended to transport freight with height restrictions.
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailer
For long or tall freight, RGNs are a popular choice due to their detachable front that allows the trailer to be dropped to the ground to create a ramp.
BENEFITS OF FTL FREIGHT SHIPPING
If shipments are big enough to fill an entire trailer, there are several key advantages to choosing FTL shipping.
First, FTL shipments are unloaded and reloaded less often than LTL shipments, which means there is less chance of damage to the cargo. It can also be more cost effective to ship items in one full truckload as opposed to booking several less than truckload shipments. Finally, full truckloads can arrive at their final destination quicker than LTL shipments since there aren’t as many stops along the route.
Determining the Cost of FTL Freight Shipping
Full truckload shipping rates are dependent on several variables including:
- Mileage
- Trucking Lane Availability
- Seasonality
- Lead Time
- Fuel Costs
The type of trailer you need will also affect cost. For example, if you are shipping a full truckload of frozen goods, you will need a refrigerated trailer to preserve the items. The energy needed to control the temperature in the trailer will impact fuel requirements, which can result in a more expensive transport.
Get the Most Out of FTL Freight Shipping
When shipping full truckload freight, follow the best practices below to streamline the process.
Protect All Cargo
Make sure to use the correct type of packaging to ensure items arrive at the destination in good condition. This is especially important since failing to properly package goods could void carrier liability coverage.
Prepare for Loading and Unloading
Packing up the full truckload will likely be the responsibility of the shipper. If this is the case, planning the load layout and coordinating dock schedules will be crucial.
Provide Accurate Information
Exact rates and transit times are essential when it comes to planning a shipment. To receive the correct information, shippers need to also provide the correct information. This includes knowing the correct sizes and weights of cargo, which will help shipments get to their destination on time and at the right price.
Find the Best FTL Freight Shipping Rates with Transportation Management System (TMS)
Kuebix makes it easy to find and compare the best full truckload shipping rates and options for your supply chain. With three transportation management system plan options — including Kuebix Shipper, a free TMS — businesses of all sizes can experience increased efficiency, cost savings and opportunities for revenue generation.
Freight Carriers in the Network
With Kuebix TMS, it’s easy for shippers to find spot rates and compare competitive FTL freight carrier rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does FTL differ from LTL shipping?
A: FTL shipping is intended for shippers with enough product to fill an entire trailer. LTL (less than truckload) is for shipments that don’t have enough product to fill an entire trailer.
Q: What is the maximum amount of weight a truck can carry?
A: The average weight a full truckload can carry is usually between 42,000 and 44,000 pounds. However, dry vans can haul up to 45,000 pounds.
