LTL vs. FTL Shipping: How to Choose the Best Freight Option

Published: February 27, 2025

Full Truckload (FTL) vs. Less Than Truckload (LTL): Which is Right for Your Freight?

Shipping freight can be complex, and understanding the differences between LTL (Less Than Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload) is crucial for optimizing your shipping strategy. Whether you’re managing shipments in Calgary, across Canada, or internationally, each method has its unique advantages depending on your shipment’s size, urgency, and budget. At Ramsay Customs & Logistics, we’re here to guide you through these options to help streamline your logistics.

In this post, we’ll explore what sets LTL and FTL apart, the benefits of each, and how to determine which one best suits your needs.

What is LTL Freight Shipping?

LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping is designed for smaller shipments that don’t require the entire truck. Multiple shippers share space in the same truck, making it an ideal option for those with freight volumes under a full truckload. This could mean anything from a few pallets to a smaller shipment that takes up less than 12 linear feet of truck space.

The most significant advantage of LTL is its cost efficiency. Since your shipment shares space with other shipments, you only pay for the space you use. This method is perfect for businesses that don’t need to move large quantities of goods but still want a reliable way to get their products where they need to go.

Key Benefits of LTL:

  • Cost-Effective: By sharing truck space with others, you only pay for the portion your goods occupy, lowering overall shipping costs.
  • Flexibility: LTL can accommodate various shipment sizes, making it perfect for small businesses or those with fluctuating freight needs.
  • Lower Risk: Though it involves more handling, LTL is often well-suited for less time-sensitive shipments that can handle the possibility of more handling. 

Understanding FTL Freight Shipping

On the other hand, FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is for large shipments that require the entire truck to themselves. FTL is a more suitable option if your shipment is too large for LTL or requires expedited delivery. Unlike LTL, where multiple shipments require multiple stops, FTL shipments don’t stop along the way—the truck goes directly from the pick-up point to the delivery destination.

For businesses with large, high-priority shipments, FTL offers speed and reliability. It’s an excellent choice for time-sensitive deliveries that need to arrive quickly, or for shipments that exceed the volume typically covered by LTL.

Key Benefits of FTL:

  • Speed: With no stops along the way, FTL shipments are faster than LTL.
  • Exclusive Use of Truck: Your freight is the only cargo on the truck, minimizing the risk of delays or damage.
  • Predictability: Since there’s only one shipment, you’ll have more control over delivery times and schedules. 

When to Choose LTL vs. FTL Freight

Now that we understand the key differences, how do you decide which method best suits your business needs? Here are some guidelines to help you make the right decision based on your shipment’s size, timing, and budget.

Choose LTL When:

  • You have smaller shipments: If your shipment doesn’t fill an entire truck, LTL is a more budget-friendly option.
  • Your delivery isn’t time-sensitive: LTL shipments often take longer due to multiple stops along the route. If you can afford a flexible timeline, LTL is a great way to save money.
  • You want to minimize upfront costs: LTL allows you to pay for only the space your goods occupy, which makes it perfect for businesses that don’t consistently ship large quantities.

Choose FTL When:

  • You have large, bulky shipments: If your shipment is over 6 pallets, or larger equipment, FTL will offer better value.
  • You need faster delivery: FTL shipments are quicker since they travel directly from point A to point B.
  • You need exclusivity and security: FTL gives your goods dedicated space on the truck, ensuring there’s no risk of damage from other shipments.

How Ramsay Customs & Logistics Can Help

At Ramsay Customs & Logistics, we understand that choosing between LTL and FTL freight shipping can be tricky, especially when trying to balance cost, delivery time, and shipment volume. Whether you’re shipping within Calgary, across Canada, or internationally, our expert team can help you determine the best shipping solution tailored to your needs.

We’ll work with you to analyze your shipment requirements, advise you on the most cost-effective shipping methods, and ensure timely deliveries every time.

Contact Us for Your Freight Needs!

If you’re ready to streamline your freight shipping process and make the most of LTL or FTL options, get in touch with Ramsay Customs & Logistics today! Our team of experts is ready to assist you with all your shipping needs, providing you with tailored solutions that fit your business requirements.Reach out now to freight@ramsaylogistics.com for a consultation, and let us handle the logistics, so you can focus on growing your business!

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