FTL or LTL shipping?

Start with your load.

Full truckload (FTL) reserves a trailer for one shipper. Less-than-truckload (LTL) shares trailer space with other shipments. A small pallet load often suits LTL; a larger load, a handling restriction or a particular delivery schedule may make FTL worth comparing.

There is no pallet count that settles the choice for every shipment. Packaged dimensions, total weight, stacking rules, loading access and the receiving deadline all matter. A bulky light shipment can use more space than a smaller, heavier one.

Measure the packed freight.

Use the shipment as it will be collected. Packaging, pallet overhang and stacking restrictions affect the space needed and the options available.

• Give the length, width, height and weight of each different packaged item or pallet.
• Include the total piece count and total shipment weight.
• Say whether stacking is allowed, including any height or weight limit.
• Identify fragile goods, food-handling instructions, hazardous materials or temperature requirements.
• Describe forklift, dock, side-loading or overhead-loading needs at both locations.

Compare the full quote.

For FTL, review the trailer, route, pickup date, capacity and any additional stops. For LTL, the description of the goods, packaged size, weight and applicable freight classification can affect the price. Accurate details help avoid a quote based on the wrong service.

Check whether liftgates, appointments, residential or limited-access deliveries, waiting time and other requested services are included. Ask how a change in the shipment details would affect the quote, and how long the quoted rate remains available.

Compare the same pickup and delivery requirements on each option. A lower base transport charge may come with handling or service charges that change the total.

Check the delivery plan.

Tell us whether your dates are flexible or fixed. Review pickup hours, appointment requirements and the quoted transit schedule before booking. Ask whether a delivery time is an estimate or a specifically confirmed service.

If you are comparing volume LTL or partial truckload, check the space allocation, handling and scheduling arrangements. These options share capacity, but the service details differ by booking.

Send the shipment details.

Start with pickup and delivery ZIP codes, the goods, packaged dimensions, weight and ready date. Add site access, loading instructions and your receiving deadline. If you are unsure which service to choose, explain those requirements to our team so the options can be reviewed.

Your freight can be a single shipment or recurring work. For a repeating lane, include how often it moves and whether the volume or equipment requirement changes.