LTL vs FTL Shipping: Which One Do You Need?

Two of the most common questions we get at Legend Freight Systems are "what is the difference between LTL and FTL?" and "which one do I need?" Here is the short version, from a Burbank, California freight broker and carrier that quotes both every day.

LTL: less-than-truckload

Your freight shares a trailer with shipments from other companies. You pay for the portion of the trailer you use, which makes LTL economical for smaller loads. The trade-off is handling: LTL freight is typically loaded and unloaded more than once on its way to you, and schedules are built around the carrier's network rather than your dock alone.

LTL fits: smaller shipments, flexible delivery windows, freight that is packaged to handle a few touches.

FTL: full truckload

Your freight gets a dedicated trailer. It is loaded once at origin and unloaded once at destination, with no other shippers' freight on board and no extra stops. FTL costs more than a small LTL shipment, but for larger loads it is often the better value, and it is the right call whenever timing, fragility or security matter.

FTL fits: large shipments, time-sensitive or expedited freight, fragile or high-value cargo, and anything that should not be handled in transit.

How to decide

1. Size. If the shipment fills a meaningful part of a trailer, FTL usually wins on price per pallet anyway.
2. Timing. A fixed delivery window points to FTL.
3. Handling. Fragile, high-value or oddly shaped freight travels better on a dedicated trailer.
4. Budget. Small, sturdy, flexible shipments are where LTL shines.

Still not sure? Tell us what you are shipping and we will recommend one.

Either way, you get

24/7 live support, an LFS Tracking ID with a live map on every shipment, carriers vetted for authority, insurance and safety, and our 100% No-Fail Guarantee.

Get a quote

Our quote page has separate LTL and FTL forms. You can also call +1 (626) 866-7078 or email TMS@LegendFreightSystems.com.

Frequently asked questions

What is LTL shipping?

Less-than-truckload shipping moves smaller freight that shares trailer space with other shipments. You pay for the space you use.

What is FTL shipping?

Full-truckload shipping gives your freight a dedicated trailer. It moves on its own, with no other shippers' freight on board.

When should I choose FTL over LTL?

Choose FTL when the shipment is large, time-sensitive, fragile or high-value, or when it needs to move without extra handling or stops. Choose LTL when the shipment is small and the schedule has some flexibility.

Can Legend Freight Systems quote both?

Yes. Our quote page has separate LTL and FTL forms, and our team can tell you which fits a specific shipment. Requests are answered in under 5 minutes from 6 AM to midnight Pacific.