LTL vs FTL vs PTL Freight: Which Is Right for Your Business?

When it’s time to ship heavy equipment, pallets, or large machinery, one of the first questions every business asks is: “Should I choose LTL or FTL?”

But there’s also a third option that can save time and money: PTL (Partial Truckload).

Let’s make freight shipping simple so you can pick the right mode.

What is LTL Freight Shipping??

LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) means your freight shares truck space with other shippers.

It’s best for smaller loads usually 1–6 pallets, under 8 linear feet, or less than 10,000 lbs.

When to choose LTL:

• You’re shipping smaller orders regularly.

• You want lower cost over dedicated space.

• You don’t mind slightly longer transit times.
  

Average cost: Typically $0.40–$0.80 per mile.Transit time: 3–6 business days (depending on route and carrier).

LTL is perfect for restaurants, bakeries, and small manufacturers sending frequent smaller loads that don’t need an entire truck.

What is FTL Freight Shipping??

FTL (Full Truckload) means your freight uses the entire trailer nothing else shares the space.

It’s ideal for 10+ pallets, fragile or high-value equipment, or time-sensitive freight.

When to choose FTL:

• You need a dedicated truck (no transfers, no mixing).

• Freight fills more than half the trailer (20+ linear feet).

• You have tight delivery windows or sensitive goods.

  
  

Average cost: $1.50+ per mile (varies by lane and season).

Transit time: 1–4 business days usually direct from A to B.

FTL is common for machinery, construction materials, and full warehouse relocations.

What Is PTL or Partial Truckload Shipping?

Here’s where we are experts in.

PTL (Partial Truckload) also called Volume LTL bridges the gap between LTL and FTL.Your freight doesn’t fill an entire truck, but it’s too big or heavy for standard LTL.

When to choose PTL:

• Freight is 8–20 linear feet, or 6–10 pallets.

• You want lower cost than FTL but less handling than LTL.

• You’re shipping oversized or non-stackable equipment.

  
  

Average cost: $0.70–$1.20 per mile.Transit time: 2–5 business days.

PTL often moves on flatbeds, conestogas, or straight trucks great for bakery and restaurant equipment, agricultural parts, and trade show freight.

ltl vs ftl vs ptl freight comparison

How to Choose the Right Freight Mode

Here’s a quick decision checklist:

• LTL: Under 6 pallets, 8 ft or less, lowest cost per pound.

• PTL: 8–20 ft long, 6–10 pallets, awkward or fragile freight.

• FTL: Over 20 ft, full trailer, or very time-sensitive loads.

If your freight fits in a small corner, go LTL. If it fills half the truck, go PTL. If it fills the truck, go FTL.

No matter what mode you choose, proper loading keeps freight safe

• Use dunnage to protect the base.

• Add corner boards and stretch wrap.

• Request Conestoga or tarps for weather protection.

• Use pallet jacks or forklifts for loading stability.

  
  

  
  

No matter your freight size, GoCarga can move it safely and affordably.