Full Truckload Services vs Less Than Truckload (LTL) Shipping: Which Option is Right for You?

Introduction: Navigating the Freight Decision

When it comes to shipping freight, choosing between full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) services can significantly impact your supply chain’s cost-efficiency, speed and reliability. Whether you’re moving goods across Canada, the U.S., or Mexico, selecting the right freight method is crucial.

At First Frontier Logistics, we support businesses with tailored solutions across both FTL and LTL shipping modes. Let’s break down the differences and guide you toward the best fit for your logistics needs.

FTL vs LTL: What’s the Core Difference?

The primary difference between full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipping lies in how freight is consolidated and moved.

• Full Truckload Services are used when a single shipper fills or nearly fills the entire capacity of a truck. With FTL, you’re paying for exclusive use of the truck, meaning your freight is the only cargo on board. This dedicated vehicle transports goods directly from origin to destination, with no intermediate stops or transfers. It’s ideal for high-volume, urgent or sensitive shipments.

• Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping, on the other hand, combines shipments from multiple businesses into one truck. Each shipper only pays for the portion of space their cargo occupies. This makes LTL a more cost-effective choice for smaller shipments, but it can lead to longer transit times due to multiple stops and transfers along the route.

Key differences to consider:

• Shipment Size: FTL is best for large or urgent loads, while LTL suits smaller freight that doesn’t fill a trailer.
• Cost Structure: FTL typically charges a flat rate per truckload. Intra or Interstate LTL pricing is based on freight class, size, weight and distance. Canada-USA LTL is priced differently and can be quicker and more cost effective.
• Transit Time: FTL offers faster, direct routes. LTL involves hub-and-spoke routing with potential delays. Canada-USA LTL can compare favourably to FTL transit time.
• Handling: FTL reduces risk of damage with fewer touchpoints. LTL shipments are handled more frequently at terminals. Canada-USA LTL can be similar to FTL in that there is no additional handling.

Understanding these distinctions helps businesses align their logistics strategy with both operational needs and budget constraints.

When to Choose Full Truckload Services

Opt for FTL when:

• Your shipment fills most or all of a 53’ trailer
• You need faster delivery without stops or transfers
• Your cargo is fragile, high-value or time-sensitive
• You require dedicated capacity and fewer touchpoints

With FTL, you benefit from a direct route, fewer handling points, and a lower risk of damage or delay—ideal for time-critical or high-value goods.

When Less Than Truckload Shipping Makes Sense

LTL shipping is cost-effective for:

• Smaller freight loads that don’t require an entire trailer
• Businesses with frequent but lower-volume shipments
• Budget-conscious shippers looking to share transport costs
• Canada-USA LTL can be cost effective and provide improved transit times over traditional LTL

At First Frontier, our LTL shipping in Canada and cross-border LTL services leverage strong carrier networks and digital tracking to ensure dependable delivery, even when your freight shares space with others. We work with you to find the right solution for your needs.

Cost Efficiency vs Speed: Finding the Right Balance

Choosing between FTL and LTL often comes down to cost vs urgency:

• FTL offers speed and security, ideal for tight deadlines
• LTL offers flexibility and affordability, ideal for planned, smaller shipments

It’s not a one-size-fits-all decision. Understanding your shipment profile and logistics priorities is key.

How Each Method Impacts Logistics Performance

• FTL improves delivery consistency and reduces dwell time at terminals.
• LTL offers scalability for growing businesses without overpaying for unused space.
• Both modes can be optimized with smart routing, digital tracking and freight consolidation strategies.

Working with a trusted provider like First Frontier ensures that whether you’re shipping full or partial loads, your logistics flow stays agile and efficient.

FTL or LTL? Let’s Make the Right Call Together

Whichever shipping method suits your needs—FTL, LTL, or even a combination of both—our team is here to help. We’ll assess your freight profile, timeline, and budget to match you with the right solution.

Contact First Frontier today to talk to one of cross-border logistics specialists o request a quote directly from our website. We’ll find a solution that fits your business needs!