logo

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL)

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) trucking is a cost-effective freight shipping method where multiple shippers share space on the same truck trailer, each paying only for the portion of the trailer their cargo occupies. This method is ideal for shipments typically weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds that do not require the full capacity of a truck. LTL carriers use a hub-and-spoke network, consolidating shipments at central terminals for efficient transport and delivery.

Full Truckload (FTL)

Full Truckload (FTL) in trucking refers to shipping services where a single shipment occupies an entire trailer, dedicated to one customer, rather than being combined with others. Ideal for large, heavy, or delicate cargo (typically 10+ pallets or >20,000 lbs), FTL provides faster transit times, increased security, and fewer stops.
Key Aspects of FTL Shipping

  • Dedicated Transportation: The truck is dedicated to one customer’s load from pickup to delivery, minimizing damage risk.
  • Faster Delivery: Because the truck goes directly to the destination without stopping to consolidate other goods, FTL is generally quicker than Less-Than-Truckload (LTL).
  • Capacity: A typical FTL trailer can carry 26 standard 48″ x 40″ pallets, with a weight capacity of up to 44,000 lbs.
  • Cost Structure: While usually more expensive than LTL due to paying for the whole truck, FTL is more cost-effective for large shipments.
  • Improved Visibility: FTL often provides better, real-time tracking of goods, assisting with supply chain management.
  • Use Cases: Used for high-risk, fragile, or time-sensitive goods, or when a shipment is large enough to fill a 48- or 53-foot trailer.

Intermodal

Key Aspects of Intermodal Trucking:

  • Drayage: The specialized trucking portion that transports containers between a port or rail yard and the final destination.
  • Efficiency: By utilizing containers, goods are not re-loaded during transit, reducing damage and increasing speed.
    Driver Benefits: Intermodal drivers often have more consistent schedules, fewer miles, and less manual labor compared to long-haul truckers.
  • Cost & Environment: It is often cheaper and more fuel-efficient than traditional over-the-road (OTR) trucking, particularly for long distances.
  • Common Uses: Long-Distance Shipping: Moving cargo from ships to inland cities, such as from California ports to Chicago.
  • International Trade: Facilitating seamless door-to-door transportation across borders.

 

Intermodal vs. Multimodal:

  • Intermodal: Uses multiple modes with separate contracts for each leg of the journey.
  • Multimodal: Uses multiple modes under a single contract with one carrier.
  • Intermodal trucking is considered a stable career path with high demand near major hubs like railyards and ports.
logo

Follow us

Facebook Instagram
© 2026 SEV7NTY TRUCKING LLC | Built for Growth