One of the most common questions we get from shippers: should I ship FTL or LTL? The answer affects your cost, transit time, and how much your freight gets handled. Here's how to decide.
FTL means your freight fills — or effectively reserves — an entire trailer. The truck goes from your pickup location directly to the delivery location without stopping. No other shippers' freight shares the trailer.
Typical FTL shipment: 20,000+ lbs, or freight that takes up 12+ linear feet of trailer space, or any shipment where you need dedicated space regardless of weight.
LTL means your freight shares a trailer with other shippers' cargo. You only pay for the space you use. The carrier consolidates multiple smaller shipments going in the same direction.
Typical LTL shipment: 1–6 pallets, under 15,000 lbs, and transit time is less critical than cost.
| Factor | FTL | LTL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher upfront, cheaper per lb | Lower upfront, higher per lb |
| Transit Time | Faster — direct route | Slower — multiple stops |
| Handling | Minimal — loaded once | Multiple transfers at terminals |
| Damage Risk | Lower | Higher (more handling) |
| Flexibility | Pick any carrier | Limited to LTL carriers |
| Best For | Large, time-sensitive, fragile | Small, cost-sensitive, flexible |
If your shipment crosses 10–12 pallets or 15,000 lbs, run the math on both options. At that volume, FTL often costs less per pound and gets there faster. Many shippers are surprised to find that FTL beats LTL pricing at scale.
Not sure which applies to your freight? Use our instant quote tool — input your shipment details and we'll recommend the best option with a real price.
IZY Logistics is a licensed freight broker (MC #1615290) serving shippers across the United States. Get a competitive quote in under 30 seconds.
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