What is the difference between LTL, TL, and full load shipment?

Yes — the concept is analogous to sea freight LCL/FCL but for road transport:

LTL (Less than Truckload): Your freight shares a truck with other shippers. Priced by freight class (1–500 scale based on density, handling, stowability, liability) and distance. Typical shipments: 150–10,000 lbs.

TL / FTL (Truckload / Full Truckload): You book the entire truck exclusively. Priced per mile or per load, regardless of weight (up to truck limits). Typical threshold: 10,000+ lbs or when LTL cost exceeds TL cost.

Full Load: Often used interchangeably with FTL, or sometimes refers to a full container (FCL) in international shipping. Context matters.

Pricing differences:

• LTL: Based on weight, freight class, origin/destination zip codes, and accessorial services (liftgate, residential delivery)
• FTL: Negotiated per lane (origin city → destination city). Spot market rates fluctuate with truck availability. Contract rates more stable.

When to choose:

• LTL: < 10,000 lbs, don't need dedicated truck, time-flexible (2–5 day transit typical)
• FTL: > 10,000 lbs OR time-sensitive OR cargo too fragile/awkward to co-load

Use the <a href="https://calculatecbm.com/freight-class">freight class calculator</a> to determine the right NMFC class for your LTL shipment.