LTL vs. PTL Shipping: How They Differ & When To Use Each

by Jordan Larsen

LTL and PTL haulers combine multiple customers’ loads onto the same truck. Let’s dive into how they compare and when to use each service.

What Is LTL Shipping?

In less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, an owner-operator or logistics company hauls multiple small freight loads on the same trip. Typically, these loads weigh between 150 and 20,0000 pounds (68 and 9,000 kilograms) and are less than 12 feet (3.6 meters) in length. The truck makes multiple stops on its shipping journey, dropping off each load at its respective destination.

With LTL trucking, you only pay for the space you take up instead of paying for the entire trailer, allowing you to save big on shipping costs. Usually, this service also requires you to secure your load on pallets prior to shipment to help minimize cargo damage. Once your equipment is secured, a bill of lading (BOL) is required to specify your contact information, equipment descriptions, pickup and drop-off locations, packaging details, freight dimensions, and shipping instructions for the carrier.

What Is Partial Truckload Shipping?

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping also combines multiple pieces of equipment in the same trailer load, but PTL freight typically weighs between 5,000 and 28,000 lbs (2,268 and 12,700 kg). Partial loads are less than 12 ft in length and rest on at least six pallets. As with LTL shipping, you only pay for the space your load takes up, which helps you save up to 50% over traditional shipping rates. Cost factors for PTL options include trailer space used, mileage, and weight.

Typically, PTL shipments ship straight to your desired destination without any stops, making them ideal for time-sensitive projects. Direct-to-destination shipping helps lower the risk of equipment damage, making PTL trucking a safer transit option. A partial truckload shipment should be measured and wrapped before being loaded, and a BOL should be created for the carrier, as well.

When To Use LTL Shipping

If you are looking to ship a relatively small load, LTL shipping is a more cost-effective option for durable cargo. Unlike PTL trucking, rates are based on a classification code and aren’t limited to the market price, giving you greater cost flexibility. Typically, transport costs are split between all the customers with freight in the same shipment, making it a more affordable service.

Less-than-truckload shipping is also the preferred method for shorter travel distances, particularly in the same geographic area, while partial truckload shipping is considerably better for long-distance hauling. In addition, LTL haulers are more readily available than PTL haulers, thereby giving shippers more options.

When To Use PTL Shipping

PTL shipping is the better option for heavier equipment, thanks to load limits that are 8,000 lbs greater than in LTL shipping. In addition, if you have a time-sensitive load, partial truckload transport is the more effective method, as your shipment will travel to its destination with fewer or no stops at terminals, warehouses, and other locations, while LTL trucking makes multiple stops on the shipping journey.

PTL transit is widely considered to be the safer option since it requires less handling, minimizing the likelihood of equipment damage during the journey. PTL shipments can be tracked the same way as full-truckload (FTL) shipments, allowing customers to track their equipment at any time, while less-than-truckload options send “key indicator” updates instead.

Book Your Shipping Solution With FR8Star

Looking to book your shipment today? Utilize FR8Star’s load board to get connected with insured carriers ready to haul your equipment. Start by entering your load information on FR8Star.com to receive free estimates, usually within just minutes of submission. Then, compare the bids from transport companies and pick the one that best fits your needs.

Check out our freight shipping page to learn key freight cost-saving tips and book your shipping solution today!