fulltruckload

Full truckload, often abbreviated FTL, is a transportation method in which a single shipper occupies most or all of a truck’s capacity with their goods, and the trailer is dedicated to that shipment. This contrasts with less-than-truckload (LTL), where multiple shippers share the same trailer.

FTL uses various trailer types, including dry vans for non-perishable cargo, refrigerated trailers for temperature-controlled goods, and flatbeds for oversize loads. Loads are typically large enough to fill most of the trailer, and shipments may be palletized or non-palletized. With a dedicated trailer, cargo is generally loaded at the shipper’s site and unloaded at the consignee without interchanges with other shipments.

Advantages of FTL include faster transit times, reduced handling and risk of damage from transfers, more predictable delivery windows, and direct control over routing and scheduling. Common use cases include manufacturing supply runs, wholesale and retail replenishment, and high-value or time-sensitive cargo where minimizing touchpoints is beneficial.

Costs and planning considerations center on distance, lane demand, and vehicle availability. FTL is often more economical for larger shipments that fill a significant portion of a trailer, but it can be less cost-efficient for small shipments. Equipment type matters—dry vans, reefers, and flatbeds each suit different cargo and may require specialized permits or temperature control. Liability is governed by the bill of lading and carrier insurance; cargo coverage should be reviewed according to shipment risk.

Operationally, FTL typically involves pickup, loading, sealing, direct transit, delivery, and proof of delivery, with transit times varying by distance and route. It is regulated by national and regional rules regarding safety and hours of service.