FTL Shipping & Logistics

What is FTL Shipping?


Full truckload shipping is when an entire truck is allocated to a single consignment.

FTL shipping is usually used when the shipment’s volume or weight is large enough to occupy the vehicle’s full capacity (or when a business chooses to use the full truck to speed up delivery).

FTL transportation can be the most suitable choice for specific scenarios, including:

  • Transporting large quantities of goods

  • Transporting high-value shipments

  • Transporting goods that require special handling conditions


Many businesses in the UK (and around the world) use full truckload shipping, with some industries (e.g., manufacturing, retail, agriculture) using it more for its ability to move large volumes of goods quickly.

Advantages of FTL Shipping

Managing FTL logistics can be easy, particularly because of its faster ETAS and security. Plus, business owners may be afforded more flexibility with FTL shipping, as there is more control over routing.
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Speed


In most cases, FTL transportation is a quicker mode of transport than LTL shipping (less-than-truckload). FTL shipping transports goods directly from origin to destination and does not make drop-offs along the way.

Security


The minimal touchpoints of FTL shipping can have other advantages. Less handling means fewer opportunities for damages, theft or loss.

Customisation


FTL logistics are easier to personalise than LTL shipping. Custom solutions, like optimal planning routes and meeting specific delivery times, may be necessary for items with specific handling requirements.

Disadvantages of FTL shipping

FTL transportation can be the more expensive option, especially for smaller shipments that don't use the truck's full capacity. In these cases, businesses end up paying for unused space (a less economical choice for companies with smaller shipments).

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How to use FTL shipping

Making the most of this FTL means weighing up your consignment’s requirements and forming a partnership with a suitable freight forwarder.

1. Is this the appropriate scenario for FTL shipping?


FTL is most advantageous when transporting large volumes of goods that can occupy an entire truck, typically exceeding 4,500kg (10,000 pounds) or consisting of more than 10–12 pallets.
If you know your consignment isn’t large enough to fill an entire container (and you don’t have the budget to pay for the entire truck), consider LTL. There is also the time factor.
FTL freight quotes may be slightly higher due to the direct routes taken by vehicles. If your shipment doesn’t need to be delivered by a specific, unchangeable date, you may want to consider the lower costs of LTL.

2. Are you working with a reliable freight forwarder?


A partnership with an experienced freight forwarder is central to the success of your shipments. You should choose a company or individual with a proven track record in handling FTL shipments, particularly within your industry.

How many pallets fit in a full truckload?

Standard UK pallets measure 100 cm x 120 cm. A standard truck can typically hold between 26 of these pallets. Euro pallets are slightly smaller (80 cm x 120 cm). Due to their reduced width, a standard truck can accommodate up to 33 Euro pallets.

How much does it cost to ship a full truckload?

The cost of a full truckload consignment can vary based on fuel prices, demand, and your chosen courier. For importers, this can be a costly process.
That’s why we’re offering you FTL freight quotes. Using our quick cost-comparison service, you can compare shipping quotes from over 20 international shipping services, like DPD, DHL and Parcelforce.
 

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