There are several types of Full Truckload (FTL) shipping, some of these include:
- Dry van: This is the most common type of FTL shipping and involves the use of an enclosed trailer to transport non-perishable goods.
- Refrigerated trailer: This type of trailer is equipped with a refrigeration unit and is used to transport perishable goods that need to be kept at a specific temperature.
- Flatbed: A flatbed trailer is an open trailer with a flat, unobstructed surface that is used to transport large, heavy, or oddly shaped items that cannot be shipped in an enclosed trailer.
- Tanker: A tanker trailer is used to transport liquids, gases, or dry bulk materials.
- Step deck: A step deck trailer has a lower deck and a upper deck, with a “step” in between, which allows it to transport tall or oversize loads.
- Double drop: A double drop trailer has a well in the center of the trailer that can be lowered to the ground, allowing it to transport very tall or oversize loads.
- Conestoga: A Conestoga trailer is a type of flatbed trailer with a flexible tarp that can be raised and lowered to enclose the load and protect it from the elements.
What is the difference between FTL and LTL?
FTL stands for “Full Truckload,” and it refers to a type of shipping in which a single customer’s shipment occupies the entire truck and is transported to a single destination. FTL shipping is typically used for larger shipments that require the capacity of an entire truck.
LTL stands for “Less than Truckload,” and it refers to a type of shipping in which multiple shipments are consolidated onto one truck to be transported to various destinations. LTL shipping is a cost-effective alternative to FTL shipping for smaller shipments that do not require the capacity of a full truck.
One main difference between FTL and LTL is the size of the shipment. FTL is typically used for larger shipments that occupy an entire truck, while LTL is used for smaller shipments that only occupy part of a truck. Another difference is the cost: FTL shipping is generally more expensive than LTL shipping because the customer is paying for the use of an entire truck, whereas with LTL, the customer only pays for the space their shipment occupies on the truck. Additionally, FTL shipments may have shorter transit times because they are not consolidated with other shipments and do not make multiple stops along the way.
What is Partial Freight shipping?
Partial freight shipping, also known as “partial truckload” or “PTL,” is a type of shipping in which a customer’s shipment occupies part of a truck, but not the entire truck. It is similar to less than truckload (LTL) shipping, in that multiple shipments are consolidated onto one truck, but it is typically used for larger shipments that do not require the capacity of a full truck. Partial freight shipping can be a cost-effective option for customers who have a larger shipment than can be shipped via LTL, but do not need the capacity of a full truck.
Like LTL shipping, partial freight shipping involves the consolidation of multiple shipments onto one truck, which can result in longer transit times and the handling of shipments by multiple parties during the shipping process. Often though, your freight does not leave the original truck it was loaded on to. However, partial freight carriers may offer more tracking and liability options than LTL carriers, and may be able to provide more precise delivery times.
If you’re not sure what type of shipping or equipment your freight needs a knowledgeable Freight Broker can guide you in the direction that can cost effectively meet your needs. This is where Moonlight Custom Logistics can be of service. We strive to not only move your freight, but to be a logistics partner that can educate and provide solutions.