Full Truckload
Full Truckload
Businesses today need shipping solutions that offer efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. For companies handling large shipments, Full Truckload (FTL) services provide unparalleled advantages.
As a trusted third-party logistics provider offering Cleveland full truckload services, we aim to help clients and prospective clients better understand our FTL services, including their applications, benefits, and how they stack up compared to other shipping methods.
Whether you're in manufacturing, retail, or some other industry, FTL could be just the logistics solution to streamline your operations and get your goods where they need to go – intact, on time, every time.
What Are Full Truckload (FTL) Services?
Full Truckload (FTL or truckload) is a freight solution where an entire truck is dedicated to transporting a single shipment. Unlike Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping, where multiple shippers share space on a truck, FTL is ideal for shipments large enough to fill a trailer or when exclusivity is required for reasons such as expedited delivery or the nature of the cargo.
FTL services typically involve:
- Dedicated Equipment. A single truck and driver are assigned to your shipment.
- Direct Routes. Goods are transported directly from the origin to the destination without additional stops or handling.
- Volume Optimization. The truck is fully utilized, maximizing efficiency for larger shipments.
What Types of Shipments Are Ideal for FTL?
FTL shipping is best suited for:
- High-Volume Cargo. When the shipment size is large enough to occupy most or all of a truck’s capacity (typically more than 10,000 pounds or 10+ pallets).
- Time-Sensitive Deliveries. For goods that need to reach their destination quickly, full truck load provides direct transport routes to ensure faster transit times.
- Fragile or Specialized Cargo. Items that require minimal handling or special conditions, such as temperature-controlled goods, hazardous materials, or oversized freight.
- Cost-Efficient Bulk Shipping. For businesses with consistent high-volume freight needs, FTL shipping provides economies of scale.
Industries That Rely on FTL Services
Numerous industries benefit from the unique advantages of FTL shipping. Among these:
- Retail. Large-scale retailers often use FTL for transporting bulk inventory to distribution centers or stores, especially during peak seasons.
- Manufacturing. Factories rely on FTL to transport raw materials or finished products efficiently.
- Agriculture. Perishable goods, such as fresh produce or dairy, are transported via FTL to maintain freshness and meet delivery deadlines.
- Pharmaceuticals. Companies shipping medications or medical devices depend on FTL for secure, temperature-controlled transport.
- Automotive. Car manufacturers and parts suppliers frequently use FTL for heavy or oversized components.
Benefits of Full Truckload Services
1. Faster Transit Times
Full truckload shipments follow a direct route, eliminating the delays associated with LTL’s multiple stops and transfers. This makes FTL ideal for time-sensitive deliveries.
2. Enhanced Cargo Security
With a dedicated truck, there is minimal handling of goods during transit. With LTL, cargo has to stop at multiple shipping hubs with a lot of activity in and out of the truck before it reaches its final container. As such, FTL shipments tend to be at reduced risk of damage or loss.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, full truckload shipments tend to experience 20% fewer damage claims compared to LTL shipments.
- Cost-Effectiveness for Large Shipments
While FTL may seem more expensive upfront, it becomes cost-efficient for businesses with high-volume shipments by optimizing truck space and reducing per-unit transport costs.
4. Scalability and Customization
FTL allows businesses to scale their shipping operations. From temperature-controlled trailers to specialized equipment for oversized loads, FTL offers a range of customizable options.
5. Reduced Environmental Impact
By maximizing trailer capacity and reducing the need for multiple LTL shipments, FTL can lower the carbon footprint of large-scale logistics.
FTL vs. Other Shipping Methods
FTL vs. LTL
- Shipment Size. FTL is ideal for larger loads, while LTL is suited for smaller shipments that don’t require a full truck.
- Transit Time. FTL offers faster delivery due to direct routes, whereas LTL shipments may take longer due to consolidation and multiple stops.
- Handling. FTL minimizes handling, reducing the risk of damage compared to LTL, where goods are frequently loaded and unloaded.
FTL vs. Intermodal Shipping
- Cost. Intermodal transport—combining truck, rail, and/or sea—can be cheaper for long-distance freight but is slower than FTL.
- Speed. FTL is better for time-sensitive deliveries.
- Flexibility. FTL provides door-to-door service, whereas intermodal shipping often involves more complex logistics.
FTL vs. Parcel Shipping
- Volume. Parcel shipping is ideal for small, lightweight packages, while FTL is designed for bulk cargo.
- Cost. FTL becomes more cost-effective as shipment size increases.
- Service. FTL offers specialized services for oversized or sensitive freight.
FTL in Intermodal Transport Solutions
FTL services often play a critical role in intermodal transport solutions that incorporate numerous methods of transport.
For example, FTL is frequently used in first-mile and last-mile delivery. At One Time Delivery, our Cleveland FTL drivers regularly transport goods from manufacturing facilities to rail terminals (first mile) and from rail terminals to final destinations (last mile).
In intermodal arrangements, full truckload can help bridge the gaps where rail or sea transport cannot directly reach – ensuring a more seamless supply chain.
One of the major upsides of FTL as one leg of a long-distance intermodal route is that businesses can optimize costs without compromising on delivery times.
Practical Considerations for Using FTL Services
When deciding whether to use FTL, it’s a good idea to consider the following:
- Shipment volume. Make sure the size of your shipment justifies the cost of an entire truck.
- Delivery time constraints. FTL is probably the best choice if you have urgent or extremely time-sensitive deliveries – even if you can’t fill up the entire truck.
- Type of cargo. Do your goods require specialized handling or highly specific transport conditions? Full truckload may be the way to go. For example, a fresh produce supplier may rely on FTL for a temperature-controlled trailer that can deliver its fruits and vegetables from farms to urban markets with minimal handling to ensure freshness and reduce the odds of spoilage.
- Trade lanes. For those with the option of a direct route from origin to destination, full truckload can be a smart transport solution.
For some customers, full truckload makes sense only at certain times or for particular shipments. For example, a retailer may use FTL services during the holiday season to transport high-demand inventory from distribution centers to regional stores. By utilizing direct routes, the company can potentially reduce lead times by as much as 30% – meeting customer demands efficiently during peak season.
Bottom Line: FTL is a Top Ohio Transportation Solution
Full Truckload (FTL) services are an essential component of modern logistics, offering speed, security, and scalability for large-volume shipments. Whether you’re in retail, manufacturing, or any other industry with significant shipping needs, FTL provides a reliable and efficient solution. When paired with intermodal transport, FTL can further enhance supply chain efficiency, providing businesses with a competitive edge.
As your trusted logistics partner, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of freight shipping. Contact us today to learn how FTL services can streamline your operations and drive growth for your business.
Need more information about our Cleveland Truckload services? Contact us today!