LTL vs. Volume LTL vs. FTL Shipping: Key Differences, Pros, Cons, and Cost Considerations

For businesses that rely on transporting goods, choosing between LTL (Less Than Truckload), Volume LTL (also known as Partial Truckload), and FTL (Full Truckload) shipping can significantly affect logistics costs, delivery times, and overall efficiency. Understanding the key differences between these shipping methods is essential when optimizing your supply chain strategy.

While all three options serve the purpose of moving freight, they’re designed for different shipping needs. Knowing which one to use—and when—can make a noticeable impact on your bottom line.

What Is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is designed for freight that doesn’t require the entire space of a truck. Instead of one shipment occupying the whole trailer, several shippers share the same space, each paying for only the portion of the truck their freight occupies.

This method works well for shipments that are too large for parcel carriers but not big enough to warrant a full truckload. Typical LTL freight weighs between 150 and 15,000 pounds and is often palletized to maximize space efficiency and minimize handling damage.

Because LTL shipments make multiple stops for pickups and deliveries, transit times tend to be longer than FTL. However, for small to medium-sized shipments, the cost savings can outweigh the delay—especially if delivery speed isn’t a critical factor.

What Is Volume LTL (Partial Truckload)?

Volume LTL, also known as Partial Truckload, bridges the gap between LTL and FTL. It’s best suited for shipments that are larger than standard LTL but don’t require the exclusive use of a truck.

Volume LTL typically involves freight that’s too big or heavy for traditional LTL pricing models—often in the range of 6 to 18 pallets or 5,000 to 25,000 pounds. While still sharing space, these shipments are handled more like FTL loads: fewer touchpoints, fewer transfers, and typically only one or two stops.

This reduces the risk of damage and offers faster, more predictable transit times than standard LTL—often approaching FTL speeds, but without the full cost. It’s ideal for shippers who want cost savings without sacrificing reliability.

Unlike traditional LTL, Volume LTL rates are generally spot-quoted based on space and weight rather than freight class, eliminating some of the complexity and variability of standard LTL pricing.

What Is FTL Shipping?

FTL shipping means that a single shipment fills the entire truck, or at least takes up most of the space. Even if the truck isn’t packed to capacity, the shipper pays for exclusive use of the vehicle.

This approach is ideal for companies moving large quantities of goods or sensitive items that require minimal handling and faster transit. Since the truck moves directly from point A to point B without stopping for other freight, delivery is often quicker and more secure.

FTL is frequently used for shipments over 15,000 pounds or when the freight is high-value, fragile, or time-sensitive.

Comparing Costs: LTL vs. Volume LTL vs. FTL

Cost is often the deciding factor between LTL, Volume LTL, and FTL shipping:

LTL: Economical for smaller shipments. Rates are influenced by freight class, weight, dimensions, and distance.
Volume LTL: Offers a middle ground. You get better rates than FTL for larger loads without the multi-stop, high-handling nature of traditional LTL. Pricing is typically based on the space taken and weight—not freight class.
FTL: Higher up-front cost, but can be cheaper per unit for large shipments. Fewer risks of damage and delays can also mean lower long-term costs.

When to Choose LTL Shipping

LTL is a smart choice when:

Your shipment doesn’t fill an entire truck.
You’re flexible with delivery times.
You need access to special services like liftgates, inside delivery, or delivery appointments.

When to Choose Volume LTL (Partial Truckload)

Volume LTL is a great option when:

Your shipment is too large for LTL but doesn’t need a full truck.
You want faster transit than standard LTL without the full FTL price.
Reducing the risk of damage is a priority, but cost is still a concern.
You want to avoid complex freight classification and pricing.

When to Choose FTL Shipping

FTL is the go-to solution when:

You have a large or heavy shipment.
Delivery time is essential.
Your goods require special care and minimal handling.
You need full control over scheduling and routing.

Pros and Cons of Each Method

LTL Pros:

Lower cost for small shipments
No need to pay for unused trailer space
Flexible scheduling and extra services available

LTL Cons:

Longer transit times
Higher risk of damage from frequent handling
Rate variability depending on classification

Volume LTL Pros:

Cost-effective for mid-sized shipments
Less handling = lower damage risk
Faster transit times than standard LTL
No freight class complications

Volume LTL Cons:

Not as widely understood in the market
May require spot quoting and planning ahead
Limited availability compared to LTL or FTL

FTL Pros:

Faster, more direct shipping
Reduced handling lowers the risk of damage
Better for fragile, high-value, or time-sensitive cargo

FTL Cons:

Higher total cost for smaller loads
Less flexible for minor shipments
Fewer service add-ons compared to LTL

Final Thoughts

Whether LTL, Volume LTL, or FTL shipping is the better option depends largely on the size, urgency, and nature of your freight.

LTL is a budget-conscious solution for smaller shipments. Volume LTL offers a smart, efficient middle ground with faster service and fewer touchpoints. FTL provides speed and security for larger loads.

The key is evaluating your business’s unique needs, considering both short-term costs and long-term logistics goals. For many companies, a mix of all three—used strategically—delivers the best results. Understanding the trade-offs is the first step toward a smarter, more efficient supply chain.