Volume LTL vs Traditional LTL: Key Differences Explained

In the world of freight shipping, LTL (Less Than Truckload) is a common solution for businesses that don’t need a full trailer. But not all LTL shipments are treated the same. When freight volume starts to push past a certain threshold, shippers may find themselves dealing with a different category altogether—Volume LTL.

Understanding the differences between traditional LTL and volume LTL is essential for shippers, brokers, and carriers alike. Knowing which option fits a particular shipment can help avoid overpaying, reduce delays, and streamline delivery.

What Is Traditional LTL?

Traditional LTL shipping is designed for smaller freight loads that typically occupy one to six pallets and weigh up to around 10,000 pounds. These shipments share space on a trailer with freight from other customers, and pricing is based on a mix of factors: weight, distance, freight class, and density.

The appeal of LTL lies in its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Rather than paying for an entire trailer, shippers pay only for the portion they use. However, because multiple shipments are consolidated onto a single truck, there are more touchpoints along the way—multiple transfers at terminals, sorting facilities, and increased handling.

That means traditional LTL often comes with longer transit times and a higher chance of damage, especially for fragile or irregular-sized freight.

What Is Volume LTL?

Volume LTL—sometimes called partial truckload—is meant for shipments that are too large for standard LTL, but not quite big enough to justify paying for a full truckload. While each carrier sets its own criteria, volume LTL typically applies when a shipment is:

  • Over 5,000 pounds

  • More than 6 pallets

  • Occupies over 12 linear feet of trailer space

Because of its size, volume LTL freight doesn’t go through the typical LTL network of terminals and transfers. It usually moves on a more direct route with fewer stops, often staying on the same truck from pickup to delivery.

This streamlined handling reduces the risk of damage and can result in faster delivery times—though the availability of volume LTL service depends on carrier capacity and lanes.

Pricing Structures and Rate Variability

One of the biggest differences between traditional and volume LTL lies in how pricing is determined. Traditional LTL uses tariff-based pricing, which incorporates freight class, weight, and zone-based mileage. Carriers use a set formula, and rates are relatively predictable if you know the class and destination.

Volume LTL, on the other hand, is often quoted on a case-by-case basis. It’s less about freight class and more about space—how much trailer real estate the shipment takes up and how it fits into the carrier’s network. This flexibility can be an advantage, but it also means rate fluctuations depending on lane demand, season, and carrier availability.

For shippers moving larger loads frequently, shopping around or negotiating with carriers directly becomes more important under volume LTL pricing.

Transit Time and Handling

With traditional LTL, freight is passed through multiple distribution points. It’s loaded and unloaded several times, which increases both transit time and the potential for damage. For standard palletized freight, this may not be an issue, but for time-sensitive or fragile goods, it can pose challenges.

Volume LTL shipments, by contrast, typically involve fewer touchpoints. They move more directly, often bypassing the hub-and-spoke system entirely. This can shorten transit times and improve reliability, especially on longer hauls.

However, volume LTL isn’t always faster—it depends on the carrier’s schedule and availability. Since these shipments don’t move as frequently as regular LTL runs, there may be more lead time involved in securing a truck.

When to Choose One Over the Other

The decision between traditional and volume LTL usually comes down to size, urgency, and cost. For small to medium-sized loads, traditional LTL remains the most economical and accessible option. It works best for routine freight that isn’t highly sensitive to handling or deadlines.

Volume LTL is better suited for larger, heavier shipments that need more space or gentler handling. It offers an in-between solution that can be more cost-effective than full truckload while providing some of the same benefits in speed and reduced risk.

Understanding your freight’s size, shape, and delivery requirements will help you make the right call—and possibly save money and avoid logistical headaches along the way.