Glossary » Full Truck Load Definition

What is the Full Truck Load?

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The Full Truck Load, or FTL, refers to a shipment method that utilises the full capacity of a truck for one shipment. FTL lets the business sending large shipments fully load the truck to maximise transport efficiency, as goods can now be moved quickly and directly from origin to destination.
An FTL implies that the shipping company allocates one vehicle exclusively for one customer's shipment and, therefore, does not need to share space with any other customer. This reduces handling time and also cuts down the chances of delays.

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How Does Full Truck Load Work?

The principle behind Full Truck Load or FTL is simple: the volume of shipment justifies the usage of a full truck. The shipment force pays for the entire truck capacity, even if every inch in the truck is not utilised.

In FTL shipping, the logistics provider arranges transportation at the convenience of the shipper’s schedule. The truck travels directly to the destination from the shipping point without any stops along the way. This kind of streamlined, point-to-point service is ideal when covering long distances efficiently.

Why Choose Full Truck Load?

Choosing FTL offers several benefits. First, it’s ideal for businesses needing fast, efficient transport. It minimises the handling time because there are no additional stops or multiple loaders and unloaders.

Additionally, FTL reduces the risk of damage, as the goods are not transferred from truck to truck or mixed with any other shipment. It is highly suitable for precious or fragile items since the dedicated transport reduces the chances of theft and mishandling, thus offering an additional layer of security for sensitive cargo.

Understanding the Difference Between FTL and LTL Shipping

In FTL shipment, the truck is fully dedicated to a single customer’s goods, allowing them to occupy the entire capacity of the truck and enabling direct delivery with minimal stops. By contrast, Less Than Truckload (LTL) is when several customers share one truck, and thus, there are more stops since there is the collection and delivery of goods to different places. 

Therefore, a Full Truckload will be useful if the shipment is huge enough to occupy all the space available in a trailer, be it a dry van, flatbed, or refrigerated container. FTL shipping well suits industries such as manufacturing and retail, particularly during high demand, due to the shipment’s bulk products being transported rapidly to their final destination without damage.

When is Full Truck Load Most Useful?

FTL is particularly beneficial when the shipment is time-sensitive. If a business has a strict timeline, FTL ensures that goods reach their destination without delay.

Additionally, during holiday seasons or promotional events, FTL can handle large orders efficiently. It helps companies maintain supply chain consistency even during peak periods.

This service is also great for geographical locations with few shipment options, ensuring that deliveries are timely and reliable.

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