PTL vs FTL Shipping: Key Differences for Shippers To Consider

PTL and FTL are two methods of transporting freight that shippers often get confused. Each one offers unique advantages that can be useful in certain scenarios. That said, you might be unsure which service is right for your shipment. Let’s take a look at how PTL and FTL differ from one another. 

Key takeaways:

• Partial Truckload (PTL) shipments are mediums sized loads that share space inside a trailer with other loads.
• Full Truckload (FTL) shipments contain freight from one shipper and take up the entire space of a trailer. 
• Shipping costs for FTL can fluctuate between $1.50 and $3.50, while expenses for PTL can vary with every shipment. 
• PTL is similar to Less-than-truckload (LTL), which is used for smaller shipments but with a more complex process for calculating expenses.

We’re going to cover the finer details of these points to help you better understand how these services are used.  

What’s the Difference Between PTL and FTL?

The difference between PTL and FTL comes down to three basic factors:

• How much space your load takes up in a trailer
• Whether space is shared with other shippers
• The number of stops that occur

PTL shipments are smaller than FTL, but larger than LTL. Trailer space for is shared between two or more shippers. That said, PTL freight experiences fewer stops than LTL shipments because fewer people share trailer space.

FTL shipments are arranged so that only one shipper’s goods occupy the space of a trailer. Ideally, the shipment fills the entire trailer, but not always Once FTL cargo is loaded, it doesn’t stop until it reaches the final destination. 

Here’s some data we’ve provided that shows the average difference in size between PTL and FTL shipments.

Your shipping needs will vary based on your unique situation. We’ll discuss the best scenarios to use each service in the following sections. 

When To Use PTL

PTL is used less often than other methods of ground shipping. That said, there are a variety of situations where it can be helpful. 

• Medium Sized Shipments: PTL shipping can accommodate shipments that are too large for LTL and too small for FTL. 
• Safer Than LTL: While PTL shipments stop less frequently along a route, which reduces freight handling and risk of damage. 
• Flexibility Capacity: PTL services allow you to only book the space you require, without committing to FTL or LTL.
• Oddly Shaped Cargo: PTL shipping provides more solutions for oddly shaped palletized or non-palletized freight. 

Since PTL is less common, you may have a harder time finding a transportation provider. Here at USA Truckload, we offer a variety of solutions to help you overcome logistical challenges. 

When To Use FTL

FTL shipping is frequently used by shippers all across the country because of its many practical applications. 

• High Volume Shipments: FTL loads fill an entire trailer, which makes it the perfect option when you’re shipping large quantities of freight. 
• Time-Sensitive Deliveries: FTL shipments reach the final destination much faster because they don’t make any stops along a route. 
• Cheaper for Long Distances: Thanks to per-mile rates and direct transit from one point to the next, FTL is more cost-effective for long haul shipping. 
• Better Security: FTL shipments aren’t opened until they reach the final destination. This helps prevent freight theft.

One downside about FTL is that it’s not an adaptable method of moving freight. Therefore, you won’t be able to make changes to your load, such as adding or removing items, once it’s been shipped.

How Much Does Each Service Cost?

FTL shipping rates can cost anywhere between $1.50 and $3.50 per mile. Distance is the leading factor that determines the cost of FTL rates. However, there are other factors at play.

• Weight
• Urgency of shipment
• Additional services
• Handling requirements
• Demand and Seasonality
• Regional Area

FTL rates change week-by-week, and in some cases, day-by-day. Make sure to check current rates prior to booking a load. This will help you accurately estimate how much your shipping expenses will cost. 

Factors that influence PTL shipping costs include:

• Space utilization
• Weight and dimensions
• Packaging
• Special handling requirements

The amount of space your freight takes up inside a trailer and how much it weighs have a huge impact on your PTL costs. Heavier and larger shipments are more expensive, while smaller and lighter loads are cheaper. 

Packaging can impact space utilization within a trailer. If your freight is palletized, it will utilize space more efficiently and lead to a favorable rate. Bulkier loads, on the other hand, can drive up your costs.

Lastly, the handling requirements for your freight can impact PTL shipments as well. Freight that’s fragile or requires temperature treatment will be more expensive to ship with PTL compared to standard dry goods.  

What’s the Difference Between LTL and Partial Loads?

We’ve mentioned LTL shipping a few times, but what exactly is it? LTL, referring to less-than-truckload services, is used for shipments that are too small for FTL and PTL. It’s designed to combine multiple shipments, from different shippers, into one trailer. 

The pricing structure is very specific. LTL costs are determined by freight class and NFMC codes, which can be a complex way of calculating transportation expenses for new shippers.

While the trailer sharing structure is similar to PTL, the number of shippers per trailer is usually higher. This also means transit times will be longer because multiple stops have to be made for the loading and unloading of each shipment. As a result, cargo damage is more likely to occur. 

A PTL shipment does share trailer space, but with a limited number of other shippers. Depending on the carrier providing the services, pricing structures can also vary greatly. Some may still classify the goods as they would for LTL, while others focus on space and distance only. 

USA Truckload Shipping Offers A Variety of Transport Solutions

Whether you need to ship LTL or FTL (or something in between), USA Truckload Shipping has you covered. Our vast network of small carriers can move your freight with care and speed anywhere in the United States. 

Have a special request to make? With our premium carriers, we’re able to provide an assortment of transportation options.

• Truckload Shipping: We use state-of-the-art technology to secure premium truckload carriers at a competitive price. 
• Expedited Freight Services: Beat your deadlines with fast turnaround and our 99.5% on-time delivery rate. 
• Drayage: Our carriers can use chassis to move your container out of ports and to a nearby warehouse for unloading. 

If you’re ready to begin a long-term relationship with a reliable 3PL, then fill out your RFP today. For any inquiries about the services we offer, reach out to one of our team members at (866) 353-7178. You can also contact us through our site.