What is a full truckload (FTL)?
The vehicle is yours alone: the goods are loaded at one address and go straight to delivery without transhipment. A standard curtainsider trailer is 13.6 metres long.
- Usually faster: no transhipment, no waiting at other addresses.
- Less handling: the goods change hands less, so there is less risk of damage.
- More predictable: the delivery date is firmer.
A full truckload makes sense when your goods fill most of a trailer, are close to the weight limit, go to one consignee, or are sensitive or valuable.
What is a part load (LTL)?
Your goods share the vehicle with other shippers’ goods: the carrier consolidates several loads in one truck, and you pay for the space and weight yours take. It is usually more economical for a few pallets or packages and suits businesses with regular but small shipments.
What to watch:
- Transit can take longer, as the vehicle calls at several addresses.
- Goods may be handled at cross-docks, so packaging must stand up to it.
- Stackability affects the price: pallets nothing can go on top of count as taking more space.
Four questions to decide
- How much space? The price usually follows the length of trailer your goods occupy: the loading metre (LDM). Our loading metre calculator and pallets per truck calculator show it in minutes.
- How heavy? Small but heavy loads can reach the weight limit; our CBM and volumetric weight calculator helps.
- How urgent? For a firm delivery date a full truckload is more reliable; for urgent jobs, an express van.
- How many addresses? Add extra pickup or delivery points to the load as stops, so carriers price the full picture.
There is no fixed threshold: compare both quotes
The right point to switch from part load to full truckload depends on the lane, the season and how much freight is moving that week. If your goods take up close to half a trailer, ask for both and compare; sometimes a few more pallets make the full truck the better deal.
Allowing consolidation
Letting your part load travel with others makes it easier for the carrier to fill the truck and often lowers the price. If your goods cannot share a vehicle (for smell, hygiene or security reasons), say so in the load.
Choosing on Tır Lazım
When you post a load on Tır Lazım you choose full (FTL), part (LTL), container, express van or heavy haulage. In a part load you describe each pallet and package; consolidation is allowed by default and you can switch it off. Verified carriers see your load and send firm prices. Compare the options on our transport types page or browse open loads.
This article is general information, not legal or customs advice. For your own goods, ask your customs broker or a lawyer.
