When it comes to shipping goods over the road, one of the most common and efficient methods is Full Truckload (FTL) freight. FTL is exactly what it sounds like: a single shipment that occupies the entire space or weight capacity of a truck. But even if you don’t fill the trailer, FTL may still be the best option depending on your needs.
Let’s take a closer look at why you might choose FTL freight, what’s involved in the process, the security measures, and how to decide whether it’s the right fit for your shipment.
Why Pay for FTL?
Paying for an entire truck might seem excessive at first glance, especially if your freight doesn’t physically fill the trailer. However, there are several reasons why FTL is worth the investment:
- Speed: FTL shipments typically go directly from origin to destination without intermediate stops. This results in faster transit times.
- Security: Since the cargo isn’t handled or transferred en route, there’s a significantly lower risk of damage, theft, or loss.
- Control: You or your customer can schedule pickup and delivery appointments with more precision, reducing warehouse wait times and optimizing operations.
- Footage & Weight: If your freight takes up enough space or weight capacity, FTL is the service you need.
Security: The Role of Seals
To maintain cargo integrity, FTL shipments often use tamper-evident seals placed on the trailer doors after loading. These include:
- Plastic Seals: Used for lower-risk freight, mainly to show that the load hasn’t been opened.
- Metal Bolt Seals: Common for higher-value or regulated goods; they are stronger and require bolt cutters to remove.
- Cable Seals: A versatile option offering both strength and flexibility.
Seals deter unauthorized access and provide a clear indication if tampering has occurred. Many companies require seal numbers to be recorded at pickup and verified at delivery.
When You May Not Need FTL
FTL isn’t always the right solution. You might consider Less-than-Truckload (LTL) or Partial Truckload if:
- Your shipment is small (generally under 10 pallets or less than 15,000 pounds).
- Cost is the primary concern and transit time is flexible.
- You don’t require strict delivery appointments.
- Your product isn’t time-sensitive or fragile.
Titan is all about getting you the best value for your shipment, and we don’t want to nickel and dime you for something you might not need. That’s why our staff will work with you one on one for the duration of your shipment. If FTL is what you need, no problem! We are happy to assist and get your shipment done just how you want.
FTL freight is a powerful logistics tool that offers speed, security, and control for shippers with larger or more sensitive loads. While it may come with a higher upfront cost than LTL, the benefits, especially for time-critical or high-value shipments, often justify the investment.
