All You Need to Know About Full Truckload Load (FTL)

FTL (Full Truck Load) shipping means that the entire truck is dedicated to your shipment and is not shared with other companies' cargo. The truck picks up your freight at one location and delivers it directly to the destination, making the process faster, safer, and more reliable. This shipping method is particularly suitable for huge shipments, fragile goods, or products that need to reach their destination within a tight timeframe.

One of the key advantages of full truckload (FTL) transport is that once your freight is loaded, it remains untouched until delivery. This reduces the risk of damage and delays since there are no intermediate stops for loading other shipments. Industries requiring secure and fast transportation, such as retail, manufacturing, or high-value goods trading, often choose FTL logistics due to its reliability and speed.

Knowing when to choose full truckload (FTL) transport can make your logistics more efficient. It is the best option when you need control over the schedule, security, and transport conditions, or when the shipment size justifies using an entire truck. With proper planning, full truckload shipping can save both time and money. Additionally, with modern digital tools, FTL logistics has become a highly effective solution for many businesses.

What is a full truckload?

Full Truck Load shipment is typically when an entire truck is used by a single customer for transporting goods, meaning that the full truck capacity is utilized without the need to share space with other shipments. The average weight that a truck can carry in FTL transport in most European countries is 40 tons, including the total vehicle weight. Therefore, FTL is mainly used for large quantities of heavy goods.

FTL transport means that there is a direct route from the pickup point to the delivery point without stops or transshipments along the way. This minimizes delays and reduces the risk of damage or loss since the cargo is handled only once. For certain types of goods, specialized vehicles can be used for FTL transport, such as refrigerated trucks for perishable items or flatbed trucks for oversized cargo. FTL is considered the best option for peak times like Black Friday or Christmas, as large shipments can arrive on time. Moreover, optimized routes and modern trucks are used to reduce the environmental impact of special transport.

Key Features That Make Full Truck Load (FTL) Reliable:

• Exclusive Use of the Truck. The entire truck is dedicated to a single shipment, meaning the cargo space is not shared with other goods.
• Direct Delivery. Goods are transported directly from pickup to the destination without intermediate stops.
• High Load Capacity. Ideal for large shipments or bulky and heavy goods that require significant space in the truck.
• Customizable Transport Conditions. Options such as temperature control, enhanced security, or special handling requirements can be accommodated.
• Reduced Handling. The risk of damage or loss is minimized due to the elimination of multiple loading and unloading processes.
• Time Efficiency. Direct routes and targeted deliveries lead to shorter transit times.
• Cost Efficiency for Large Volumes. Maximizing truck utilization makes FTL transport economically viable for high-volume shipments.
• Enhanced Security. The shipment remains sealed and secured throughout the entire journey, reducing the risk of theft or tampering.

Full truckload transport (FTL) provides a reliable and efficient solution for businesses that require maximum control, security, and speed when shipping their goods.

Advantages of the full truckload

Full truckload (FTL) transport is a highly effective solution for businesses that handle large shipments or require strict control over logistics. When a company can use an entire truck for a single shipment, several advantages arise in terms of speed, security, and operational flexibility.

• Precise Delivery Planning. Since there are no intermediate stops and no shared loads, goods can be transported with FTL in a controlled manner within a predictable timeframe. For time-sensitive supply chains, such as retail or manufacturing, this can be critical.
• Industry-Specific Options. These are customized transport solutions that may require special cooling systems to preserve temperature-sensitive shipments or an accompanying person for the delivery of particularly high-value cargo.
• Seamless Cross-Border Transport. Shipping a full truckload (FTL) is well-suited for international logistics, as customs clearance and documentation are properly managed, reducing the risk of delays at border crossings.
• Suitable for Reverse Logistics. FTL transport is ideal for returning reusable packaging, equipment, or even waste, making it the most cost-effective solution for circular supply chains.
• Reduced Uncertainty in the Supply Chain. Shipping a full truckload eliminates the risks of shipment delays caused by other cargo during the loading and/or unloading process, ensuring smooth continuity and an uninterrupted flow of goods along the value chain.

FTL shipping is an essential tool for businesses seeking efficiency, control, and customized transport solutions tailored to specific operational needs.

Disadvantages of the FTL

FTL shipping comes with a set of challenges, often arising from the nature of full truckload logistics. If not managed properly, these challenges can lead to reduced cost efficiency and limited operational flexibility.

• High Costs for Partially Loaded Trucks. FTL transport becomes inefficient when the shipment volume does not justify using an entire truck, leading to underutilized truck capacity.  
  Solution: Consolidate shipments to maximize truck space or consider alternative transport options such as Less-than-Truckload (LTL) for smaller loads.
• Need for Long-Term Planning. Shipping a full truck load often requires advance booking and planning, making it less adaptable to last-minute changes or sudden demand spikes.  
  Solution: Work with logistics providers that offer flexible planning and maintain buffer capacity to accommodate unexpected demand.
• Availability of Specialized Vehicles. For goods that require special conditions, refrigerated trucks or even low-loaders may be necessary; in such cases, availability during peak periods can be a problem.  
  Solution: Always work with specialized transport companies and book well in advance.
• Challenges in Tracking and Monitoring. In less digitized areas or on less frequently traveled routes, real-time tracking and transparency may be insufficient, making logistics management more difficult.  
  Solution: Use the services of logistics providers that offer advanced GPS tracking and regular updates to ensure transparency throughout the entire transportation phase.

Despite these challenges, full truckload (FTL) transport remains one of the most effective and reliable shipping methods when companies need direct, secure, and timely delivery of goods. These obstacles can be overcome through proactive planning and collaboration with experienced freight forwarders to maximize the benefits of FTL logistics.

When should you use full truckloads?

This means that the decision to use full truckload (FTL) transport primarily depends on the transportation strategy, i.e., adjusting the shipment size to the company's objectives. FTL is designed for situations where efficiency, security, and control are of utmost importance. It provides a specialized solution for companies handling critical deliveries, ensuring that goods are transported directly without delays or intermediate stops.

FTL becomes necessary when the freight volume justifies using an entire truck when time-sensitive deliveries require direct routes, or when the nature of the goods—fragile, high-value, or requiring special conditions—demands exclusive transport. Additionally, companies operating in industries with complex supply chains or unpredictable demand rely on FTL to ensure process stability and reduce risks.

The decision to use FTL requires careful consideration of shipment characteristics, delivery priorities, and overall logistics goals.

Large delivery quantities

FTL shipping is the most efficient option for high-volume shipments that can fill an entire truck. It offers cost efficiency, easy handling and reduces the complexity associated with managing multiple smaller shipments.

• Maximizes truck capacity and significantly lowers transportation costs per unit.
• Streamlines logistics by consolidating large volumes into a single shipment.
• Minimizes the risk of damage by limiting cargo handling.
• Avoids delays caused by shared or partial loads.
• Ensures consistent supply chain processes when large inventories are required.
• Ideal for industries that regularly transport heavy or oversized goods.

FTL is the best solution for companies that prioritize efficiency in large-volume logistics.

Urgent deliveries

FTL shipping is essential for time-sensitive shipments where speed and reliability are crucial. It eliminates delays caused by stopovers, ensuring direct and fast delivery.

• Provides the fastest transit times with direct, uninterrupted routes.
• Avoids delays in loading and unloading consolidated shipments en route.
• Supports industries with tight delivery schedules, such as manufacturing and retail.
• Reduces supply chain disruptions caused by unexpected demand surges.
• Ensures the delivery of critical goods in emergencies or urgent reorders.
• Maintains product quality for perishable or time-sensitive goods.

For businesses with strict delivery deadlines, FTL guarantees fast and reliable transportation.

Shipment of fragile or expensive goods

FTL shipping ensures maximum security and care for sensitive or high-value goods. Since the truck is used exclusively for a single shipment, handling is minimized, reducing risks throughout the entire transportation process.

• Minimal handling significantly lowers the risk of damage.
• Special trucks are available for temperature-sensitive or fragile cargo.
• Enhanced security protects valuable shipments from theft.
• Direct delivery avoids the risk of multiple loading and unloading points.
• Ideal for industries such as electronics, luxury goods, or artwork.
• Guarantees compliance with strict customs or regulatory requirements.

FTL is the safest and most reliable choice for valuable or fragile shipments.

Direct routes

Full Truck Load ensures that goods are transported on the most efficient and direct routes. This minimizes transit times, reduces risks, and guarantees on-time delivery.

• No intermediate stops, meaning goods are transported without interruption to their destination.
• Reduces delays caused by handling consolidated shipments or route changes.
• Improves the accuracy of delivery schedules for time-sensitive goods.
• Lower risk of damage due to frequent loading and unloading.
• Ideal for industries with tight delivery deadlines and high-value goods.
• Enhances supply chain efficiency by prioritizing direct delivery routes.

The direct routing of FTL ensures faster, safer, and more reliable transportation.

Simplification of logistics

FTL simplifies logistics by dedicating an entire truck to a single shipment, eliminating the complexity of less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation. This allows businesses to focus on their core operations.

• Eliminates the need to coordinate partial loads or shared transport.
• Reduces administrative workload by streamlining transport planning.
• Ensures predictable delivery times with minimal external disruptions.
• Enhances tracking and visibility by focusing on a single shipment.
• Improves resource allocation by eliminating cross-docking complexities.
• Simplifies regulatory compliance for sensitive goods.

FTL minimizes logistical challenges, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently.

Replenishment of stocks

FTL is ideal for efficient and reliable inventory replenishment, especially for businesses with high-demand or time-sensitive stock.

• Delivers large quantities in a single trip, avoiding frequent small shipments.
• Ensures timely stock replenishment to prevent supply chain disruptions.
• Offers flexibility in handling various product types, including fragile goods.
• Reduces warehousing costs through just-in-time replenishment.
• Direct routes guarantee that inventory arrives precisely when and where it is needed.
• Ensures smooth distribution across retail, manufacturing, and warehouse sectors.

Shipping a full truckload ensures seamless inventory management through fast and efficient stock replenishment.

Seasonal demand management

FTL is essential during peak seasons when businesses must meet high demand for timely product delivery. It offers both capacity and reliability in such critical periods.

• Handles high shipping volumes required due to seasonal sales spikes.
• Minimizes the risk of supply shortages during peak demand periods.
• Enables the use of specialized vehicles to meet tight schedules without delays.
• Ensures on-time deliveries to distribution centers and retail stores.
• Facilitates peak demand management with reliable and scalable transport solutions.
• Enhances customer satisfaction through consistently high product availability.

Full truckload transport provides the flexibility needed to handle seasonal fluctuations efficiently.

Shipping of heavy and oversized goods

FTL is an excellent choice for heavy and oversized shipments that require special handling and dedicated space. With full truckload transport, a specially equipped truck ensures safe and efficient delivery of the cargo.

• Flatbed trailers or specialized carriers are available for transporting oversized goods.
• Eliminates space constraints commonly found in shared or partial loads.
• Minimizes the risk of damage during transit through customized handling.
• Ensures compliance with legal weight and size regulations.
• Ideal for transporting construction materials, machinery, and industrial equipment.
• Guarantees efficient loading and unloading with the appropriate tools.

Full truckload transport ensures that heavy and oversized goods are delivered safely and without complications to their destination.

Cost reduction when shipping large quantities of goods

FTL is a cost-effective solution for transporting large volumes of goods, as it maximizes truck capacity and reduces transportation costs per unit.

• Lowers unit costs by utilizing the full truckload capacity.
• Saves time and resources by reducing the need for multiple smaller shipments.
• Avoids additional expenses for stopovers or reloading.
• Ensures fuel efficiency by consolidating goods into a single shipment.
• Optimizes logistics for businesses with a consistent need for bulk transportation.
• Minimizes administrative costs by streamlining shipment management.

Full truckload transport helps businesses achieve significant cost savings when handling large shipments.

Security

FTL provides a safer shipping method as the truck is used exclusively for a single load, reducing handling and increasing control over the goods during transport.

• Goods remain untouched throughout the journey, minimizing the risk of theft.
• Prevents contamination or damage from other shipments.
• Sealed trucks protect against tampering and unauthorized access.
• GPS tracking ensures real-time shipment visibility.
• Ideal for sensitive, high-value, or regulated goods.
• Supports compliance with industry-specific security standards.

Shipping a full truckload is the safest option for businesses that prioritize the security of their goods.

Specialized service

FTL provides customized transport solutions for goods requiring special handling, storage, or specific conditions, ensuring that every unique logistics need is met.

• Temperature-controlled trucks for perishable or pharmaceutical goods.
• Hazardous materials transport with specialized vehicles and trained drivers.
• Special loading and unloading procedures for fragile goods.
• Compliance with strict industry regulations for specific freight types.
• Transportation of oversized or irregularly shaped products.
• Flexible scheduling to meet specific delivery requirements.

The specialized services of full truckload transport guarantee reliable solutions for complex logistical challenges.

Control of delivery dates

In full truckload (FTL) transport, a company has full control over delivery schedules, meaning that FTL shipments arrive exactly when needed. This is especially important for time-critical supply chains.

• A dedicated FTL truck guarantees precise delivery times.
• Delays due to shared or consolidated shipments are eliminated.
• Allows flexibility in planning pickups and deliveries to meet operational requirements.
• Enables just-in-time (JIT) deliveries, helping to minimize storage costs.
• Ensures reliability for industries with strict production or retail deadlines.
• Consistent and on-time full truckload shipping contributes to increased customer satisfaction.

FTL logistics offers maximum control over shipments, aligning them with company schedules and objectives.

Prices for an FTL transport

The price of FTL transport depends on several key factors. Understanding these factors helps businesses plan their budgets accurately and optimize full truckload logistics costs. Below are the four main elements influencing FTL pricing:

1. Distance and Route. One of the most critical factors is the transport route. The longer the distance or if it involves international FTL shipments, the higher the costs for fuel consumption, driver hours, and potential toll fees. Complex routes, such as those passing through remote areas or crossing borders, can also lead to increased expenses.
2. Freight Characteristics. The type, weight, and volume of the cargo significantly impact pricing. Heavy and oversized goods requiring special permits and equipment result in higher costs compared to standard shipments. Additionally, hazardous and temperature-sensitive goods necessitate specialized vehicles, which typically increase FTL shipping expenses.
3. Market Conditions and Truck Availability. The pricing of full truckload transportation is influenced by market demand and the availability of trucks. During peak seasons or periods of high demand, rates can increase due to limited capacity. Early booking and flexible scheduling can help businesses mitigate these costs.
4. Additional services and requirements. Additional services such as expedited delivery, real-time tracking, or specific loading and unloading requirements increase the overall cost of FTL transport. A freight insurance policy for particularly valuable goods, as well as compliance with regulations for hazardous materials, can also add to the expenses.

On average, the cost of full truckload (FTL) transport ranges between €1.50 and €2.50 per kilometer, depending on the factors mentioned above. For a more precise pricing estimate, companies should request customized quotes tailored to their specific needs.

FTL transport software solutions: What to look out for?

When searching for FTL transport management software, the focus should be on streamlining operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring real-time visibility. The ideal platform should automate key processes such as order management, carrier selection, and document generation while seamlessly integrating with your existing logistics systems. Real-time tracking and route optimization are essential features to enhance transparency and cost efficiency. Additionally, the software should ensure compliance with legal regulations and simplify handling transport documents, including invoicing, approval processing, and customs clearance.

A great example of such a solution is Shipstage. It connects shippers and carriers while automating intermediary processes—from selecting a freight forwarder based on pricing to shipment tracking and printing necessary documents. With Shipstage, companies can efficiently manage full truckload (FTL) transport, ensuring smooth operations at the most competitive rates while maintaining full transparency and control over their logistics processes. For more details, visit Shipstage.

FAQ

How does a full truckload differ from other shipping methods?

In full truckload (FTL) transport, the entire truck is used for a single shipment, ensuring direct transportation from the pickup location to the destination. Unlike less-than-truckload (LTL) transport, where multiple shipments are combined, full truckload shipping minimizes transshipment, reduces transit time, and significantly increases cargo security.

How much cargo can be transported in one truck?

In Europe, a standard truck in FTL transport can carry a maximum of 40 tons, including the vehicle's weight. The available space typically ranges between 80 and 120 cubic meters, depending on the truck type and configuration (e.g., curtain-sided or box trucks).

What documents are required for the transportation of a full truckload?

The documents required for FTL transport include a bill of lading, proof of contract, and delivery details. A commercial invoice, packing list, and permits are also necessary for special or cross-border shipments.

What do I need to consider when packing a full truckload?

Goods should be properly packed to prevent damage. They must be stacked on pallets, evenly distributed, and securely fastened. For fragile or valuable items, additional protection such as padding or strapping is recommended to keep the shipment stable during transport.

Can I choose a full truckload for international transportation?

Of course, full truckloads (FTL) are ideal for international shipments that require direct door-to-door service and enhanced security. It is always advisable to ensure that all cross-border documents, customs declarations, and compliance requirements are in place before transport.