What is FTL in transport logistics?

FTL (Full Truckload) is a road-transport mode where a single shipment or customer fills an entire truck. Unlike LTL (less-than-truckload), which consolidates several smaller loads, an FTL truck carries one consignment from origin to destination.

When to use FTL

Shippers choose FTL when the load is big enough to fill a truck, when they need a dedicated vehicle even if it is not full, when the freight is time-critical, or when goods are fragile, high-value or hazardous and should not share space.

FTL vs LTL

• Speed: FTL runs direct with no intermediate stops, so transit is faster.
• Handling: loaded and unloaded once, which reduces damage risk.
• Cost: FTL costs more than a part load or LTL, but you get the whole vehicle.

FTL is a core part of road freight, and its profitability comes down to planning the route and filling the return leg. In the Planner Module from IMPARGO the truck-legal route, per-country toll and full tour cost are calculated before dispatch, so every FTL tour is priced accurately.