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Choose FTL (full truckload) when the cargo fills most of the trailer, is urgent or is sensitive: it runs a direct route with no transhipments. Choose LTL (groupage) when you have a small quantity and pay only for the space you use, accepting transhipments and a longer transit. Volume, urgency, sensitivity and budget decide.
The difference between FTL and LTL
In the FTL model, the whole load space carries goods from a single customer. The vehicle runs from sender to consignee without adding anyone else's freight, which limits the number of handling operations. In the LTL model, one vehicle carries shipments from several shippers at once. Consignments first go to a terminal, are consolidated with others and may be transhipped en route. You then pay for the part of the space you occupy, not for the whole truck.
When does FTL (full truckload) pay off?
Consider FTL when you need control and predictability:
- Large quantity filling most of the trailer: with a fully used vehicle the cost per pallet falls.
- Tight deadline: a direct route with no terminal stops shortens transit time.
- Sensitive or fragile cargo: fewer transhipments mean lower risk of damage or loss.
- Goods needing controlled conditions (for example a stable temperature or a single regime) or heightened security.
When does LTL (groupage) pay off?
LTL works when you do not need the whole vehicle:
- Small quantity: you pay only for the space used, so groupage can beat a half-empty FTL run.
- Flexible deadline: you can accept the longer transit that consolidation and transhipment involve.
- Regular small deliveries to many points, where booking a whole truck would be uneconomical.
- Robust goods that tolerate handling and transhipment, well packed and clearly labelled.
What to watch for with groupage (LTL)
Groupage shares the vehicle with other freight, so it calls for care:
- Packing and palletising: the shipment must survive several transhipments, so solid, stable packaging matters.
- Labelling and documents: clear marks and complete paperwork cut the risk of a mix-up during consolidation.
- Transit time: terminal stops extend delivery, which you must factor into planning.
- Nature of the goods: sensitive, oversized or regime-specific cargo is often better moved as FTL.
How does OTSL choose FTL or LTL?
We start from your cargo and the purpose of the move, not from a fixed template. We ask about volume and weight, deadline, direction, cargo sensitivity and budget, then propose the model that genuinely pays off, with the reasoning. When the volume sits on the borderline, we compare both options. To discuss a specific load, use the contact form; we describe our transport scope under services and industry terms in the glossary.
| Criterion | FTL (full truckload) | LTL (groupage) |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle use | whole truck, one shipper | part of the truck, several shippers |
| Route | direct | with consolidation and transhipment |
| Delivery time | usually shorter | usually longer |
| Transhipments | few or none | more |
| Cost for a small quantity | usually higher | usually lower |
| Sensitive cargo | more favourable | needs care |
Step by step
- Measure parameters. Calculate the exact weight, volume and physical dimensions of your cargo.
- Evaluate urgency. Check whether the required delivery time allows for transit via linehaul terminals.
- Select options. Choose between a full trailer and shared space based on cargo volume.
- Prepare consignment. Secure goods on pallets and complete the transport documentation.
- Initiate transport. Hand over the shipment to the carrier for execution along the chosen route.
Definitions
- FTL (Full Truck Load): Hiring the entire load space of a vehicle for a single shipper on a direct route.
- LTL (Less than Truck Load): Sharing one vehicle's load space between shipments from several different shippers.
- Consolidation: Combining multiple smaller consignments into a single groupage load at a logistics terminal.
- Transhipment: Moving cargo between vehicles or storage units at a terminal during transit.
When does this rule not apply?
This rule depends on cargo properties and safety protocols, as small hazardous or temperature-controlled consignments may require an exclusive vehicle regardless of volume.
The OTSL role
OTSL manages international transport flows across European routes, providing structured groupage services alongside dedicated full loads. Explore our guide on dostawy grupowe i drobnica po Europie for insights on cargo handling.
