Think about cargo footprint, whether pallets can be stacked, the number of handovers and the delivery deadline. Dedicated capacity may make sense well before a truck is filled by weight.
Different economics
FTL reserves a vehicle or planned dedicated capacity. LTL combines separate shipments through a shared network. Whether LTL is cheaper depends on weight, pallet footprint, terminal handling and distance, not just shipment count.
Handling exposure
Dedicated truck cargo generally has fewer intermediate handovers. LTL can pass through multiple terminals, making labelling, pallet strength and claims documentation particularly important.
Schedule trade-offs
A direct FTL trip may be easier to align with a timed delivery. Groupage schedules may be more limited and may include fixed collection and distribution days.
Compare like for like
Ask both providers to include collection, delivery, fuel, waiting, appointments, access requirements and insurance terms. Price alone is not a service-level comparison.
Volume alone does not decide truck type
Ten stackable pallets and ten fragile, nonstackable pallets may use very different truck floor space. Measure loading metres and gross weight, then weigh groupage handling against an FTL vehicle’s dedicated routing and dock schedule.
This is an illustrative planning example, not a current quotation, legal instruction or promise of transport capacity. Confirm shipment-specific requirements with the responsible carrier, broker or regulator.