Truckload Freight Services
Request a truckload quote, review available options, and choose the equipment that fits your shipment.
FreightCenter gives you one place to enter shipment details, compare truckload rates, book service, and get help from a freight expert.
Truckload Shipping Services and Tools to Compare
Freight Calculator Dry Van Freight Shipping Flatbed Freight Shipping
Truckload Shipping Services and Tools to Compare
5 Tricks To Get The Best Shipping Rates Freight InsuranceWhen you need a dedicated trailer, FreightCenter’s truckload freight services help you move from shipment details to a booked truckload without shopping for options one provider at a time. You can request rates, select equipment, book a full truckload shipment, and return to FreightCenter for future shipping needs through the same platform.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Businesses Use FreightCenter for Truckload Freight Services
A truckload shipment can involve more than finding an available truck. The equipment has to fit the freight, the pickup and delivery details need to be accurate, and the rate needs to make sense for the lane and timing.
FreightCenter brings those decisions into one quoting and booking process, with expert help available when the shipment needs a closer look.
Benefits:
- Compare truckload options before you book. Enter your shipment information and review available choices rather than committing before you know what fits the load.
- Choose equipment around the freight. FreightCenter’s truckload options include equipment for enclosed, open-deck, temperature-controlled, and specialized shipments.
- Get help with harder shipping decisions. A freight specialist can help when you’re unsure about equipment, service requirements, or how to set up the shipment.
- Use FreightCenter for your next load too. Businesses with recurring truckload needs can return to the same platform instead of rebuilding the shipping process with a new provider for every shipment.
How Truckload Shipping Works with FreightCenter
Full truckload shipping gives one shipper use of the trailer rather than combining the shipment with other LTL freight. FreightCenter supports FTL shipments both when the freight uses substantial trailer space and when the shipper simply wants the shipment moved in its own trailer.
The booking process starts with the load itself. Provide the shipment details, review truckload options, select the service that fits, and confirm the booking through FreightCenter.
What to Have Ready Before Requesting a Truckload Quote
Better shipment information gives you a better starting point for comparing options.
Have these details ready:
- Pickup location
- Delivery location
- Requested pickup date
- Requested delivery date
- Total shipment weight
- What you’re shipping
- Required equipment type, if known
- Shipment dimensions when they affect equipment selection or fit
FreightCenter’s truckload quote flow includes origin, destination, requested dates, weight, equipment selection, and a description of what is being shipped.
If you don’t know the equipment type yet, start with the load details. A freight expert can help determine which option should be considered.
Choose the Trailer Around the Shipment
Not every truckload belongs in the same trailer. Equipment selection should follow the size, shape, loading method, and handling requirements of the freight.
Common options shown across FreightCenter’s truckload services include:
- Dry van: An enclosed trailer option for general full truckload freight.
- Refrigerated trailer: Used when the shipment needs temperature-controlled transportation.
- Flatbed: An open-deck option for loads that are oversized, heavy, irregularly shaped, or easier to load from the side or above.
- Step deck: An open-deck option FreightCenter lists for loads that need additional height clearance compared with a standard flatbed.
- RGN: A removable gooseneck trailer designed for heavy or oversized equipment and front-end loading.
- Conestoga: A covered open-deck option that provides side, rear, or overhead loading access while protecting the freight.
Choosing the right equipment before booking can prevent a situation where the truck arrives but cannot load the freight as planned.
When Full Truckload Shipping Makes Sense
Truckload shipping is worth comparing when a dedicated trailer solves a specific shipping need.
That may include shipments where:
- The freight takes up substantial trailer space.
- You don’t want the shipment consolidated with other LTL freight.
- The dimensions or shape call for a specific trailer.
- Open-deck equipment is needed for loading.
- Temperature control is required.
- The shipment has a defined pickup or delivery schedule that should be considered when comparing service.
- Your business repeatedly moves larger loads on established shipping lanes.
FreightCenter’s current truckload page specifically supports full truckload quoting for shippers that have enough freight to fill a truck or want their shipment in a trailer by itself.
Truckload vs. LTL Is a Shipment Decision
A shipment doesn’t automatically become truckload freight just because it’s large.
LTL combines freight from multiple shippers in the same trailer, while full truckload gives the trailer to one shipper. That makes the amount of trailer space you need, the equipment required, and your preference for a dedicated trailer more useful decision points than relying on a single rule.
If the choice isn’t obvious, compare the available options before booking.
Build Truckload Shipping Around Repeatable Information
For repeat shippers, consistency starts with getting the shipment details right.
Keep commonly used information such as facility locations, receiving requirements, equipment needs, typical load weights, and normal pickup schedules accessible to your shipping team. Then each new truckload freight quote starts from accurate operating information rather than estimates remembered from the last shipment.
FreightCenter also provides a Sign In / Register option for businesses that plan to return for future quotes and bookings.
The right truckload service depends on what you're moving and how it needs to be loaded, protected, or scheduled. Explore these FreightCenter services when a standard truckload setup doesn't match the shipment.
FreightCenter connects shippers to trusted carriers offering enclosed dry van trailers for general
Our carrier network includes temperature-controlled trucks to move perishable items like produce, dairy, pharmaceuticals, and more—safely and on time.
FreightCenter’s flatbed FTL solutions support oversized and irregularly shaped cargo, ideal for heavy equipment, lumber, and construction materials.
When your freight is too tall for a standard flatbed, FreightCenter offers step deck trailers that allow for higher clearance and safe transport.
For extremely tall loads like industrial equipment, we provide double drop deck trailers with a low central well for maximum height flexibility.
FreightCenter can arrange RGN trailers for freight that needs to be driven directly onto the trailer—commonly used for construction, oilfield, and agricultural machinery.
We offer Conestoga trailers—flatbeds with retractable tarping systems—for freight that needs side loading and protection from weather without the need for shrink wrap.
Need your freight fast? FreightCenter offers expedited FTL shipping with team drivers and priority service to meet tight deadlines.
FreightCenter partners with certified hazmat carriers to handle shipments of chemicals, batteries, flammables, and other regulated materials safely and legally.
Our logistics experts coordinate heavy haul shipments requiring special permits, escorts, and equipment—perfect for large-scale industrial freight.
If you already own or rent your trailers, FreightCenter can provide power-only capacity—tractors and drivers to move your freight efficiently.
FreightCenter helps high-volume shippers secure dedicated equipment and drivers for consistent lanes, exclusive routes, or specialized freight needs.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
What Affects Truckload Freight Rates?
Truckload rates depend on the specific load, lane, equipment, and timing. Accurate shipment details give you a more useful basis for comparing available options before booking.
Important rate and service factors include:
- Origin and destination: The pickup and delivery locations define the shipping lane and affect which capacity may be available for the move.
- Shipment weight: Weight is part of FreightCenter’s truckload quote information and can affect which equipment can handle the load.
- Dimensions and load footprint: Length, width, and height become especially important when the freight may require open-deck or specialized equipment.
- Equipment type: Dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, step deck, RGN, Conestoga, and other truckload options serve different load requirements. Equipment choice can change the available rate options.
- Pickup and delivery dates: The requested schedule helps define when capacity is needed and should be included when requesting a quote. Truckload transit planning also has to account for federal hours-of-service regulations for property-carrying drivers, which limit how long commercial drivers can drive and remain on duty.
- Pickup and delivery requirements: Facility access, loading method, receiving restrictions, or additional service requirements can change how the shipment must be handled.
- Special handling needs: Oversized dimensions, temperature requirements, or other shipment-specific needs may narrow the equipment and service options available.
- Carrier availability and market conditions: FreightCenter’s current truckload guidance identifies market demand as one factor that can influence truckload pricing.
- Fuel: Fuel conditions are also identified by FreightCenter as one of the variables that can affect full truckload costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truckload Freight
Q. What is Truckload Freight Shipping?
Truckload freight shipping (also called FTL) refers to using an entire trailer to move a single shipper’s freight. It’s ideal for large-volume shipments that need direct, secure, and fast delivery.
Q. What makes FreightCenter's truckload freight services different?
FreightCenter gives shippers one place to enter load details, compare available truckload options, select equipment, and book service. Straightforward loads can be handled online, while a freight specialist can help when equipment, loading requirements, timing, or other shipment details need a closer look.
Q. How does truckload differ from LTL shipping?
FTL shipping utilizes a dedicated truck for your freight, whereas LTL shipping consolidates shipments from multiple shippers onto a single trailer. FTL is faster, with less handling and lower risk of damage.
Q. How much does truckload freight shipping cost?
FTL costs vary based on distance, equipment type, weight, fuel rates, and market demand. Use our freight rate calculator to instantly compare rates from over 100 carriers.
Q. How long does Full Truckload shipping take?
Most FTL shipments take 1–5 business days, depending on the distance, route, and service type (standard or expedited). Expedited truckload services offer guaranteed delivery windows.
Q. What equipment types are available for truckload freight?
We offer a wide range of FTL options, including dry vans, reefers, flatbeds, step decks, RGNs, Conestogas, and more.
Q. How big does a shipment need to be for FTL?
Generally, shipments weighing more than 15,000 pounds or containing more than 10 pallets qualify for full truckload freight. If you’re unsure, a freight expert can help match you with the right service.
Q. Can I track my truckload shipment in real time?
Yes. FreightCenter provides real-time tracking and shipment updates from pickup to delivery.
Q. Is truckload freight shipping available nationwide?
Yes. We provide nationwide FTL service, including regional, cross-country, and cross-border routes across all 50 states.
Q. Can I schedule a specific pickup time?
Most FTL carriers offer flexible pickup windows, and time-critical shipments can be scheduled with narrow pickup and delivery windows if needed.
Q. Do you offer expedited truckload freight services?
Yes. Our expedited truckload options include team drivers and guaranteed transit times for urgent deliveries.
Q. What types of freight can I ship via FTL?
FTL is ideal for bulk commodities, machinery, packaged goods, construction materials, oversized freight, and temperature-sensitive products.
Q. Do I need a dock or forklift for truckload shipping?
Typically, yes. If you don’t have one, we can arrange for liftgate service to assist with loading and unloading.
Q. Are FTL shipments insured?
Yes. Basic liability coverage is included, and we offer freight insurance for added protection, especially for high-value cargo.
Q. Can I ship hazardous materials via truckload?
Yes. We work with hazmat-certified carriers and ensure all regulatory documentation and labeling are handled properly.
Q. What is a power-only truckload service?
Power-only means we provide the tractor and driver while you supply the trailer. It’s ideal for trailer pools, drop-and-hook operations, or pre-loaded freight.
Q. What’s the difference between dry van and flatbed FTL?
Q. Do you offer dedicated truckload services?
Yes. Dedicated FTL services provide a truck exclusively for your freight, ensuring faster, secure, and uninterrupted delivery.
Q. Can I ship temperature-controlled truckload freight?
Absolutely. Our reefer truckload services are perfect for frozen foods, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and other perishable items.
Q. How do I get a truckload freight quote?
Just fill out our online FTL quote form to instantly compare truckload rates from multiple carriers.
Q. Why should I choose FreightCenter for truckload freight services?
FreightCenter combines over 25 years of experience, a network of more than 20,000 carriers, AI-powered rate matching, and expert logistics support to deliver dependable, cost-effective truckload freight services.
3 Truckload Details That Can Change Your Quote
1. Trailer Fit Matters Before Price
A low rate does not help if the equipment cannot load or safely accommodate the shipment. Confirm dimensions, weight, loading method, and equipment requirements before comparing truckload options
2. Pickup and Delivery Conditions Matter
Dock access, loading equipment, receiving hours, appointments, and facility restrictions can affect how the shipment needs to be handled. Include these details before booking instead of addressing them after a truck has been assigned.
3. Repeat Lanes Get Easier When Shipment Details Stay Consistent
If your business ships the same lanes regularly, keep facility information, common equipment requirements, typical weights, and receiving restrictions available to your shipping team. Each new quote can then start with accurate information instead of rebuilding the load from memory.
