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Partial Truckload

See how partial truckload saves money and offers a Low-Cost alternative for LTL shipping. Use our Instant Freight Rate calculator to get instant quotes

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Why Choose FreightCenter For Your Partial Truckloads?

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Experienced PTL Shipping

Our experienced staff will manage all the variables needed to ensure a smooth shipping and safe arrival of your less-than-truckload cargo, including coordinating pickup and delivery, customs management, and permits. Planning is the key to successful cargo transport. We have earned a reputation for meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations. 800.716.7608

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LTL (Less-Than-Truckload)

LTL shipping is used for small freight or when the items don't require the use of an entire trailer. Your freight is combined with other shipments to fill an entire trailer. It is ideal for shipments under 15,000 pounds.

Full Truckload

Full truckload is used when shippers have enough items to fill an entire truck or they want their shipment in a trailer all by itself.

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What our customers are saying

I would recommend Freightcenter.com to anyone.

Working With Jennifer Rendine has been super easy. I know that every detail will be taken care of with each and every shipment. I would recommend Freightcenter.com to anyone. 5 Stars!

Jeff

It was very easy to do and priced right

It was very easy to do and priced right . The people I talked to were very friendly and helpful !

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It was a great experience. Everything went very smoothly. My customer service rep was exceptional!

Deb

Thank you Freight Center for the good job.

I have used Freight Center for 3 different pickups and so far everything has worked beautifully. I would highly recommend their services and the pricing is very competitive. Thank you Freight Center for the good job.

David

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So happy using FreightCenter. Great service and the lowest price. My go to shipper from now on!

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2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses

What Our Customers Say about our PTL Service

FreightCenter offers reliable, on-time, cost-effective partial truckload shipping services. Shipping Partial Load volumes can be expensive if you pay for a full container or trailer to ship your smaller freight. FreightCenter’s logistics services coordinate LTL freight scheduling to combine shipments from different companies to create a full truckload. This lowers shipping costs for all companies utilizing the LTL service.

As an experienced shipping broker, we have a broad network of carriers that provides us with flexibility and the resources to coordinate shipments throughout North America so that we can arrange shipment to your destination, saving you freight costs and allowing you greater visibility of your transportation spend.

Our network of over 11,000 carriers can provide access to the type of LTL trucking setup you need to transport your freight, including vans, flatbeds, step decks & double drops. The carriers in our network are qualified professionals and maintain the highest DOT safety ratings, substantial liability and cargo insurance, industry certifications, and international documentation.

FreightCenter PTL by the numbers

25 Years In Business

1.5m+ LTL Shipments Delivered

93%+ On-Time Performance

99.1% Damage Free LTL Shipments

What Is A Partial Load?

A partial truckload, also known as PTL shipping, refers to a shipment that doesn’t require the entire capacity of a truck trailer. It is a cost-effective and flexible transportation solution that allows multiple smaller shipments from different shippers to be combined and transported. In contrast to full truckload (FTL) shipping, where the entire truck is dedicated to a single shipment, partial loads optimize trailer space and resources by consolidating multiple shipments.

The concept of a partial load arises from not all shipments requiring a full truck’s space. Many businesses have smaller quantities of goods or parcels that need to be transported, making it inefficient and costly to book an entire truck. Partial loads solve this problem by providing a shared transportation option that allows shippers to split the cost of the truck and utilize only the space they need.

Regarding partial load shipping, the critical advantage lies in its cost-saving potential. By sharing trailer space with other shippers, each party pays only for the space their shipment occupies, effectively reducing transportation expenses. This cost efficiency makes partial loads attractive to small and medium-sized businesses with lower shipping volumes or irregular shipment sizes.

Another benefit of partial load shipping is the flexibility it offers. Unlike FTL shipping, which requires precise coordination and timing to fill an entire truck, partial loads can accommodate shipments of varying sizes and be scheduled more flexibly. This flexibility allows shippers to optimize their logistics processes, as they can ship smaller quantities whenever needed without waiting for a full truckload.

In addition to cost savings and flexibility, partial load shipping offers improved transit times and reduced risk of damage. Since partial loads involve multiple shipments in a single truck, there is minimal handling and fewer chances for cargo to be damaged or lost in transit. This is especially advantageous for delicate or fragile goods requiring extra transportation care.

To facilitate the efficient handling and transportation of partial loads, specialized carriers and logistics providers play a vital role. These companies have expertise in consolidating and managing multiple shipments, optimizing routes, and coordinating delivery schedules. They have extensive networks and resources to handle partial load shipments efficiently, minimizing transit times and ensuring timely delivery.

In conclusion, a partial load is a shipment that doesn’t require the full capacity of a truck trailer, allowing multiple smaller shipments to be combined and transported together. It offers cost savings, flexibility, improved transit times, and reduced risk of damage. Businesses can efficiently transport smaller goods and optimize their supply chain operations by leveraging carriers’ and logistics providers’ shared resources and expertise. Whether you have small or irregular shipments, partial load shipping provides a practical and economical solution for your transportation needs

PTL vs. LTL Transit Times

Partial truckload shipments generally have reduced shipping times compared to less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments due to several key factors:

Direct Routing:

PTL shipments typically follow more direct routing from the origin to the destination. Unlike LTL shipments that often make multiple stops at various terminals and cross-docking facilities, PTL shipments involve fewer intermediate transfers. This means fewer delays are caused by additional handling, sorting, and rerouting processes. The streamlined routing of PTL shipments allows faster transit times and more efficient delivery.

Limited Handling and Transfers:

PTL shipments undergo less handling and fewer transfers compared to LTL shipments. With LTL, freight from different shippers is consolidated and deconsolidated at various terminals along the route. Each transfer introduces potential delays, as shipments must be sorted and organized before loading onto the appropriate truck. In contrast, PTL shipments are typically loaded directly onto the truck at the origin and delivered directly to the destination, minimizing the number of stops and handling processes. This reduction in handling and transfers leads to faster shipping times for shipments.

Expedited Service and Priority Treatment:

Carriers specializing in PTL services often provide expedited service and prioritize shipments due to their larger volumes or more actual freight. Carriers understand that Partial load shipments require dedicated truck space and allocate resources accordingly to ensure efficient transport. This priority treatment means shipments are given higher handling, loading, and transportation precedence. Carriers strive to meet the specified delivery timeframes for shipments, resulting in reduced shipping times compared to LTL shipments.

Optimized Trailer Utilization:

PTL shipments allow for optimized trailer utilization compared to LTL shipments. In LTL shipping, trucks are filled with smaller shipments from different shippers, resulting in less efficient use of trailer space. This can lead to longer transit times as the truck makes multiple stops for loading and unloading. With PTL shipments, however, the trailer is typically filled with fewer, larger shipments or consolidated loads from a limited number of shippers. This optimized trailer utilization allows for faster transportation, as fewer stops are required for loading and unloading along the route.

Efficient Carrier Networks and Resources:

Carriers specializing in PTL services often have well-established networks and resources, contributing to reduced shipping times. These carriers have developed efficient routes, strong partnerships with reliable terminals, and a fleet of trucks dedicated to shipments. Their expertise and network enable them to plan and execute shipments more effectively, minimizing delays and ensuring timely delivery. Additionally, carriers may leverage technology and real-time tracking systems to closely monitor shipments and proactively address any potential issues impacting shipping times.

While PTL shipments generally offer reduced shipping times compared to LTL, it’s essential to consider that actual transit times can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the origin and destination, traffic conditions, weather events, and any specific shipping requirements. Working with a reputable carrier and providing accurate and detailed shipment information can help optimize shipping times and ensure smooth transportation.

Four factors of PTL Pricing:

When it comes to pricing for partial truckload (PTL) shipments, several factors come into play. These factors can influence the overall cost of the shipment and help determine the pricing structure. Here are four key factors that impact PTL pricing:

Weight & Size:

Does your load weigh 5,000 to 25,000 pounds? What is the number of pallets you are going to be shipping?

Type of freight:

Is your shipment Fragile or Durable? Is it consolidated into one multi-pallet unit or multiple pallets?

Type of delivery:

Does it need to be expedited? Do you need your shipment to show up in a specific timeframe? Shippers that want to use PTL have to be flexible. There isn't always a trailer that has enough space for your shipment.

Accessorial:

Do you have specific loading or unloading requirements? Do you need any special equipment to load or unload your shipment?

Instant Partial Rate

PTL Typical Demographics

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping is a transportation solution that caters to specific demographics and shipment characteristics. It is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses with moderate shipping needs within the weight and volume ranges of 5,000 to 25,000 pounds and 5 to 22 pallets.

One of the main advantages of PTL for small to medium-sized businesses is its cost-effectiveness. These businesses may not have enough goods to fill an entire truck, making full truckload (FTL) shipping financially impractical. By utilizing PTL, they can share the transportation cost with other shippers with compatible shipment sizes and destinations. This shared cost model allows businesses to access the benefits of truckload shipping without incurring the expenses associated with dedicated truck services.

Small to medium-sized businesses across various industries can benefit from PTL shipping. Manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers often have moderate quantities of goods to ship regularly, making them ideal candidates for PTL. The weight and volume ranges associated with PTL align with their shipping needs and allow them to optimize their transportation operations. By utilizing PTL, these businesses can ensure their goods are transported efficiently, cost-effectively, and in line with their shipment requirements.

Flexibility is another critical advantage of PTL for businesses with varying or fluctuating shipping needs. Seasonal companies, startups, or businesses experiencing periods of growth or change may find it challenging to commit to a fixed schedule or the rigid nature of FTL shipping. PTL offers the flexibility to accommodate changing shipment volumes and frequencies. As business needs evolve, PTL allows for adjustments in shipment sizes without the constraints associated with FTL. This adaptability enables businesses to maintain efficiency in their shipping operations and meet changing customer demands.

Furthermore, businesses that prioritize minimizing handling and reducing the risk of damage find PTL appealing. With PTL, shipments are typically loaded directly onto the truck at the origin and delivered directly to the destination. This reduces the number of handling points and transfers, minimizing the risk of damage or loss during transit. For businesses that ship fragile or delicate goods, PTL provides the peace of mind that their shipments will be handled carefully and delivered safely to their destinations.

In conclusion, the typical demographics of PTL users include small to medium-sized businesses that require transportation for shipments ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 pounds and occupying the space of 5 to 22 pallets. These businesses benefit from the cost savings, flexibility, and reduced handling that PTL offers. By leveraging PTL services, small to medium-sized businesses can optimize their shipping operations, adapt to changing shipment needs, and ensure their goods’ efficient and cost-effective transportation.

Types of Shippers Using Partial Truckloads: Catering to Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping is a transportation solution that caters to a specific demographic of shippers, primarily small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). These shippers often have unique shipping needs that fall between the capacity of less than truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) shipments. Understanding the types of shippers who utilize PTL services can shed light on the benefits and advantages this shipping method offers.

Small-medium-sized businesses, commonly called SMBs, are the primary users of PTL services. These businesses typically have moderate shipping needs that exceed the capabilities of LTL shipping but don’t require the space and cost associated with FTL shipping. SMBs encompass various industries, including manufacturing, retail, wholesale, and distribution. They may produce or distribute goods in quantities that range from 5 to 20 pallets, making PTL an ideal solution to meet their shipping requirements.

For SMBs, PTL offers a cost-effective alternative to FTL shipping. FTL shipping can be costly for smaller businesses, as they may not have enough goods to fill an entire truck. By sharing the truck space with other shippers in a PTL arrangement, SMBs can split the cost of transportation, making it more affordable for their budget. This cost-sharing model allows SMBs to access the benefits of truckload shipping without paying for unused space, ultimately maximizing their shipping efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

PTL is also attractive to SMBs due to its flexibility and agility. Unlike FTL, which requires a full truck’s worth of goods to be shipped simultaneously, PTL allows businesses to send their goods in smaller quantities. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for SMBs with varying shipment volumes or irregular shipping patterns. For example, seasonal businesses may experience fluctuations in their shipping needs throughout the year, and PTL enables them to adjust their shipment sizes accordingly without committing to a full truckload.

Another advantage of PTL for SMBs is the reduced risk of damage and the potential for faster transit times compared to LTL. With LTL shipments, goods are typically handled and transferred multiple times during transit, increasing the risk of damage and extending the delivery timeline. In contrast, PTL shipments remain on the same truck, reducing the number of handling points and minimizing the risk of damage. Additionally, since PTL shipments are consolidated with other shippers’ loads, the delivery route can be more direct, resulting in shorter transit times than traditional LTL shipments.

FreightCenter, as a leading logistics provider, understands the unique needs of SMBs and offers tailored PTL solutions to cater to their shipping requirements. By leveraging our extensive carrier network, industry expertise, and advanced technology platform, we connect SMBs with reliable and cost-effective PTL services. We aim to simplify the shipping process, provide transparent pricing, and offer exceptional customer support to ensure a smooth and efficient shipping experience.

Whether you’re a small manufacturer, a retail business, or a distributor, FreightCenter is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of transportation and find the right PTL solution for your needs. Request a rate estimate today and experience the convenience and cost savings of PTL shipping with FreightCenter.

Advantages of Arranging a Partial Truckload:

Faster Delivery for a Lower Price. Weight limits on partials are between 5K lbs and 25k lbs. This type of shipping will compete with LTL rates while giving the delivery times of FTL services—the benefits of Partial shipping offer fewer stops, less handling, and cargo insurance options.

Partial truckload services do not need freight class classifications and have some limitations.
Freight shipping moves most shipments through trade routes. If you are within these routes, your service times will be fast for pickup and delivery.
Heavy products on a few pallets only sometimes qualify for PTL services.
Complete logistic management of your shipment
Door-to-door delivery and cross-border logistics for shipping throughout North America (US, Mexico, and Canada)
Expedited transport of emergency supplies & mission-critical equipment
Guaranteed service quality at competitive rates
GPS tracking & real-time location updates
Comprehensive insurance for high-value loads

We serve a range of industries, including oil and gas, petrochemical, power generation, mining, construction, and manufacturing. Our commitment to excellence, supported by our staff and extensive network, will ensure that your specialty or standard cargo will reach its destination safely and on time. 800.716.7608

When to Use PTL Shipping

As stated earlier, PTL may be a better option than LTL. This applies to shipments with more than 4 pallets or if the total weight exceeds 5,000 lbs. There are some cases when the cost of PTL and LTL are the same. If you choose LTL, you’ll pay for a longer transit time and have your shipment switch trailers several times.

PTL shipping doesn’t charge you for dimensional weight. Last but not least, as we stated before, there’s less chance that your shipment will be damaged because it will go through fewer unloads. We want to note here: sometimes, a company offering PTL won’t ship something deemed sensitive, as they don’t want to deal with unique classifications or the possibility of damage.

When is LTL Better than PTL?

PTL is an excellent option for shipments that weigh more than 5,000 lbs and require 5 or more pallets. On the other hand, LTL shipping is perfect for lightweight loads. LTL is almost always the best solution when shipping less than 5 pallets. LTL also has the advantage of getting a same-day pickup. This is due to the number of freight carriers that provide LTL shipping over PTL shipping.

Due to capacity, while the transit time of an LTL may take slightly longer than a PTL, an LTL will likely be delivered faster. Finding a truck with enough space to handle your shipment can take time.

Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.

Compare Partial Truckload Prices Instantly

Trust the experts at FreightCenter to give you the best prices and options for your shipping. The cheapest shipping cost from all the top carriers is just a few steps away. Fill in brief details about your shipment and receive instant Specialized Freight Services from leading freight carriers in one easy place. Businesses that ship products quickly become aware of the many options available.

You often have items you must send but can only fill part of the truck. PTL and LTL services give shippers the option of sending items to a location on an ongoing basis, whether shipping a few pallets or a complete load. Third-party logistics providers specialize in pairing shippers with the transportation services they need. Experts in logistics know how to find the right truck to fulfill the shippers’ needs.

If the shipper only needs 20 feet of space in a truck. In that case, logistics professionals have the knowledge and resources to match that carrier needing a 20-foot load with the shipper that needs 20 feet of truck space. But PTL and LTL can be confusing since they seem, on the surface, to refer to the same thing. However, there are differences between the two.

Conclusion

With the many parts of the shipping industry, LTL and FTL are the most dominant types of shipping. One is aimed at established businesses with massive shipping budgets, while the other is at smaller-medium-sized businesses. The rarer PTL isn’t in the same running as LTL and FTL, but it can be a hidden gem for a company that can utilize it. If that’s you, contact a freighter or broker and see what PTL can do for you!

Partial Truckload FAQs

Q. What is partial truckload shipping?

A. Partial truckload shipping is a transportation method that combines multiple smaller shipments from different shippers into a single trailer. It falls between less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipping. With a partial truckload, you pay for the space and weight your shipment occupies within the trailer, allowing you to share the costs with other shippers and achieve cost savings.

Q. When should I choose partial truckload shipping?

A. Partial truckload shipping is a great option when your shipment is too large for LTL but doesn’t require an entire truck. It is suitable for loads that weigh between 5,000 and 20,000 pounds or occupy more than six pallets. If you have time-sensitive or fragile freight, partial truckload can also provide more control and reduced handling compared to LTL.

Q. How does partial truckload differ from LTL and full truckload?

A. Partial truckload differs from LTL because it involves sharing trailer space with other shippers, whereas LTL shipments are combined with multiple loads in a hub-and-spoke system. Partial truckload offers greater security and reduced handling compared to LTL. In contrast, a full truckload involves booking an entire truck for your shipment, providing maximum capacity and faster transit times but at a higher cost.

Q. What are the advantages of partial truckload shipping?

A. Partial truckload shipping offers several advantages, including cost savings, reduced handling, increased security, and faster transit times compared to LTL. It allows more flexibility and control over your shipment than a full truckload. Additionally, partial truckload is more environmentally friendly as it reduces empty miles and optimizes trailer utilization.

Q. How does FreightCenter handle partial truckload shipments?

A. FreightCenter specializes in providing efficient and cost-effective solutions for partial truckload shipments. We leverage our extensive network of carriers to find the most competitive rates and reliable transportation options for your specific needs. Our online platform lets you quickly obtain quotes, compare rates, book shipments, and track your cargo in real-time. Our dedicated customer support team can assist you throughout the shipping process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Q. Is partial truckload shipping suitable for all types of freight?

A. Partial truckload shipping suits many freight types, including palletized goods, large or bulky items, fragile goods, and time-sensitive shipments. However, certain restrictions or limitations may depend on the carrier and specific shipment requirements. It’s best to consult with our team at FreightCenter to determine if partial truckload is the right choice for your particular freight.

Q. How do I determine the cost of a partial truckload shipment?

A. The cost of a partial truckload shipment is calculated based on factors such as the weight, dimensions, distance, and specific requirements of your freight. FreightCenter’s advanced technology and expertise allow us to provide accurate and competitive pricing for your partial truckload shipments. We can generate customized quotes tailored to your needs by providing detailed information about your freight.

Q. How can I track my partial truckload shipment?

A. FreightCenter provides a user-friendly online platform that allows you to track your partial truckload shipment in real time. You will receive tracking information once your shipment is booked, including the carrier details and a tracking number. Simply enter the tracking number on our website to access up-to-date tracking information and monitor the progress of your shipment from pickup to delivery.

Q. Can I insure my partial truckload shipment?

A. Yes, you can ensure your partial truckload shipment for added protection. FreightCenter offers cargo insurance options to safeguard your freight against loss or damage during transit. It’s important to discuss your insurance needs with our team and understand your coverage options.

Q. How do I get started with partial truckload shipping through FreightCenter?

A. Getting started with partial truckload shipping through FreightCenter is easy. Contact our team by phone or through our website to discuss your shipment requirements. Our experienced logistics experts will guide you through the process, provide you with competitive rates, and assist you in booking your partial truckload shipment.

3 Advantages of Using FreightCenter for a Partial Truckload

Cost Savings:

One of the major advantages of utilizing FreightCenter for partial truckload shipping is the cost savings it provides. With partial truckload shipping, you only pay for the space and weight your shipment occupies within the trailer rather than booking an entire truck. This cost-effective solution saves you on transportation expenses, especially when shipping smaller or less-than-truckload shipments. FreightCenter leverages its extensive network of carriers to find the most competitive rates for your partial truckload shipments, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Increased Flexibility:

Partial truckload shipping offers greater flexibility than full truckload shipping. With FreightCenter, you can combine your shipment with other compatible loads to maximize trailer utilization. This flexibility allows for more efficient use of transportation resources, reduces wasted space, and minimizes empty miles. By leveraging our load consolidation and optimization expertise, we can help you find the most suitable partial truckload solution that meets your specific requirements while optimizing cost and efficiency.

Streamlined Logistics Management:

FreightCenter provides a comprehensive logistics management platform simplifies partial truckload shipping. Our user-friendly online portal allows you to obtain quotes, compare rates, book shipments, and track your cargo all in one place. Our advanced technology and automated systems enable real-time tracking and proactive communication, informing you of your shipment's status from pickup to delivery. Additionally, our dedicated customer support team is available to assist you throughout the process, offering guidance and resolving any queries or issues that may arise. With FreightCenter, you can enjoy streamlined logistics management, saving you time and effort.