Truckload Capacity
Understand and Optimize Truckload Capacity with FreightCenter
Moving freight efficiently starts with knowing your truckload options. At FreightCenter, we’ve helped thousands of businesses streamline their shipments by navigating market capacity with ease. From equipment availability to seasonal demand shifts, our experts help you plan smarter, ship faster, and stay ahead of delays. Get a quote today and keep your supply chain moving strong.
Related FreightCenter Resources
Shared Truckload Services Sprinter Van Shipping Services Freight Calculator
Master Truckload Shipping – Flexible, Reliable, and Cost-Effective
Navigating truckload shipping takes more than just booking a truck—it requires understanding market capacity, planning ahead, and choosing the right partner. At FreightCenter, we help you make sense of shifting truckload availability so your freight gets where it needs to go, without the guesswork.
Whether you’re moving a single full truckload or coordinating multiple lanes, our services are built to handle the ups and downs of carrier capacity. From tight markets to seasonal surges, we help you stay ahead with expert guidance and custom shipping solutions.
With access to a nationwide network of trusted carriers, real-time tracking, and a dedicated team, FreightCenter makes it easy to adapt your strategy, avoid delays, and keep costs in check. Get started today and ship with confidence—no matter the market conditions.
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 Choose FreightCenter for Your Truckload Shipping Needs?
Truckload shipping isn’t one-size-fits-all. It demands strategic planning, real-time market awareness, and a reliable network of carriers. At FreightCenter, we specialize in helping businesses navigate the complexities of truckload capacity—so you always ship smarter, not harder. Whether capacity is tight or flexible, our experts provide customized solutions that keep your freight moving on time and on budget.
With FreightCenter, you gain access to competitive rates, flexible options, and hands-on support from start to finish. Our nationwide carrier network means more choices and better routes, while our advanced tools offer full shipment visibility and tracking. From peak seasons to sudden capacity shifts, we’re here to simplify the process and give your business the edge it needs.
When you choose FreightCenter, you’re not just booking a truck—you’re partnering with a logistics team that knows how to deliver.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
LTL shipping involves combining multiple small shipments from different customers onto one truck, allowing each customer to share the shipment cost. Trust the experts at FreightCenter to give you the best prices and the most comprehensive options for all your LTL freight shipping needs.
Truckload shipping, also known as full truckload (FTL), is a transportation option for freight that requires the entire trucks trailer space. Unlike LTL shipping, FTL shipping is reserved for larger commodities that exceed LTL weight and size limits, typically weighing more than 20,000 pounds or having dimensions that exceed 12 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet in height. We deliver optimized solutions for full or partial truckloads and competitive dry van, flatbed, and refrigerated freight pricing. We can cover your full truckload shipping needs.
Nationwide Expedited Trucking services move your freight securely and rapidly. Your freight requires fast delivery; our freight shipping experts can get your shipment fast, whether in one large box or a full truckload.
Specialized is a transportation option for items that require specialized handling, equipment, or shipping conditions. Specialized shipments may include high-value cargo, oversized cargo, or cargo that require temperature-controlled transportation. The most reliable Specialized Freight Services rates from all the top carriers are just a few steps away. From white glove service to international shipping, we've got you covered.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Finding Truckload Capacity and the Right Equipment with a 3PL
Working with a third-party logistics provider (3PL), such as FreightCenter, provides you with the expertise and guidance you need for full truckload shipping. Our dedicated truckload team stays current on the latest trends in truckload capacity, equipment, services, and more. Our team can help you find the right equipment even during peak shipping seasons, so your cargo is always on the move to your customers. See how much you can save, and let our truckload experts help you with your next shipment if you are having trouble understanding truckload capacity.
Truckload Capacity FAQ's
Q. What is truckload capacity in freight shipping?
Truckload capacity refers to the maximum volume or weight a truck can carry safely and legally. It includes both Full Truckload (FTL) and Partial Truckload options, depending on the size and freight class of your shipment.
Q. How do I calculate truckload capacity for my shipment?
To calculate capacity, you’ll need to know your freight’s weight, dimensions, and pallet count. FreightCenter’s shipping experts can guide you through this process and help you find the best truckload solution.
Q. What’s the difference between volume and weight capacity?
Volume capacity refers to how much space your freight occupies in a trailer, while weight capacity is about how heavy the shipment is. Reaching either limit can determine your truckload type and cost.
Q. How does seasonality affect capacity?
Busy seasons like produce and holidays increase demand, tightening capacity.
Q. How many pallets fit in a full truckload?
A standard 53-foot dry van can typically hold up to 26 standard 48″x40″ pallets, assuming the freight is uniform, stackable, and within weight limits. For non-stackable items, fewer pallets will fit.
Q. What regions have the tightest capacity?
Rural or low-outbound areas with limited return freight.
Q. Does equipment availability affect capacity?
Yes, especially if you need specialized trailers like reefers or flatbeds.
Q. Is there a weight limit for truckload shipping?
Yes, the federal gross vehicle weight limit is typically 80,000 lbs, including the truck, trailer, and cargo. Your shipment should not exceed this when choosing FTL freight services.
Q. Can I still book a truck during peak season?
Yes, but expect higher rates and plan early.
Q. What’s the difference between truckload and LTL capacity?
Truckload requires a full trailer, while LTL combines multiple shipments.
Q. How do I know if truckload is available in my area?
Use a 3PL or shipping platform to check real-time availability.
Q. What’s a backhaul and why does it matter?
It’s a return trip with freight—finding one can lower your rate.
Q. What is cube-out vs. weigh-out in freight shipping?
“Cube-out” occurs when your shipment utilizes all available space before reaching its weight limit. “Weigh-out” is the opposite—when your freight hits the maximum legal weight before filling the trailer.
Q. Does FreightCenter offer truckload capacity consulting?
Yes! Our logistics experts evaluate your shipment’s size and needs to help you optimize truckload space, reduce waste, and make data-backed shipping decisions.
Q. How can FreightCenter help me with truckload capacity planning?
We provide access to nationwide carriers, real-time freight quotes, and a team of freight specialists to ensure your load fits within legal, safe, and cost-effective truckload capacity limits.
Drivers avoid “dead zones.”
Some regions are skipped because return loads are rare, tightening capacity there.
Flatbeds go fast in spring.
Construction season eats up flatbed availability—book early if you need one.
Weekend bookings cost more.
Fewer carriers run on weekends, so rates spike and availability drops.
