Full Truckload Shipping: How FTL Freight Rates Are Calculated & How to Get Better Quotes

Hey, everyone! This is Jeremy with Easy Logistics Management, and today I’m breaking down full truckload (FTL) shipping—what it is, how truckload rates are calculated, and, most importantly, how to get the best possible full truckload freight rates.

Over the past year and a half, my team has taken over our FTL operations, and we’ve learned some key insights, strategies, and tips that have helped us optimize costs and improve efficiency for our clients.

Let’s dive in! 🚛💨

What Is Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping?

Full truckload (FTL) shipping is when a single shipment fills an entire trailer, maximizing efficiency and lowering per-unit shipping costs. This method allows for transporting large shipments that fill the entire truck trailer or most of its capacity. Here’s what qualifies as an FTL shipment:

✅ Up to 26 standard pallets (40” x 48” x 80” tall, depending on truck type) ✅ Total weight capacity: Up to 45,000 lbs✅ Volume capacity: Approximately 3,800 cubic feet

🚛 Common Equipment Types in FTL Shipping:✔️ Dry Van (Standard Enclosed Truckload) – Most common for general freight ✔️ Flatbed Truckload – Used for oversized shipments (can be strapped or tarped) ✔️ Step Deck / Lowboy – For taller freight that needs to clear highway overpasses ✔️ Refrigerated (Reefer) Truckload – For perishable goods like food, beer, or pharmaceuticals

🚚 FTL Shipping Characteristics:✔️ One truck, one driver, one shipment✔️ Direct delivery (faster transit times, fewer stops)✔️ $100,000 standard insurance coverage (additional available if needed)

💡 FTL vs. LTL Shipping Costs:We ran a study comparing LTL (less-than-truckload) vs. FTL shipping, and FTL shipping was 50-65% cheaper per pallet when fully utilizing the truck’s capacity. This is why consolidating shipments into full truckloads can significantly cut costs!

Choosing the Right Equipment for Full Truckload Shipping

Choosing the right equipment for full truckload shipping is crucial to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of your goods. The type of equipment needed depends on the size, weight, and nature of your freight. Here are some common types of equipment used for full truckload shipping:

• Dry Vans: These are the most common type of trailer used for full truckload shipping. They are suitable for standard palletized cargo and provide protection from the elements.

• Refrigerated Trailers: Designed for temperature-sensitive products, these trailers are equipped with refrigeration units to maintain a consistent temperature during transit.

• Flatbed Trailers: Used for oversized or heavy items that cannot be accommodated by a standard dry van. They are often used for construction equipment, machinery, and other large items.

• Double-Drop Deck Trailers: These trailers have a lower deck height than standard trailers, making them ideal for hauling oversized or heavy items.

• Conestoga Trailers: Featuring a retractable roof, these trailers are used for industrial, medical, and CNC milling machines.

When choosing the right equipment for your full truckload shipment, consider the following factors:

• Size and Weight of Your Freight: Ensure the equipment can handle the dimensions and weight of your cargo.

• Type of Cargo: Determine if your goods are temperature-sensitive, oversized, or require special handling.

• Distance and Route of the Shipment: Consider the length of the journey and any potential obstacles along the way.

• Special Handling or Equipment Needs: Identify any unique requirements your shipment may have.

By selecting the appropriate truckload equipment, you can ensure that your full truckload shipping is both efficient and secure.

How Are Full Truckload Freight Rates Calculated?

FTL freight pricing is based on several key factors, including:

1. Total Weight & Pallet Count

✔️ Standard FTL capacity: 45,000 lbs or 26 pallets
✔️ More weight = higher cost, but lower per-unit cost

2. Type of Freight & Handling Complexity

✔️ Hazardous materials (e.g., lithium batteries, chemicals) = higher rates

✔️ Fragile or unstable cargo (motorcycles, furniture) may need special handling

When dealing with shipping freight, it’s important to understand the differences between less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload shipping. Hazardous materials (e.g., lithium batteries, chemicals) typically incur higher rates due to the complexity and safety requirements involved. Similarly, fragile or unstable cargo such as motorcycles and furniture may require special handling to ensure safe delivery.

3. Equipment Type Required

✔️ Dry Van (cheapest) – Ideal for standard truckload shipments, dry vans are commonly used for transporting non-perishable goods and require proper packaging to secure the shipments.

✔️ Reefer / Refrigerated (higher cost due to temperature control) – Essential for truckload shipments of perishable items, these trucks maintain a controlled temperature to ensure the integrity of the goods.

✔️ Flatbed / Step Deck (higher cost for oversized loads) – Used for truckload shipments of oversized or irregularly shaped items, flatbeds and step decks provide the necessary space and flexibility for such loads.

4. Insurance Coverage

✔️ Standard $100,000 coverage included
✔️ Additional insurance: $0.25-$0.30 per $100 of extra coverage

5. Accessorial Fees & Special Handling

✔️ Strapping, tarping, or extra securing (e.g., motorcycles, tall items) increases cost
✔️ Expedited shipping (team drivers for nonstop transport) raises prices

6. Distance & Route Popularity

✔️ More miles = higher cost
✔️ Remote pickup/drop-off locations = higher cost (trucks may return empty)

💡 Example: Shipping into a rural or low-demand area costs more because trucks may not have return loads, leading to higher rates for outbound freight.

Supply Chain Considerations for Full Truckload Shipping

Full truckload shipping is a critical component of many supply chains, and there are several considerations to keep in mind when planning and executing a full truckload shipment. Here are some key supply chain considerations:

• Capacity Planning: Ensure that you have enough capacity to meet your shipping needs, especially during peak seasons. This involves forecasting demand and securing the necessary truckload equipment in advance.

• Route Optimization: Plan the most efficient route for your shipment to minimize transit time and reduce costs. Utilize technology and software to find the best paths and avoid delays.

• Carrier Selection: Choose high-quality carriers that can provide reliable and efficient service. Look for carriers with a proven track record and the necessary equipment to handle your specific freight needs.

• Freight Classification: Properly classify your freight to avoid delays and additional costs. Accurate classification ensures that your shipment is handled correctly and complies with regulations.

• Supply Chain Visibility: Track your shipment in real-time to ensure that it is delivered on time and in good condition. Use tracking tools and platforms to monitor the progress of your truckload shipment and address any issues promptly.

By considering these supply chain factors, you can ensure that your full truckload shipment is executed efficiently and effectively. This not only helps in maintaining the integrity of your supply chain but also in achieving competitive pricing and high-quality service for your truckload freight shipping needs.

How to Get the Best Full Truckload Freight Rates

1. Work with a Freight Broker

✔️ Freight brokers (like us!) leverage platforms like DAT Load Board & Truckstop.com to access thousands of independent truckers.
✔️ We negotiate lower rates & provide more carrier options.

💡 Pro Tip: If your shipment is highly regional, building local owner-operator relationships can drastically cut costs. Some independent truckers offer better rates for short-haul, repeat business.

2. Automate Your Truckload Shipping Process

✔️ Use a Transportation Management System (TMS) to manage FTL quotes, bookings, and tracking.
✔️ Platforms like DAT Truckload & Truckstop.com allow you to find the best rates in real time.
✔️ We can integrate API automation into your freight management system for instant truckload quotes & booking.

3. Consider Shared Truckload & Partial Consolidation

✔️ If you don’t have a full truckload, co-load your freight with another business.
✔️ Shared truckload shipping can save 50-65% per pallet compared to LTL shipping.
✔️ We can match your shipments with other compatible freight for maximum savings.

💡 Example: If your business only needs half a truckload, we can combine your shipment with another company shipping to the same region, reducing costs for both.

4. Optimize Load Configuration & Efficiency

✔️ Palletize goods properly to minimize wasted space.
✔️ Reduce dwell time by ensuring fast loading/unloading (avoiding costly delays).
✔️ Plan ahead to avoid peak season rate hikes (e.g., produce season).

5. Leverage Intermodal Rail for Cost Savings

✔️ Intermodal (Rail + Truckload) Shipping can be cheaper than standard FTL if your shipment route aligns with major rail hubs.
✔️ Intermodal works best for long-haul shipments where delivery speed isn’t the priority.

Why Work With Easy Logistics for Full Truckload Freight?

🔹 Industry-Leading Freight Brokerage – We tap into thousands of carriers via DAT Load Board & Truckstop.com to secure lower rates and better service. Our supply chain experts leverage industry and market knowledge to address intricate truckload challenges, enhancing shipment efficiency and streamlining processes. 🔹 Full-Service Truckload Management – Dry van, reefer, flatbed, intermodal, and shared truckload options. 🔹 Freight Automation** & API Integrations** – Get instant quotes and real-time tracking. 🔹 Transparent Pricing & Expert Support – We negotiate the best FTL rates and provide personalized logistics consulting.

📞 Let’s Get You Better FTL Freight Quotes Today!

✔️ Call us today: 866-854-5341 x3 ✔️ Email us:jeremy@easylogisticsmanagement.com✔️ Get a free quote:www.easylogisticsmanagement.com

🚀 Save money, ship smarter, and optimize your truckload freight today!