The Difference Between LTL and FTL Shipping

When your business depends on reliable freight services, understanding the difference between LTL (Less Than Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is crucial. Choosing the right method can save you time, cut costs, and improve your supply chain performance.

At RS Express, we specialize in both LTL and FTL freight solutions across Winnipeg and parts of Rural Manitoba—offering businesses smart, efficient shipping tailored to their exact needs.

Let’s break down the difference—and help you decide what works best for your business.

What Is FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping?

FTL shipping means your freight occupies the entire truck. The vehicle is dedicated to a single shipment and goes straight from pickup to delivery without additional stops.

Ideal for:

  • Large shipments (usually over 10 pallets or 15,000 lbs)
  • High-value or fragile goods
  • Time-sensitive deliveries
  • Businesses with full truckload volume

Benefits of FTL:

  • Faster delivery (no stops)
  • Lower risk of damage or handling
  • Direct and secure transportation
  • Consistent schedules

At RS Express, our FTL services offer direct routing, GPS-tracked trucks, and flexible scheduling to keep your freight moving on your terms.

What Is LTL (Less Than Truckload) Shipping?

LTL shipping combines freight from multiple businesses into one truck. You only pay for the space you use, making it cost-effective for smaller shipments.

Ideal for:

  • Small to medium shipments (1–6 pallets or under 10,000 lbs)
  • Regular but not large-scale shipping
  • Companies looking to save on freight costs
  • Rush deliveries to keep your customers supplied

Benefits of LTL:

  • Just In Time option for your customer
  • Reduced shipping costs
  • Environmentally friendly (fewer trucks on the road)
  • Ideal for frequent, smaller loads
  • Flexible options for growing businesses

At RS Express, we consolidate freight smartly—keeping transit times short and costs competitive. Plus, our LTL services include real-time tracking, regional expertise, and reliable delivery windows.

LTL vs. FTL: Quick Comparison

Feature

LTL Shipping

FTL Shipping

Shipment Size

Small to Medium

Large or Full Load

Cost

Shared (lower)

Flat Rate (higher, per truck)

Delivery Time

Longer (multiple stops)

Faster (direct)

Handling Risk

Slightly Higher

Minimal

Ideal For

Small businesses, multiple customers

Bulk freight, high-value goods

Which One Do You Need?

Choose LTL if you:

  • Ship in smaller volumes
  • Want to reduce shipping costs
  • Have flexible delivery windows
  • Have a rush delivery needing a direct drive to your customer

Choose FTL if you:

  • Have a full truckload of freight
  • Need express or direct delivery
  • Handle sensitive or high-value items

Still unsure? That’s where RS Express comes in.

Why Choose RS Express for Your Freight?

We’re not just another carrier—we’re your logistics partner. With customized LTL and FTL solutions, advanced tracking, and expert coordination, RS Express delivers more than just freight—we deliver peace of mind.

  • Serving Winnipeg and Rural Manitoba
  • Reliable fleet for dry and temperature-sensitive goods
  • Transparent pricing and responsive service

Let’s Move Smarter—Together

Whether you’re growing your local business or managing complex supply chains, RS Express is ready to help you ship smarter.

Get in touch or request a quote today.

Our Commitment to ‘Delivering on your promises’

 

We believe that logistics is more than just moving goods—it’s about building trust and supporting our customers to ‘Deliver on your promises’. Our commitment is reflected in:
Transparent Communication

  • Real-Time Tracking Solutions
  • Safety-First Protocols
  • Customer-Centric Problem Solving

We don’t just offer transportation and warehousing solutions —we strive to offer peace of mind knowing your inventory and goods are safe with us.