FTL vs. LTL Explained for Cross-Border Shipping
Which Option Is Best for Your International Trucking Needs?
When it comes to cross-border trucking, choosing the right shipping method can make a big difference in both cost and delivery time. In this post, I’ll explain the key differences between FTL (Full Truckload) and LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping—two common options in international road transport—and help you decide which one best suits your cargo
🚛 What Is FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping?
FTL shipping means that your goods occupy the entire truck. The truck picks up cargo from one shipper and delivers it directly to one consignee—no transfers or consolidations.
✅ Best for:
Large shipments (usually over 10 pallets or >15 CBM)
Fragile or high-value goods that need minimal handling
Urgent shipments that require direct delivery
🔧 Benefits:
Faster transit time
Reduced risk of damage or delays
Greater security for sensitive cargo
At GB Intl Freight Agency, we often recommend FTL for industrial equipment, bulk exports, or time-sensitive e-commerce orders crossing into Southeast Asia or Central Asia.
📦 What Is LTL (Less Than Truckload) Shipping?
LTL shipping allows multiple shippers to share space on the same truck. You only pay for the space your goods occupy—making it more affordable for smaller loads.
✅ Best for:
Shipments under 8 pallets or <10 CBM
Regular but small-volume cross-border deliveries
Budget-conscious logistics strategies
📉 Advantages:
Cost-effective for light/medium loads
Ideal for non-urgent cargo
Great for consolidating weekly orders
We arrange LTL services from China to Vietnam, Thailand, and other ASEAN countries—offering flexible pickup schedules and real-time tracking.
🔍 FTL vs. LTL Comparison Table
| Feature | FTL Shipping | LTL Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo volume | Full truckload | Shared truck space |
| Speed | Faster (direct delivery) | Slower (may stop at hubs) |
| Handling | Minimal handling | Multiple handlings |
| Cost | Higher, but fixed | Lower, based on volume |
| Ideal for | Urgent, fragile, bulk cargo | Small, regular, non-urgent cargo |
🌍 What to Consider When Choosing FTL or LTL?
When helping clients choose the right trucking solution, I always consider the following:
Shipment size & weight
Required delivery date
Cargo sensitivity (e.g. fragile, cold chain)
Budget limitations
Destination country and customs policies
For example, a client exporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals to Bangkok might prefer reefer FTL, while a furniture seller with 3 pallets to Hanoi could benefit from LTL consolidation.
✅ Why Choose GB Intl Freight?
With years of experience handling cross-border road freight, we provide:
Optimized LTL & FTL trucking schedules
Route planning and customs clearance
Flexible pickup and delivery windows
Local support teams across Southeast Asia
Whether you’re shipping full containers or partial loads, we tailor solutions to your business.
📦 Not sure whether FTL or LTL is best for your next shipment?
👉 Get a free quote and recommendation
📲 Or message our team on WhatsApp
