At On Track Freight Systems, we are the leading provider of full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping solutions for businesses throughout the New York and New Jersey areas. Because of our strategically situated terminals, we are able to offer fast, next-day FTL and less-than-truckload deliveries throughout the metro area.
And our footprint and coverage area is quickly growing. We now offer overnight, next-day FTL and LTL deliveries for Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. In addition, we offer second-day delivery for Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
Simply put, we are the leading FTL and LTL carrier in the Northeast. As such, we regularly field several frequently asked questions about FTL. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top FTL FAQs and the correlating answers.
What Is Full Truckload Shipping?
As the name suggests, full-truckload is when you have enough freight to occupy the entire volume of the truck trailer. You can also use full truckload shipping when your freight occupies less than the full trailer. Some customers utilize FTL when their freight requires exclusive use of the trailer. Compared to less than truckload (LTL), full truckload shipping offers a number of benefits:
- Can be more cost-efficient for large shipments
- The reduced handling can lower the likelihood of damages and theft
- Shipping freight FTL can be exceptionally faster than other methods.
In either case, it’s important to choose the right shipping option based on your freight and business needs.
When Should I Use Full-Truckload Shipping for My Freight?
While there are several instances when FTL shipping would be appropriate, most situations will fit into one or more than one of the following criteria:
- Anytime you have enough cargo or freight to fill the entire truck or trailer
- When you have sensitive freight and prefer it travels alone
- If the weight of your freight makes less-than-truckload a less economical option
- If your cargo or freight needs special equipment.
When Should My Business Choose LTL Freight Transportation?
If your shipping needs do not require the entire use of the trailer, opting for LTL cargo transportation offers a host of benefits that can improve your bottom line. Because you only pay for the part of the trailer or truck that your cargo uses, the top benefit of LTL is cost savings.
With LTL, you will share the space and cost of the trailer with other businesses shipping cargo. Instead of paying for the entire trailer, your shipping costs will be based on the total weight, volume, and other factors associated with your goods. Additional benefits of LTL include:
- Reduced environmental impact
- Reduced risk of loss and damage
- Extra servicing options
- Fast, next-day transit times
- Easier tracking
- Lowered warehousing costs
What Is the Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight for Full Truckloads?
Today’s maximum FTL truck weight standards are based on a combination of federal laws and state regulations. Specifically, Federal law establishes limits for maximum gross vehicle weights and axle loads that traverse the Interstate System. And the FTL max weight limits are as follows:
- 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight
- 20,000 pounds on a single axle
- 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle group.
This means the maximum FTL weight can’t exceed 80,000 pounds.
Can I Schedule Next-Day Full Truckload Freight Transportation?
Yes! At On Track Freight Systems, we offer fast next-day FTL shipping throughout the New York and New Jersey metro area. At the same time, we offer fast next-day, overnight freight transportation for Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Maryland.
If your needs extend past this overnight service area, we offer second-day delivery for Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
What Determines the Price of Full Truckload Freight Quote?
Several factors influence the rate you pay for shipping FTL cargo and freight. Some of the top factors are briefly explained below:
- Mileage plays a very important role in determining the total cost, but it’s not straightforward. Longer distances will usually incur higher rates due to obvious fuel charges and driver costs.
- Fuel surcharges are based on diesel fuel’s market price.
- The trucking lane can influence truckload freight rates.
- The overall demand for trucking services and truck availability will always be a factor in FTL freight rates.
- The attractiveness of the load, such as ease of appointment scheduling, ease of access, and availability of backhauls.
- Lead time impacts FTL freight quote
Am I Required to Use the Entire Trailer with Full-Truckload Shipping?
Absolutely not! Although most clients shipping FTL are moving large volumes of cargo and will use the entire trailer, this isn’t always the case. Some clients who need expedited delivery at a specific time or those with sensitive cargo will choose full truckload even if they don’t have the freight to occupy the space.
In either case, the team at On Track Freight Systems will guide you through the process and help you make the best decision for your budget and cargo shipping needs.
Contact On Track Freight Systems for Reliable Full Truck Load Shipping
We get it — choosing the best shipping option for your freight can be confusing and slightly overwhelming. Fortunately, you’re not alone. At On Track Freight Systems, we are the leading FTL and LTL carrier in the area. We offer an array of customizable solutions designed to meet your unique logistics goals while remaining on budget.Contact us today for a customized FTL quote.
