What is partial truckload shipping? Complete 2025 guide

You have a mid-sized shipment that’s too heavy for standard LTL but doesn’t fill an entire truck. Sound familiar?

You’re dealing with the freight “middle ground” that trips up many businesses. Standard shipping options either cost too much or take too long, leaving you stuck between expensive full truckload rates and slow, damage-prone LTL service.

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping solves this exact problem. It’s designed for mid-sized shipments, offering faster transit than LTL with less handling and no complex freight class requirements.

What you’ll learn

Partial truckload definition and overview

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping is a freight transportation method designed for shipments that fall between less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload options, typically handling cargo weighing over 5,000 pounds or occupying 6+ pallets on a single truck.

Partial truckload shipping is a specialized freight service that transports mid-sized shipments using dedicated truck space without requiring a full trailer. This PTL shipping method typically handles cargo weighing between 5,000-30,000 pounds or occupying 6-18 pallets, filling roughly 12-28 feet of a standard trailer. Unlike LTL freight that moves through multiple terminals, partial truckload shipments stay on one truck from pickup to delivery, reducing handling and transit time.

The key advantage of PTL freight lies in its positioning between traditional shipping methods. While LTL freight works well for smaller shipments under 5,000 pounds, and full truckload serves shipments requiring entire trailers, partial truckload fills the crucial middle ground. This freight shipping option eliminates the need for freight class determinations that complicate LTL pricing, making it simpler for shippers to calculate costs and avoid unexpected charges.

Weight and size parameters define partial truckload eligibility. PTL shipments typically range from 5,000 to 30,000 pounds, though some carriers accept loads up to 40,000 pounds depending on available truck capacity. From a space perspective, partial truckload shipments usually occupy 6-18 pallets or 12-28 linear feet of trailer space. These thresholds ensure efficient use of truck capacity while maintaining the service benefits that distinguish PTL from LTL alternatives.

How partial truckload works

Partial truckload (PTL) operates differently from traditional LTL freight through a simplified, direct transportation process that reduces handling and speeds delivery times.

The single truck transport concept forms the foundation of partial truckload service. According to industry data, “PTL shipments stay on one truck from pickup to delivery without a hub-and-spoke system”⁴, eliminating the multiple transfers common in LTL freight networks. This direct approach reduces the risk of damage and delays while providing more predictable transit times for your freight.

Pickup and consolidation in partial truckload follows specific operational parameters. Carriers typically handle shipments ranging from “6,000-30,000 pounds or 6-18 pallets, occupying 12-28 feet of trailer space”⁴. The carrier coordinates pickup scheduling to optimize truck utilization, often pairing no more than two PTL shipments per truck⁵. This limited consolidation maintains the service quality benefits while maximizing equipment efficiency.

The delivery advantages of partial truckload become evident through reduced handling compared to LTL freight systems. Since PTL shipments remain on one truck throughout transport, there’s significantly less handling than traditional LTL networks that move freight through multiple terminals. This one-truck approach minimizes touchpoints where damage or delays typically occur, providing a more reliable freight shipping experience for businesses with mid-sized shipments.

Partial truckload vs LTL vs full truckload

Understanding the differences between PTL, LTL, and full truckload shipping methods helps you select the most cost-effective and efficient option for your specific freight needs.

The cost comparison reveals significant variations between shipping methods. Research shows “Partial truckloads can have lower cost per unit than volume LTL shipments”¹, making PTL attractive for mid-sized loads. However, “PTL is more expensive than LTL but cost-effective when you don’t have a full truck load worth of goods”². Current market data indicates “Current 2024 trucking rates average $2.76 per mile for van freight”³, providing a baseline for comparing transportation costs across all freight shipping options.

Transit time differences significantly impact delivery planning and customer satisfaction. According to industry analysis, “PTL transit times are typically 2-3 days to cover vs LTL and full truckload that can be covered same day or next day”¹. While partial truckload may take longer than full truckload for some routes, it consistently outperforms LTL freight in reliability and handling. The streamlined process of PTL reduces the variability common in LTL shipping networks.

Decision framework considerations extend beyond simple weight calculations. Volume LTL might work for lighter shipments that occupy significant trailer space, while partial truckload excels when both weight and space requirements fall within PTL parameters. Full truckload becomes necessary when PTL shipments approach maximum trailer capacity or when delivery timing is critical for freight shipping operations.

Benefits of partial truckload shipping

Partial truckload (PTL) shipping offers unique advantages that make it particularly valuable for mid-sized shipments where traditional freight options fall short.

Reduced handling and damage risk represent the primary benefits of partial truckload service. Industry research reveals concerning LTL statistics: “86% of LTL shippers experienced damage claims in 2022, with LTL carriers covering only 66% of those damage claims”⁶. Furthermore, “LTL shippers paid an average of $1,988 for each damaged and late LTL shipment”⁶. In contrast, PTL shipments experience fewer touchpoints and handling events, significantly reducing damage exposure for your freight.

Cost efficiency analysis shows that partial truckload provides competitive pricing for specific shipment profiles. The direct routing and reduced handling translate to cost advantages over volume LTL for many mid-sized freight loads. PTL freight avoids the complex terminal networks that drive up LTL costs while providing more predictable pricing than full truckload for smaller volumes.

No freight class requirements eliminate a significant complexity factor in freight shipping. According to carrier policies, “PTL freight doesn’t require freight classification like LTL, eliminating risk of reclassification charges”⁸. This simplification removes the guesswork and potential disputes over freight class assignments that frequently complicate LTL shipments, making partial truckload more predictable for shipping cost management.

The benefits of partial truckload extend beyond immediate cost savings to include improved supply chain reliability and customer satisfaction through faster, more predictable delivery performance.

When to choose partial truckload shipping

Identifying the right scenarios for PTL freight shipping ensures you maximize cost savings and service quality for your freight transportation needs.

Ideal shipment characteristics define when PTL delivers optimal value. The weight sweet spot typically ranges from 5,000-25,000 pounds, though carriers may accept loads up to 30,000 pounds based on capacity. Industry data shows “21% of U.S. truckload freight capacity is going to waste within partially empty trucks”⁶, highlighting opportunities for shippers to access unused space through partial truckload services. Your shipment should occupy 6-18 pallets or 12-28 feet of trailer space to qualify for most PTL programs.

Industry applications vary widely but share common characteristics that make partial truckload attractive. Manufacturing companies shipping equipment, retailers moving seasonal inventory, and distributors handling regional restocks frequently benefit from PTL services. The freight moves efficiently without the delays common in LTL networks while avoiding the high costs of dedicating entire trucks to smaller loads.

Seasonal and geographic considerations influence when to choose PTL freight shipping. During peak seasons when LTL networks become congested, PTL offers more reliable transit times. Geographic factors such as lane density and carrier availability also impact PTL viability. Routes with consistent freight flow often provide better partial truckload options and competitive pricing compared to less-traveled shipping lanes.

Consider partial truckload when you need predictable transit times, want to minimize handling, or fall within the optimal weight and space parameters. This shipping method bridges the gap between LTL limitations and full truckload requirements.

Partial truckload pricing and costs

Understanding PTL pricing structure helps you budget accurately and identify cost optimization opportunities for your freight shipping needs.

Pricing factors in partial truckload involve multiple variables that carriers consider when quoting rates. Distance remains the primary factor, with longer lanes typically commanding higher per-mile rates for freight transportation. Weight and space utilization calculations determine how efficiently your shipment uses available truck capacity, directly impacting the final price. Carriers balance these factors to ensure profitable operations while providing competitive partial truckload rates.

Cost calculation methods in PTL differ from both LTL and full truckload approaches. Rather than freight class-based pricing, carriers typically quote PTL shipments on a per-shipment or per-mile basis. This simplified approach eliminates the reclassification risks common in LTL freight while providing more predictable costs. Carrier rate structures may include base transportation charges plus accessorial fees for special services like liftgate delivery or inside pickup.

Cost optimization strategies can significantly reduce your partial truckload expenses. Consolidating multiple shipments to the same destination maximizes truck utilization and often qualifies for volume discounts. Flexible pickup and delivery scheduling allows carriers to optimize routes, potentially reducing costs. Working with carriers during off-peak periods or in balanced freight lanes can yield cost savings opportunities compared to high-demand shipping periods.

Common challenges and solutions

While PTL offers significant advantages, understanding potential challenges and their solutions helps ensure successful implementation of partial truckload services.

Capacity limitations during peak shipping seasons can restrict PTL availability. Carriers prioritize full truckload customers during high-demand periods, potentially limiting partial truckload options. The solution involves advance booking and relationship building with multiple carriers to ensure freight capacity when needed. Planning shipments during off-peak periods provides better availability and often lower rates for PTL services.

Scheduling and flexibility challenges arise when carriers need to coordinate multiple PTL shipments on single trucks. Unlike full truckload, where you control the entire truck, PTL requires coordination with other shippers’ schedules. Effective communication with your carrier about pickup and delivery windows helps optimize scheduling. Providing flexibility in timing when possible improves service reliability and may reduce freight costs.

Load matching difficulties occur when carriers struggle to find complementary shipments for the same truck and route. This challenge particularly affects less common shipping lanes or unusual timing requirements. Working with established PTL carriers who have strong networks and load-matching capabilities helps mitigate these issues. Building relationships with multiple carriers provides backup options when load matching becomes problematic.

Despite these challenges, PTL remains a valuable freight shipping option when properly managed through strategic planning and carrier partnerships.

Frequently asked questions

Citations

1. BAM Freight. “Saving Money with Partial Truckloads.” BAM Freight, 2024. https://bamfreight.com/how-can-i-save-money-with-partial-truckload-shipments/

2. Tata Nexarc. “Partial truckload (PTL) – Pricing, challenges, opportunities.” Tata Nexarc Blog, 2025. https://blog.tatanexarc.com/logistics/partial-truck-load-pricing/

3. Method CRM. “Freight rates: Trucking rates per mile 2024.” Method CRM, 2024. https://www.method.me/pricing-guides/trucking-rates-per-mile/

4. DTS. “Partial Truckload Shipping.” DTS, 2025. https://www.dtsone.com/shipping-services/ptl-shipping/

5. Sunset Pacific Transportation. “Partial Truckload Guide.” Sunset Pacific, 2023. https://sunsetpacific.com/partial-truckload-guide/

6. Flock Freight. “New Freight Market Study: Wasted Space and Damaged Freight.” Flock Freight, 2024. https://www.flockfreight.com/company/press-releases/freight-market-study-wasted-space-damaged-freight-overshadowed-favorable-conditions-for-businesses-in-2022

7. Badger Logistics. “The Definitive Guide to Partial Truckload Shipping.” Badger Logistics, 2025. https://www.badgerlogistics.com/blog/definitive-guide-to-partial-truckload-shipping

8. Freightquote. “What Is Partial Truckload Shipping?” Freightquote, 2025. https://www.freightquote.com/define/what-is-partial-truckload-shipping/