Is PTL Cheaper Than LTL?
Yes — for shipments over 5,000 lbs, PTL is typically 25–50% cheaper than LTL when you factor in the full cost including accessorials and damage claims. For shipments under 2,000 lbs, LTL is usually cheaper. The break-even point is around 5,000 lbs or 6 linear feet.
PTL vs LTL cost by shipment size
| Shipment Size | LTL Cost | PTL Cost | Cheaper Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 2,000 lbs | $100–$400 | N/A | LTL |
| 2,000–5,000 lbs | $400–$1,000 | $350–$700 | Comparable |
| 5,000–10,000 lbs | $900–$2,500 | $400–$900 | PTL saves 40–55% |
| 10,000–20,000 lbs | $1,800–$5,000 | $700–$1,500 | PTL saves 50–65% |
Why PTL beats LTL on total cost
Lower base rate
Per-linear-foot pricing is more efficient than LTL's class system for large loads
Fewer accessorials
PTL has fewer terminal handling charges and accessorial fees
Lower damage rate
PTL damage rate (0.1–0.5%) is 5–10x lower than LTL (1–3%)
Simpler pricing
No freight class disputes or reclassification charges
Ship large items affordably in Ontario
GoGedit offers PTL-style delivery for furniture, appliances, and commercial freight — flat-rate pricing, no hidden fees.
Frequently asked questions
Is PTL cheaper than LTL?
Yes — for shipments over 5,000 lbs, PTL is typically 25–50% cheaper than LTL when you factor in the full cost including accessorials and damage claims. For shipments under 2,000 lbs, LTL is usually cheaper.
At what shipment size does PTL become cheaper than LTL?
PTL typically becomes cheaper than LTL at around 5,000 lbs or 6 linear feet of trailer space. Below this threshold, LTL is usually more cost-effective. Above it, PTL wins on total cost.
Why is PTL cheaper than LTL for large shipments?
PTL is cheaper for large shipments because: (1) per-linear-foot pricing is more efficient than LTL's complex class system for large loads, (2) fewer accessorial charges, (3) lower damage rates mean fewer damage claims, and (4) simpler pricing with fewer hidden fees.
Does PTL have lower damage rates than LTL?
Yes. PTL has significantly lower damage rates than LTL. LTL freight is handled 3–6 times at terminals, resulting in a 1–3% damage rate. PTL freight is handled 1–2 times, resulting in a 0.1–0.5% damage rate — 5–10x lower.
When is LTL cheaper than PTL?
LTL is cheaper than PTL for shipments under 2,000 lbs, or when your freight is small, palletised, and durable enough to withstand multiple handling points. For very small shipments, LTL's shared cost model is more efficient.