When Should I Use PTL Instead of FTL?
Use PTL instead of FTL when your shipment occupies less than 60–65% of a full trailer (under 28–32 linear feet). For smaller loads, PTL is almost always more cost-effective — you only pay for the space you use, not the entire truck.
PTL vs FTL decision guide
Shipment under 28 linear feet (under 60% of trailer)
You only pay for space used — significant savings vs FTL
Shipment 28–36 linear feet (60–75% of trailer)
PTL and FTL are competitive — compare total cost
Shipment over 36 linear feet (75%+ of trailer)
FTL flat rate is more efficient at this size
Extremely time-sensitive (same-day required)
FTL is fastest; GoGedit for local same-day delivery
PTL vs FTL comparison
| Factor | PTL | FTL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (partial load) | Pay for space used | Pay for full truck |
| Speed | 1–4 days (Ontario) | 1–2 days (Ontario) |
| Damage risk | 0.1–0.5% | Under 0.1% |
| Best for | Under 28 linear feet | Over 36 linear feet |
| Flexibility | Medium | Low (full truck commitment) |
Need same-day large-item delivery in Ontario?
GoGedit provides PTL-style same-day delivery for furniture, appliances, and commercial freight.
Frequently asked questions
When should I use PTL instead of FTL?
Use PTL instead of FTL when your shipment occupies less than 60–65% of a full trailer (under 28–32 linear feet). For smaller loads, PTL is almost always more cost-effective than paying for an entire truck.
At what point does FTL become cheaper than PTL?
FTL becomes competitive when your shipment occupies more than 28–32 linear feet (roughly 60–65% of a 48-foot trailer). At that point, the per-linear-foot cost of PTL approaches the flat rate of FTL. Always get quotes for both when your shipment is in this range.
Is PTL as fast as FTL?
PTL is slightly slower than FTL for most Ontario lanes — typically 1 day longer. FTL moves directly from origin to destination with no other shippers. PTL may have 1–2 other shippers' freight but still moves with minimal terminal handling.
Does PTL have higher damage risk than FTL?
PTL has slightly higher damage risk than FTL, but dramatically lower than LTL. PTL damage rate: 0.1–0.5%. FTL damage rate: under 0.1%. For most freight types, PTL's damage risk is acceptable and the cost savings justify the choice.
Can I use PTL for time-sensitive shipments?
Yes, for most Ontario lanes. PTL transit times are typically 1–4 business days — only 1 day longer than FTL for most routes. If your shipment is extremely time-sensitive (same-day or next-day required), FTL or GoGedit's same-day delivery service is the better choice.