What is Partial Truckload (PTL)?
Partial Truckload (PTL) is a freight mode that sits between Less Than Truckload (LTL) and Full Truckload (FTL) shipments. PTL is used for large shipments that are not substantial enough to require a full truckload trailer but exceed the capacity or size limits of LTL freight shipping.. Typically, PTL shipments weigh over 5,000 pounds or include 6 or more pallets or skids.
Advantages of choosing PTL:
Faster Transit Times
Key advantages of PTL shipping is that it allows the freight to stay on one truck for the duration of transit, has less or no loading and unloading, and there is less time spent at distribution points and more time on the road. Resulting in faster transit times compared to LTL freight shipping.
Reduced Claims Risk
Partial truckload carriers make few or no stops compared to LTL, and PTL shipments usually stay on the same truck throughout the entire trip. Minimizing freight handling reduces the chances of damage to the freight during loading and unloading, making it suitable for shipments that are fragile or prone to damage.
Cost-Effective
Unlike LTL freight shipping, PTL shipments do not require a freight class to secure a rate, which helps shippers avoid additional charges associated with freight re-classification. Shippers pay for the space and weight capacity they utilize in PTL, allowing for potential cost savings compared to other shipping methods. For example, shippers who have low-density freight that takes up a lot of space but is not large enough to fill a full truckload.
What is the difference between partial truckload (PTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) freight?
Shipment Size
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL): Fills a truck with different shipments from different companies that are headed to the same destination or hub. At the hub, the cargo may be handed off to another trucker.
Partial Truckload (PTL): PTL shipping is a hybrid between LTL and a full truckload (FTL). It is used for freight that weighs between 5,000 and 38,000 pounds and is packaged on between 6 and 20 pallets or skids. PTL shipments typically have a straight shot from the origin to the destination, with fewer stops at hubs or terminals compared to LTL freight shipping.
Freight Class and Rates
LTL shipments require freight class designations, whereas partial shipments do not.
LTL rate quotes come from published carrier rates, while partial truckload prices are market-driven.
Packaging
LTL shipments must be crated on pallets, whereas partial truckloads do not have this requirement.
Insurance
Partial truckload carriers are required to offer freight insurance, which can be more expensive than the freight liability required by LTL shipments.
What about refrigerated PTL?
Navigating the world of refrigerated Partial Truckload (PTL) shipping requires understanding a few essential points. While Frozen PTL is commonly seen as a better fit due to the commodity’s ability to withstand varying temperatures, rest assured that any temperature requirement can be handled given the right circumstances.
It’s crucial to be aware of how your product handles temperature fluctuations, as not all commodities suit this transport mode. In general, the more resistant your product is to temperature changes, the better it fits refrigerated PTL.
In summary, Partial Truckload (PTL) is a freight mode suitable for large shipments that fall between LTL and FTL. It offers benefits such as reduced handling, faster transit times, and cost savings based on space and weight capacity utilization. By understanding the characteristics and advantages of PTL, shippers can make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate shipping method for their specific needs.
Remember, these differences and benefits can help you make an informed decision based on your specific shipping requirements and goals. Contact RWI Logistics for assistance on selecting the option that meets your business needs. Ask us how we can use our Business Intelligence to optimize your supply chain!
