What Is Partial Truckload Shipping? Complete Guide for Mid‑Size Freight
Partial truckload (PTL) shipping is the ideal option for mid‑size freight that’s too large for standard LTL but doesn’t need the cost of a dedicated full truckload. Think 6–18 linear feet, 5–14 pallets, or 8,000–28,000 lb (ranges vary by carrier). PTL typically moves point‑to‑point with fewer touchpoints, faster transit, and less handling risk than LTL—often at a lower cost than booking a full truck.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what PTL is, when to use it instead of LTL or FTL, how rates are calculated, and what kinds of freight are best suited for PTL.
Key Takeaways
- PTL fills the gap between LTL and FTL for mid‑volume freight.
- It often skips terminals and cross‑docks, reducing damage and claims.
- Use PTL when you have 6–18 linear feet or 5–14 pallets (varies).
- PTL may not require freight class—great for odd‑shaped or dense freight.
- Short‑haul PTL can be cheaper and faster than LTL for 6+ pallets.
Need help deciding if your shipment qualifies for PTL?
Get a Partial Truckload Quote
What Is Partial Truckload (PTL) Shipping?
PTL shipping is a mode where your freight occupies a portion of a trailer, and the carrier routes it with minimal stops (often two to four) compared to LTL networks that rely on multiple terminals. You pay only for the space you use, not a full 53’ trailer.
Typical PTL characteristics:
- Space: ~6–18 linear feet (varies by carrier)
- Weight: ~8,000–28,000 lb
- Pallets: often 6–14 pallets (standard 48” x 40”)
- Handling: limited touchpoints; usually no cross‑docking
- Pricing: based on linear feet, weight, and lane—not just class
PTL is sometimes called volume LTL, shared truckload, or co‑loading, though each has nuances (covered below).
PTL vs. LTL vs. Full Truckload (Quick Comparison)
| Mode | Best For | Typical Size | Handling | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LTL | Small shipments | 1–5 pallets | Multiple terminals | Cheapest for small freight; high coverage | More handling; reclass/fees; slower |
| PTL | Mid‑size freight | 6–14 pallets, 6–18 LF | Few touchpoints | Lower damage risk; faster; class‑flexible | Capacity varies; requires planning |
| FTL | Full trailers / fragile | Fills trailer or needs dedicated | No touchpoints |
When to Use Partial Truckload
Choose PTL when your freight:
- Exceeds standard LTL dimensions or weight but doesn’t fill a trailer
- Is dense, odd‑shaped, or crated machinery that’s sensitive to handling
- Needs fewer touchpoints than LTL (reduced claim risk)
- Involves 6+ pallets on short‑to‑mid distance lanes (often cheaper than LTL)
- Has time‑sensitive delivery but doesn’t justify a full truckload
Great candidates: machinery, auto parts (engines/transmissions), building materials, packaging supplies, palletized equipment, fitness equipment, furniture sets.
How Partial Truckload Pricing Works
PTL carriers typically price based on a mix of linear feet + weight + lane demand, rather than strictly on NMFC class. That’s a major advantage when your shipment would otherwise rate at a high LTL class.
Common rate factors:
- Linear feet used (and whether stacking is possible)
- Weight and center of gravity (for safe loading)
- Origin–destination lane (supply/demand, backhaul opportunities)
- Accessorials (appointments, residential, limited access)
- Seasonality (construction, retail, agriculture, storm season)
Pro tip: If your LTL quote shows oversize, cubic minimum, or density reclass risk, ask for a PTL comparison.
Does PTL Require Freight Class?
PTL vs. Volume LTL vs. Shared Truckload
- Partial Truckload (PTL): Space/weight‑based pricing, fewer touchpoints, minimal terminals.
- Volume LTL: Priced within an LTL network but flagged as “volume” due to size; may still cross‑dock.
- Shared Truckload / Co‑loading: Multiple shippers share a truckload with an optimized multi‑stop route; efficient but requires precise planning.
Which to choose?
- Want fewer touches and faster transit? → PTL
- Need LTL pickup flexibility and don’t mind terminals? → Volume LTL
- Have flexible pickup windows and want the lowest cost per mile? → Shared TL
How Many Pallets Qualify as Partial Truckload?
Rules vary, but a practical guideline is:
- 6–14 pallets (standard 48” x 40”)
- 6–18 linear feet of trailer space (stackable freight can qualify with fewer LF)
- 8,000–28,000 lb, provided the load is safe to co‑load or multi‑stop
Short‑haul tip: For regional lanes, 6+ pallets can be cheaper and faster as PTL or dedicated short‑haul TL than as LTL.
Advantages of Partial Truckload
- Reduced handling → lower damage and claims
- Faster transit than multi‑terminal LTL
- Predictable pickups/deliveries (fewer surprises)
- Better value than FTL when you don’t need a full trailer
- Class‑flexible pricing for dense or irregular freight
Common Freight That Fits PTL
- Machinery & equipment (crated, banded, or palletized)
- Auto parts (engines, transmissions, body panels)
- Building materials (lumber, steel, coils)
- Packaging & paper (dense, palletized loads)
- Furniture sets & store fixtures
- Fitness equipment & retail rollouts
How Our PTL Process Works (Simple Steps)
- Request a PTL Quote
Send weight, dims, pallet count, stackability, pickup zip, delivery zip, and any accessorials.
- Mode Comparison
We compare PTL vs. LTL vs. truckload to find the best mix of cost, speed, and risk.
- Carrier Match
We select a carrier with strong lane performance and equipment availability.
- Pickup & Transit
Minimal touchpoints; often direct or limited‑stop routing.
- Delivery & POD
We provide tracking, updates, and proof of delivery
FAQs: Partial Truckload (PTL)
Q: Is PTL cheaper than LTL?
A: Often, yes—especially for 6+ pallets, irregular freight, or lanes where LTL would charge cubic minimums or oversize fees.
Q: How fast is PTL?
A: Usually faster than LTL because it skips multiple terminals; close to truckload transit on many lanes.
Q: Do I need a freight class?
A: Not always. Many PTL quotes are space/weight‑based. We’ll advise if a class helps or is required by a specific carrier.
Q: What if my freight is fragile?
A: PTL reduces touchpoints. For highly sensitive freight, consider dedicated TL.