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How Many Pounds for LTL? When to Use LTL vs Parcel vs Truckload

May 06, 2026 · ShipOnlines
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When Does LTL Make Sense?

LTL (Less Than Truckload) is for shipments too large for parcel carriers but not enough to fill a full truck. Typically 1-6 pallets, a few hundred to several thousand pounds.

Weight Is Not the Only Factor

Two 500-lb shipments can price very differently if one fits on a standard pallet and the other takes three oversized pallets. Freight class, dimensions, density, and address type all matter.

LTL vs PTL vs FTL

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