FTL or LTL: which shipment type fits your load
In commercial transport you will often hear the terms FTL and LTL. They are the two basic ways a load travels by truck, and the choice affects cost, delivery time and how your goods are handled.
What FTL means
FTL (Full Truck Load) means the truck carries only your goods and drives directly from pick-up to delivery. No intermediate stops, no transhipment. It is the fastest and safest option for large volumes or sensitive cargo.
What LTL means
LTL (Less than Truck Load) means your goods share the truck with other shippers' loads heading in a similar direction. You pay only for the space you use, which makes it far more economical for a few pallets, but delivery takes slightly longer because of the extra stops.
How we choose
- Volume: above 8 to 10 pallets, FTL usually pays off. For 1 to 6 pallets, LTL.
- Time: if delivery must happen at a set hour, FTL gives a direct run.
- Sensitivity: fragile or high-value goods travel better without transhipment.
- Destination: for regular deliveries within Attica, LTL on scheduled routes keeps costs low.
What we do at Karathanos Trans
We offer both options with our own fleet. For shipments within Attica we consolidate loads with same-day delivery, while for the rest of Greece and the islands via Piraeus we schedule full or partial loads depending on your volume. Send us dimensions, weight and destination on the Contact page and we will suggest the most economical solution.