Shared Truckload vs. LTL or FTL: Which Is Right for Your Business?

TL;DR: Choosing the right shipping method is critical to balancing cost, speed, and efficiency. Shared truckload (STL) shipping offers a flexible and cost-effective solution for medium-sized shipments that don’t fit into traditional less-than-truckload (LTL) or full truckload (FTL) models. This guide breaks down when to use shared truckload, the benefits of shared truckload shipping, and helps you determine which is the best fit for your business—especially when considering shared truckload vs. LTL, shared truckload vs. FTL, and LTL vs. FTL trade-offs.

When shipping freight, finding the right balance between cost and efficiency can be a challenge. Full truckload (FTL) is ideal for large shipments but comes at a higher price, while less-than-truckload (LTL) can be cost-effective but may involve multiple stops and longer transit times. Shared truckload (STL) fills the gap by offering a smarter way to ship—allowing businesses to share space on a truck without sacrificing speed or security. Whether you’re looking to optimize your supply chain, reduce costs, or improve delivery times, understanding how STL compares to LTL and FTL can help you make the best decision.

What is Shared Truckload (STL) Shipping?

Shared truckload (STL) shipping is a freight solution that combines shipments from multiple shippers into a single truck traveling along the same route. Unlike LTL, where freight is moved between terminals and cross-docked multiple times, STL loads stay on the same truck from origin to destination, reducing handling and potential damage. It’s also different from FTL, where a single shipment fills an entire truck. Instead, STL maximizes available space, improving efficiency without the high costs of reserving a full truck.

With STL, shipments move faster and more directly than traditional LTL, while still offering cost savings compared to FTL. By optimizing truck capacity, businesses gain more predictable pricing and delivery timelines.

When to Choose Shared Truckload Shipping

Shared truckload services are an ideal option for businesses with freight that doesn’t require a full truck but is too large or specialized for standard LTL shipping. Here are a few scenarios for when to use shared truckload:

• You need faster transit times than LTL offers. Because STL doesn’t require freight transfers between terminals, shipments arrive sooner with fewer delays.
• Your freight is fragile or high-value. With fewer handling points, STL reduces the risk of damage.
• Your shipment is too big for LTL but doesn’t fill an entire truck. STL lets you pay only for the space you need, making it more cost-effective than reserving an entire truck.
• You have regular shipments to the same regions. Businesses that frequently ship to the same destinations can optimize costs with STL.

With STL, businesses can achieve a balance between cost savings and efficiency, making it a strong alternative to traditional options and one of the best business shipping methods.

How to Determine if Shared Truckload Shipping is Right for You

If you’re still deciding, consider these key factors for choosing the most cost-effective shipping method:

• Shipment Size: If your freight takes up 5-21 pallets or up to 35 feet of trailer space, STL is a great option. Smaller shipments are better suited for LTL, while larger loads may justify a full truck.
• Delivery Urgency: If speed matters and you need a direct route without unnecessary stops, shared truckload is more efficient than traditional less-than-truckload services.
• Handling Requirements: If your goods require minimal touchpoints to prevent damage, STL is safer than LTL, which often involves multiple loading and unloading stops.
• Budget Considerations: Shared truckload offers better cost efficiency compared to full truckload when you don’t need an entire truck but want faster, safer delivery than LTL.

Benefits of Choosing Shared Truckload Shipping

Shared truckload shipping provides a unique set of advantages over less-than-truckload and full-truckload options, helping businesses maximize efficiency and minimize costs. Here’s what makes STL a smart choice:

• Lower Costs: STL pricing is based on the space used, allowing businesses to avoid the high cost of FTL while still benefiting from consolidated freight.
• Reduced Risk of Damage: Since STL freight remains on the same truck throughout transit, there’s less risk of damage compared to LTL, where shipments are frequently transferred between trucks.
• Faster Transit Times: With fewer stops and no terminal transfers, STL offers significantly faster delivery compared to LTL shipping.
• Sustainable Shipping: By consolidating freight into fewer trucks, STL reduces empty miles and cuts fuel consumption, contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.
• Flexible Freight Handling: STL accommodates oversized, fragile, or specialized freight, making it an excellent option for shippers with unique cargo requirements.

For companies looking to streamline their logistics without sacrificing reliability or affordability, STL can be a game-changer.

Unlock the Potential of Shared Truckload Shipping for Your Business

Businesses that optimize their freight shipping strategy with shared truckload enjoy increased efficiency, lower costs, and faster deliveries. As logistics demands continue to evolve, STL provides a scalable, flexible shipping solution that supports growing businesses with varying shipment sizes and transit requirements.

If your company is looking to improve its shipping operations, carefully compare the pricing for all available options and consider the shared truckload benefits, such as fast transit time and flexible freight handling.

Get Your Shared Truckload Quote Today!

Ready to experience the benefits of STL shipping? Sunset Pacific Transportation offers competitive shared truckload pricing, reliable transit times, and industry-leading customer support. Get a custom STL quote today and discover how our shared truckload services can optimize your logistics strategy.