Shipping freight doesn't always fit neatly into less-than-truckload (LTL) or truckload (TL) categories. Fortunately, for many businesses, there's a flexible alternative worth considering: partial truckload (PTL) — the often-overlooked middle ground.
Whether you're scaling your business, shipping bulky items or simply looking to avoid overpaying for unused trailer space, partial truckload shipping gives you the flexibility and cost-efficiency you need.
But what exactly is it, and when does it make sense to choose it? Below, GlobalTranz, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, answers all of your questions about PTL so you can make the smartest freight shipping decisions and keep your customers happy!
Partial Truckload Shipping — Defined
Partial truckload — also commonly known as PTL — is a freight solution that fits between less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) freight. You're essentially sharing trailer space with one or more shippers, but without the complexities of LTL freight classification and terminal transfers.
What are 5 reasons to choose partial truckload freight?
1. Cost efficiency for medium-sized loads
If you're shipping between 6 to 18 pallets and/or 5,000 to 27,500 pounds, partial truckload rates can be far more economical than paying for unused TL space.
2. Faster transit times
Since PTL freight often goes from point A to point B with minimal stops, it usually arrives faster than LTL shipments which pass through hubs and terminals.
3. Lower risk of damage
Unlike LTL, partial truckload logistics involves less handling. That means your freight is loaded once and stays put once it's loaded — reducing the risk of breakage, loss or mishandling.
4. No freight classification needed
Freight shipping services like LTL require NMFC freight classifications, which can affect pricing. With PTL, you're paying a market rate primarily based on the space your freight requires, with no complex shipping codes.
5. More flexibility and control
You often get more visibility and scheduling control with partial truckload carriers, making it easier to plan pickups and deliveries around your operations.
Real-World Scenarios Where Partial Truckload Makes Sense
Not sure when to choose partial truckload? These real-world examples show how PTL delivers value across industries — from cost savings to speed, flexibility and simplicity.
1. Shipping retail displays to a national chain store
You're launching a new product line and need to send branded displays to retail stores across several states. The shipment includes 12 non-stackable pallets — too much for LTL, not quite enough for a full truck.
Why PTL works:
- You avoid overpaying for empty trailer space
- There's less handling, reducing the risk of damage
- No freight class needed, which simplifies quoting
Key benefit: Cost efficiency and cargo protection
2. Manufacturers with variable shipments
Manufacturers sending regular but variable sized shipments to distribution partners often face logistical challenges as their shipments are too large for LTL but don't fill an entire truck. PTL shipping offers a cost-effective and efficient solution.
Why PTL works:
- Avoid paying for unused space associated with FTL
- Suitable for routine shipments with flexible delivery windows
- Minimized the risk of damage associated with LTL or volume LTL shipping, providing a safer transport option
Key benefit: cost and delivery flexibility
3. Delivering packaging supplies to multiple plants
You're shipping pallets of packaging materials — boxes, tape, bubble wrap — to several regional production facilities.
Why PTL works:
- Your 3PL can consolidate the shipment and coordinate staggered drop-offs
- PTL pricing is based on space, not freight class — ideal for high-volume, low-weight goods
- You maintain delivery flexibility across regions without overspending
Key benefit: Flexibility and multi-stop delivery efficiency
4. Avoiding freight class on lightweight, bulky goods
Your shipment includes 10,000 pounds of foam containers — lightweight but space-consuming. LTL freight classification rules would push the rate up due to the low-density NMFC class.
Why PTL works:
- PTL doesn't require the classification process
- Pricing is based on trailer space and market demand
- You avoid surprises in your freight bill
Key benefit: Pricing simplicity and cost predictability
FAQs — 5 Common Questions About PTL
Partial truckload typically involves larger, more consolidated freight. Unlike LTL, PTL has fewer handling points and doesn't require freight class codes.
Most partial truckload carriers handle 6 to 18 pallets per shipment, depending on size and weight.
Not always. Partial truckload rates can be lower for high-volume shipments since you avoid freight reclassification fees and reduce handling costs.
Palletizing is still recommended, but many partial truckload logistics providers are flexible with load types — especially if the freight is durable or oversized.
Yes! Many 3PLs and carriers offer visibility tools so you can monitor transit and receive updates along the way.
LTL vs. Volume LTL vs. PTL vs. TL At a Glance
| LTL | Volume LTL | PTL | Truckload | |
| Number of pallets |
1 to 10 | More than 6 | 6 to 18 | 1 to 26 |
| Weight | 150 — 15,000 lbs. | More than 5,000 — 10,000 lbs. | 5,000 — 27,500 lbs. | 15,000 — 44,000 lbs. |
| Length | Maximum of 12 linear feet | Longer than 12 linear feet | Maximum length depends on the truck being used | Maximum length depends on the truck being used |
| Transit | Multiple stops | Multiple stops | Direct to drop-off location, with some exceptions | Direct to drop-off location |
| Durability | Better for durable cargo | Better for durable cargo | Less risk of damage | Less risk of damage |
| Pricing | Based on classification code | Based on classification code | Based on market price | Based on market price |
As you can see, partial truckload offers a blend of speed, value and reliability, particularly when your freight volume falls in that "in-between" range.
How a 3PL Can Help With Partial Truckload Shipping
Choosing the right freight mode is just the first step. A 3PL can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here are five ways a 3PL helps you get the most from partial truckload logistics:
1. Mode optimization
A 3PL will analyze your freight profile and recommend the best shipping mode — whether that's partial truckload, LTL or truckload — based on cost, speed and freight characteristics.
2. Carrier access
You gain access to a vast network of partial truckload carriers with strong reputations and reliable performance, not just whoever is available.
3. Technology and tracking
From quoting to tracking to delivery confirmation, 3PL technology platforms simplify the partial truckload shipping process and improve visibility.
4. Rate negotiation
With their buying power and market insight, 3PLs often negotiate better partial truckload rates than shippers can get on their own.
5. Support and risk management
3PLs provide customer service, documentation support and even freight insurance options to protect your cargo. This is especially important for higher-value PTL shipments.
Why Worldwide Express for PTL shipping?
At Worldwide Express, we help shippers like you make smarter, faster decisions across all modes of freight, and partial truckload is no exception.
Whether you're moving peak season inventory, shipping oversized goods or optimizing your supply chain across regions, our team is ready to help you:
- Understand the use cases for partial truckload freight
- Compare partial truckload rates and options
- Connect with dependable partial truckload carriers
- Improve transit times and reduce damage risk
- Leverage tools and expertise that simplify your entire process
What GlobalTranz Can Offer as Your 3PL Partner
With over 30 years of experience in the logistics industry, GlobalTranz understands the unique challenges faced by shippers like you. We've built strong relationships with more than 75+ LTL carriers and 45K+ truckload carriers, ensuring that our clients have access to competitive pricing and reliable service.
Our TMS is a game-changer, allowing businesses to manage all their shipping needs — domestic and international — in one easy-to-use platform. With features like real-time tracking, automated alerts and cost comparisons, our TMS is designed to make shipping more efficient and cost-effective.
By partnering with GlobalTranz, you'll get the support of a team of logistics experts who understand your specific needs and challenges. We offer customized solutions to help you scale your shipping operations, improve delivery times and reduce costs. Whether you need 3PL shipping solutions or help navigating the complexities of international freight, we've got you covered.
Ready to talk? Request a complimentary shipping consultation with a GlobalTranz shipping expert today!