Definition
Full truckload (FTL) is a term used in the transportation industry to describe a shipment that occupies the entire space of a truck/semi-trailer truck. In the context of the European Union (EU), FTL refers to a type of road freight transport where a single truck/semi-trailer truck is used to transport goods from one location to another within the EU. This means that the truck is fully loaded with goods from a single shipper and delivered to a single consignee without any intermediate stops.
Features
FTL has the following features:
- Single shipper: FTL involves a single shipper who has enough goods to fill an entire truck/semi-trailer.
- Single consignee: The goods are delivered to a single consignee, which means that the truck does not make any intermediate stops to unload or load goods.
- Full truck cpacity: The truck/semi-trailer is fully loaded with goods, utilizing its maximum capacity.
- Direct delivery: FTL offers direct delivery, which means that the goods are transported directly from the shipper to the consignee without any transshipment or handling at intermediate points.
Advantages
FTL has several advantages over other modes of transportation:
- Efficient: FTL is an efficient mode of transportation as it maximizes the use of truck/trailer space and reduces the time and cost associated with multiple stops.
- Fast delivery: with direct delivery, FTL ensures fast delivery of goods to the consignee.
- Reduced risk of damage: Since the goods are not handled or transshipped at intermediate points, there is a reduced risk of damage to the goods.
- Flexible: FTL allows for flexible scheduling and delivery options, as the entire truck/semi-trailer truck is dedicated to a single shipment.
Uses
FTL is commonly used for the transportation of large quantities of goods, such as bulk shipments, heavy machinery, and perishable goods.
Conclusion
Full truckload (FTL) is a type of road freight transport where a single truck/semi-trailer truck is fully loaded with goods from a single shipper and delivered to a single consignee without any intermediate stops. It offers efficient, fast, and flexible delivery options, making it a popular choice for the transportation of large quantities of goods.