# Less-than-truckload transport (LTL)

*Last updated: 2026-06-24*

> Less-than-truckload (LTL) transport consolidates shipments from multiple shippers into a single truck movement, with each party paying only for the space and weight their cargo occupies.

Less-than-truckload (LTL) transport consolidates shipments from multiple shippers into a single truck movement, with each party paying only for the space and weight their cargo occupies. This makes it the default solution when a consignment is too large for a parcel carrier but falls short of filling an entire vehicle. Freight moves through hub terminals, where it is sorted, re-grouped, and dispatched on outbound delivery runs – a process that adds handling steps compared to full truckload (FTL) but significantly reduces unit costs. The trade-off for shippers is longer and less predictable transit times, which must be factored into supply chain planning. LTL networks form a backbone of road freight in Europe and North America.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Less-than-truckload_shipping](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Less-than-truckload_shipping)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Less-than-truckload transport (LTL) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 115 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-24 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Less-than-truckload_shipping |

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