Choosing the Right Option for your Ontario Business

When shipping goods across Ontario and beyond, businesses can choose between the two primary freight options: Less-than-Truckload (LTL) and Full Truckload. (TL). Each option has its advantages and is suited for different shipping needs. Understanding the differences can help Ontario businesses optimize costs, efficiency and delivery times.

Ontario is a hub in Canada’s supply chain, home to major manufacturing centers, thriving e-commerce corridors connecting the province to the rest of Canada and the United States. Whether you’re shopping from the Greater Toronto Area, Ottawa, Windsor or more remote locations throughout Northern Ontario, choosing the right freight solution is key to meeting customer expectations and maintaining efficient business operations. This blog explores the core differences between LTL and FTL shipping, helping businesses in Ontario determine which method best fits their logistics strategy.

What is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is designed for shipments that do not require a full truck. Multiple businesses share space on a single truck, and costs are divided based on the amount of space each shipment occupies.

Advantages of LTL Shipping:

• • Cost-Effective: Since multiple shipments are on a truck, businesses only pay for the space they use.
  • Greater Flexibility: Ideal for smaller shipments, LTL allows businesses to ship more frequently without waiting to ship as a truckload.
  • Scalable for Season Demand: Ontario businesses that experience season spikes can benefit from LTL shipping to scale up or down their transportation needs based on demand.
  • Reduced Warehousing Costs: Frequent, smaller LTL shipments may reduce the need for longer term warehousing for product. 

Considerations of LTL Shipping:

• • Longer Transit Times: Because LTL shipments make multiple stops, deliveries may take longer.
  • Additional Freight Handling: LTL freight is generally cross-docked more throughout the transportation process.
  • Limited Control: Businesses must adhere more closely to the carrier’s route and schedule when shipping LTL.

What is FTL Shipping?

FTL shipping is when the full truck is booked, giving the shipper access to the entire trailer. This is typically used for large, high-volume, or time-sensitive loads.

Advantages of FTL Shipping:

• • Faster Delivery: Shipments go directly to their destination without multiple stops.
  • Greater Control: Businesses have more say over pickup and delivery schedules. 
  • Higher Customizability: For businesses with skids that don’t fit into the “standard” dimensions, shipping TL can allow them to have more control on how they want 

Considerations of FTL Shipping:

• • Higher Costs: The primary limitation for FTL shipping is the higher cost associated with this service. When booking a truckload, you are paying for the full trailer, even if all the space isn’t used. 

Which Option is Right for Ontario Businesses?

Choosing between LTL and FTL depends on several factors:

• • Shipment Size – Small and frequent shipments are best suited for LTL, while large or bulk shipments benefit from FTL.

  • Budget – If cost is a primary concern, LTL may be the better option.

  • Delivery Speed – Urgent shipments that require quick delivery should opt for FTL.

  • Fragility of Goods – Businesses shipping delicate items may prefer FTL for reduced handling.

How Wood-Hall Logistics Can Help

Whether your business needs regular LTL shipments or full truckload transportation, Wood-Hall Logistics provides tailored freight solutions throughout Ontario. Our team understands the unique demands of Ontario’s shipping landscape—from urban distribution in the GTA to servicing remote areas in Northern Ontario.

We offer:

• Reliable LTL Services with regular route coverage across major Ontario trade corridors

• FTL Solutions for larger-volume, time-sensitive deliveries with dedicated truck options

• Flexible Scheduling to meet your production and delivery timelines

• Knowledgeable Support to help you choose the most cost-effective and efficient method for your shipment

With a commitment to efficiency and customer service, Wood-Hall Logistics helps Ontario businesses move goods with confidence.

Conclusion

Ontario businesses must assess their specific shipping needs when determining which option work best between LTL and FTL. While LTL is cost-efficient and flexible, FTL offers speed and security. By understanding these difference, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their logistical and financial goals.

Looking to learn more about transportation? We are always open to answering any questions! Reach out to us today through operations@wood-hall.com or give us a call at 519-213-1000!

-The Team at Wood-Hall Logistics