In the constantly changing, dynamic world of shipping and logistics, Part Truck Load [PTL] services are a game-changer, providing you with cost-effective ways to transport products. This flexible, ‘easy on the pocket’ solution works especially well for small and medium-sized businesses with less cargo to transport. In this blog, we’ll explore PTL in more detail.
In B2B logistics, two terms are frequently used: full truck load or FTL and part truck load or PTL. These terms describe different shipment options available to business owners. In Full Truck Load, the business owners require the entire truck for the product. The vehicle size is irrelevant; the entire shipment is for one B2B logistics customer. Alternatively, business owners also opt for part truck load where the shipment occupies only a part of the space in the truck, and the rest of the area is left for other customers. In part truck load, the area of the truck is shared by multiple customers, making it a feasible choice for those who want to ship goods, but the quantity is not enough to justify the cost of using an entire truck area. This service provides customers with a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable solution. As transportation costs and requirements increase exponentially and regularly, these solutions give people a much-needed workaround to their logistics issues.
PTL vs. LTL vs. FTL
Part truck load or PTL is when the truck accommodates multiple shipments. Two types of PTL used frequently are less than truckload or LTL and grouped shipments. LTL is a type of PTL that is used most frequently. In LTL, the truck contains shipments from different businesses, which are consolidated, adjusted, and shipped together. In grouped shipments, the truckload is based on origin and destination. In this case, the shipment’s origin and destination contained in the truck are similar, saving time and cost.
In full truckload or FTL service, the entire truck is loaded with shipment from one business owner, making the destination a one-stop service. This type of shipment is more applicable for businesses that transport goods in bulk and require the space of an entire truck to do so.
Benefits of PTL
One of the major struggles for logistics companies is to adjust the shipments booked optimally to ensure maximum space utilization and minimum wastage of resources. Part truck load ensures that truck space is arranged optimally, thus saving on costs, reducing carbon footprint, and maximizing the utilization of resources.
Let us look at these benefits individually.
- Eco-friendly – In part truck load, a single truck can carry multiple shipments, thus reducing the carbon footprint. Considerably less fuel is used than if these part shipments were carried individually since the trucks are filled optimally, which ensures maximum efficiency. Suppose a truck is scheduled to travel to a certain area. In that case, it is loaded completely with shipments specific to the same geographical location, making this an eco-friendly option. Less fuel used means less emission due to multiple trips, making it a good, long-term, sustainable solution.
- Save cost – For business owners who do not have enough shipment to justify using a full truckload, the answer is opting for part truckload service. In this service, they share the transportation cost with other customers, thus reducing the cost considerably. This option is particularly useful for business owners who do not ship cargo requiring special handling. In such cases, they can share the truck area with other shipments.
- Easy transport – Part truckload is mostly used by business owners who ship products in limited capacities. Hence, the shipment is easy and has much less complication during transportation. The transportation route is planned considering the shipment addresses, ensuring an efficient delivery of products.
- Flexible – Another advantage of part truck load is its flexibility when delivering the goods. This option optimizes the delivery route in such a way as to accommodate multiple halts on the way. This way, the business owners can meet the customers’ delivery expectations and their specific delivery requirements, if any. Furthermore, certain B2B logistics providers also give the business owner the flexibility to choose the vehicle they want to load their shipment, adding another layer of flexibility to this process.
When to choose PTL
When business owners consider using part truck load service for their shipments, they have to consider certain factors. The business owner must be adaptable to a flexible delivery schedule, as the truck might have to make multiple stops on its delivery route. This service is also suited for small shipments that do not require the entire truck. The shipment should also be able to fit with other small shipments.
If the delivery schedule of the shipment is flexible and can accommodate the multiple stops a truck makes with multiple shipments, PTL might be the best option. Suppose the shipment has a fixed delivery schedule. In that case, the next consideration will be to ensure that the truck’s delivery schedule aligns with the business owner’s delivery plan.
Who can use PTL
The most frequent users of part truck load are businesses that handle small shipments frequently. They transport goods in small quantities but do so several times. In such cases, PTL makes sense cost-wise, as business owners do not have to pay the cost of the full truck every time. Industries, such as retail and e-commerce, use part truck load effectively. Some distribution centers also use partial truckloads; consequently, they receive goods in small shipments multiple times. As a result of these small shipments, these distribution centers can consolidate their goods and distribute them efficiently across multiple locations.
Conclusion:
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to opt for part truckload. Understanding the difference between full and part truckload is essential in deciding which one to consider. Other factors include the size of the shipment, the frequency, the budget, and the flexibility of the schedule. While FTL offers a faster delivery, PTL is eco-friendly and cost-effective. Before choosing PTL, the business owner must check the shipment size and frequency and consider whether sending the entire shipment in one go or in parts will be cost-effective.
The main goal of PTL is to use the available space optimally and be easy on the pocket, so business owners must take the time and do thorough research to check whether using PTL is economical and whether opting for it will improve efficiency and help improve customer satisfaction.
For all your questions about FTL and PTL, Connect with XPDEL, and we will be happy to help.
About XPDEL:
XPDEL helps eCommerce brands accelerate their growth, empowering them with multi-channel fulfillment, whether shipping directly to consumers, delivering to businesses, or selling through retail stores. We are founded and operated by veterans with experience from Amazon, FedEx, UPS, JDA, Walmart, Target, and other leading companies in eCommerce and Retail. Guided by these experts, we provide customer experiences that help you grow your business.
