LTL Pricing
Per 100 lbs (hundredweight)
2026 avg: 25% to 32%
Liftgate, inside delivery, etc.
FTL Pricing
Leave blank to calculate from rate per mile
2026 avg: $2.50 to $3.50/mile
If not included in rate
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What This Calculator Does
This LTL versus FTL break-even calculator compares the total shipping cost of less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) freight for a specific shipment. It calculates the total cost for each mode including base rates, fuel surcharges, and accessorial charges, then identifies which option is cheaper and by how much. The calculator also estimates the break-even weight where FTL becomes more cost-effective than LTL, helping shippers optimize their freight spending based on shipment size, weight, distance, and freight class.
The Formula
LTL pricing is based on hundredweight (CWT = 100 lbs), freight class, and distance with a fuel surcharge percentage added. FTL pricing is typically a flat rate or rate per mile for the entire truck regardless of weight (up to the legal maximum of 44,000 to 45,000 lbs). The break-even point is where the per-pound cost of LTL equals the per-pound cost of FTL, making FTL the better value above that weight.
Step-by-Step Example
Enter shipment details
Shipping 5,000 lbs on 4 pallets, Class 85, traveling 800 miles.
Calculate LTL cost
Rate: $18.50 per CWT. Base: 50 CWT x $18.50 = $925. Fuel surcharge at 28%: $259. Accessorials (liftgate): $150. Total LTL: $1,334.
Calculate FTL cost
Rate: $2.85 per mile x 800 miles = $2,280. No separate fuel surcharge (included in rate). Total FTL: $2,280.
Compare and find break-even
LTL saves $946 (41.5%). Break-even weight at these rates: approximately 8,500 lbs. Above 8,500 lbs, FTL becomes cheaper.
Real-World Use Cases
Shipment Mode Selection
Shippers entering the 5,000 to 15,000 lb range compare both options before booking to ensure they choose the most cost-effective mode for each shipment.
Volume Consolidation Planning
If multiple LTL shipments going to the same region total more than the break-even weight, consolidating into one FTL load saves money.
Rate Negotiation
Understanding the break-even point gives shippers leverage when negotiating LTL rates. If LTL quotes approach FTL pricing at your typical weights, you have a clear alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to include the LTL fuel surcharge. The fuel surcharge adds 25% to 32% on top of the base rate in 2026 and is a significant part of total LTL cost.
Not accounting for LTL accessorial charges. Liftgate delivery ($75 to $150), residential delivery ($75 to $125), inside delivery ($100 to $200), and appointment scheduling ($25 to $50) can add hundreds to an LTL shipment.
Comparing spot rates to contract rates. LTL contract rates are typically 50% to 70% off tariff. Comparing a discounted FTL spot rate to full-tariff LTL is not a fair comparison.
Ignoring transit time differences. LTL shipments often take 3 to 7 days due to terminal transfers and consolidation. FTL is typically 1 to 3 days direct. The cost of slower transit (inventory carrying cost, customer satisfaction) should factor into the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Accuracy and Disclaimer
Freight rates vary by carrier, lane, season, contract terms, and market conditions. This calculator provides estimates based on user-provided rates. Always obtain actual quotes from carriers or brokers for accurate pricing. Accessorial charges and service levels differ between carriers.
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