What Is Full Load Haulage?
Full load haulage, also called FTL (full truck load), means your goods have exclusive use of a whole vehicle, usually an articulated trailer, from collection to delivery. Here is what that means in practice and when it makes sense.
What FTL means
With a full truck load, the vehicle is booked for your consignment only. It collects, travels directly and delivers without picking up other customers' goods on the way. You pay for the whole trailer, whether or not your goods fill every inch of it.
When full load transport is appropriate
Full load is usually the right choice when your goods fill most of a trailer, when timing is critical, when goods are fragile or high value, or when they should not be mixed with other freight. It is also common for regular scheduled movements between the same sites.
Typical freight types
Palletised stock, manufacturing components and finished goods, construction materials, retail stock heading to distribution centres, exhibition equipment and large machinery that needs a dedicated vehicle.
Full load vs part load
Part load (LTL) shares the vehicle with other consignments, so you pay for the space you use but the vehicle may make extra stops. Full load costs more per movement, but it is more predictable, usually quicker and involves less handling. If your goods take up roughly half a trailer or more, it is worth comparing both.
Benefits of a dedicated trailer
Fewer touch points and less risk of damage
Direct routing and clearer timings
Security, as nothing else is loaded alongside your goods
Flexibility on collection and delivery times
UK vs European movements
UK full loads can often be collected and delivered within a day or two. European full loads take longer and involve a Channel crossing and the correct customs documentation. We coordinate both through our trusted carrier network.
Information required for a quote
Collection and delivery postcodes (and countries), the type of goods, number of pallets or items, dimensions and total weight, whether goods are stackable, ready date, required delivery date and any loading restrictions.
Loading and unloading considerations
Most full loads are loaded by forklift from a loading bay or from the side of a curtainsider. If there is no forklift or bay at either end, tell us, as it affects which vehicle can be used. Restricted access, booking-in times and site rules should also be shared in advance.
Vehicle types
Full loads are typically moved on curtainsider or box trailers. Smaller dedicated loads may suit a rigid lorry. The right vehicle depends on your load size, weight, access and loading method, and we will confirm the suitable option when quoting.
FAQs
Do I need to fill the whole trailer? No. You are booking the vehicle, so you can use as much space as you need.
Can you arrange regular full loads? Yes, we support one-off and scheduled movements.
Do you own the trailers? No. Full loads are arranged through our trusted transport partner network, and we remain your point of contact throughout.
Ready to arrange your transport?
One point of contact for UK and European transport, from a single item to a full artic load.