Goods can be transported by various modes of transport: sea, air, rail, or road. However, road freight is considered the most popular method of goods transportation.
Road freight is divided into two main types – groupage (LTL) and full truckload (FTL). Each has its own specific features.
FTL (Full Truck Load) is the transportation of general cargo where the entire vehicle capacity is allocated to a single customer. Unlike LTL (Less Than Truckload), where one truck carries goods from several clients, FTL shipping avoids transshipment, minimizes the risk of damage to goods, and reduces transit time. The cargo occupies the entire space of the truck and is sent to a single recipient. For large shipments, one or more vehicles can be used. This delivery method is versatile: modern TRASKO road trains can transport goods of various weights, dimensions, hazard classes, and storage requirements. This type of transportation is especially in demand among businesses that require timely and safe transport of oversized or valuable cargo.
FTL logistics is often used for the delivery of industrial goods, construction materials, equipment, agricultural products, and much more. It allows the customer to control the transport conditions, route, and deadlines, making it one of the most reliable types of freight transportation.
FTL Delivery Times and Costs
What affects the shipping cost?
-
Route distance.
-
Weight and volume of the cargo.
-
Need for special conditions (temperature control, security, etc.).
-
Urgency of delivery.
-
Additional services (insurance, freight forwarding).
Average FTL delivery times within Russia are from 1 to 7 days, depending on the distance.
If you need to calculate a preliminary delivery cost, you can do so using our calculator.
Please note that the calculator provides an estimated cost for the service. The final price is individual and will be calculated by your personal manager.
Advantages of FTL Shipping
Full truckload shipping is not suitable for everyone. If you have a small shipment of goods, we recommend considering groupage cargo delivery. However, FTL logistics offers many advantages that make this type of delivery preferable for businesses:
-
Speed and efficiency. Since the cargo moves directly to its destination without intermediate transshipments, delivery time is significantly reduced. Road transport is carried out along the most effective route. The truck does not stop at other warehouses and does not waste time loading and unloading goods for other customers.
-
Minimal risk of damage. The cargo is not reloaded at intermediate warehouses, which eliminates the possibility of loss and damage.
-
Route flexibility. Unlike LTL, where transportation follows pre-approved routes with multiple stops, FTL delivery allows the route to be adapted to the individual needs of the client.
-
Enhanced security. The ability to seal the truck, provide additional cargo securing, and monitor the shipment at every stage makes this type of logistics as secure as possible.
-
Cost-effectiveness for large shipments. If the cargo occupies the entire capacity of the vehicle, the cost of transportation per unit of product is reduced.
When is it beneficial to use FTL delivery?
-
Transporting oversized cargo – if the volume of the cargo is close to a full truckload.
-
Transporting fragile and valuable goods – minimizing transshipment reduces the risk of damage.
-
Need for urgent delivery – the ability to transport without stops and intermediate warehouses.
-
Strictly controlled supply chain – if full control over the transportation process is required.
-
Cargo requiring special transport conditions – for example, temperature control or special fastenings.
What types of cargo are transported via FTL?
TRASKO delivers almost any type of cargo. FTL shipping is used for transporting:
-
Industrial equipment – complex and expensive equipment requires careful transportation.
-
Construction materials – concrete, bricks, rebar, glass.
-
Food products – FTL delivery with refrigerated units ensures the freshness of products.
-
Pharmaceuticals – medicines require strict temperature control and minimal contact with the external environment.
-
Chemical and dangerous goods (ADR) – FTL logistics allows for the transportation of such goods in compliance with regulatory requirements.
-
Digital equipment, textiles, oversized cargo, and much more.
How does FTL delivery work?
1. Preparation for dispatch
This stage includes measuring and weighing the cargo, choosing containers, packing and labeling, selecting a suitable vehicle for the shipment, measuring and weighing the already packaged goods, as well as preparing documents and insurance. Most of these responsibilities are handled by the shipper. However, part of the work, such as selecting transport based on the cargo's dimensions and weight, additional labeling, and document preparation, can be delegated to a freight forwarding company. TRASKO managers will be happy to help you understand the shipping process and advise on any questions.
2. Submitting a request
The client contacts the logistics company, specifying the type of cargo, volume, route, and desired delivery times. The terms of transportation are agreed upon at this stage.
3. Vehicle selection
The optimal type of vehicle is selected depending on the cargo's characteristics (refrigerated truck, tilt truck, container truck, etc.).
4. LoadingLoading is usually carried out by the shipper. The driver of the vehicle controls the loading process, checks the distribution of the cargo in the semi-trailer, and ensures the strength and correctness of the securing of the declared goods. The driver records any issues identified during loading on a special consignment note, which is certified by the shipper. The cargo is placed in accordance with safety standards, secured, and sealed.
5. Transportation
The delivery is fully controlled by the transport company. If any difficulties arise on the road or changes need to be made to the process, the freight forwarder takes care of all issues. The company also monitors the vehicle's movement and informs the customer. The cargo moves along the agreed route with the possibility of real-time tracking. On our website, you can track your cargo yourself at your convenience.
6. Unloading and signing documents
At this stage, the driver signs the consignment note confirming the delivery of the cargo, and the consignee also signs it. The driver does not participate in unloading unless it is previously specified in the contract. Upon arrival, the cargo is unloaded, its integrity is checked, and all necessary documents are signed.
Types of vehicles used in FTL
Depending on the nature of the cargo, different types of vehicles can be used for FTL shipping:
-
Tautliners/Tilt trailers – a versatile option for most types of cargo.
-
Refrigerated trucks (Reefers) – for transporting perishable goods.
-
Container trucks – for modular cargo delivery.
-
Tankers – for liquids and gases.
-
Flatbeds and low-bed trailers – for oversized cargo.
To which destinations do we deliver cargo?
We are ready to offer you transport within Russia, to the Republic of Belarus, as well as to CIS countries, Asia, and Europe. You just need to select the points on the map and provide us with some details – we will do the rest.
What documents are needed for FTL shipping?
For domestic transportation in Russia, the standard package of documents includes:
-
Consignment note (TTN).
-
Transport agreement.
-
Product certificates.
For international shipping, the following will be required:
-
Customs declarations.
-
Invoices.
-
Insurance documents.
How to order FTL delivery?
To order FTL shipping from TRASKO, you just need to:
-
Leave a request on the website or call a manager.
-
Specify the cargo parameters and delivery route.
-
Receive a cost calculation and agree on the details.
-
Complete the documents and start the transportation process.
FTL delivery is a reliable and efficient method for transporting general cargo, which allows for minimizing risks, reducing delivery times, and ensuring control at all stages of transportation. TRASKO offers its clients a wide range of transport solutions, additional services, and an individual approach to each order.
By turning to professionals, you get a guarantee of safety, timeliness, and quality of service. We will take care of all transportation tasks: from packing and preparing documents to assisting with unloading the goods at the consignee's warehouse.