Understanding LTL vs. FTL Freight Rates
Freight rates are one of the most volatile costs in supply chain operations, often fluctuating 15–40% between seasons. Understanding what drives rates—and benchmarking your rates against the market—can represent hundreds of thousands of dollars in annual savings for mid-sized operators.
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Rates
LTL freight is priced per hundred pounds (CWT — hundredweight). Your shipment shares trailer space with other shippers' freight, which reduces cost but increases transit time. LTL rates depend on shipment weight, freight class (NMFC classification based on density, stow-ability, handling, and liability), origin-destination lane, and accessorial charges (liftgate, residential delivery, inside delivery, etc.).
Typical LTL shipments range from 150 to 15,000 lbs. Below 150 lbs, parcel (UPS/FedEx) is usually cheaper. Above 10,000–15,000 lbs, full truckload becomes more cost-effective. Fuel surcharges on LTL shipments currently run approximately 24–26% on top of the base rate, based on the EIA diesel national average.
FTL (Full Truckload) Rates
FTL rates are quoted per mile or as an all-in load rate for a specific lane. Dry van rates nationally average $2.60–$3.00/mile in early 2026, down from the 2022 peak of over $3.80/mile. Reefer (refrigerated) commands a $0.40–$0.60 premium per mile. Peak seasons—produce season (Apr–Jun) and retail peak (Oct–Dec)—typically push rates 15–25% above base.
Ocean Freight Benchmarks
For imports, ocean freight is quoted as FCL (Full Container Load—you book a 20' or 40' container) or LCL (Less than Container Load—shared container). The Freightos Baltic Index, which tracks spot container rates on major trade lanes, shows China–US West Coast FCL 40' rates at approximately $2,000–$2,200 in Q1 2026, elevated from Q4 2025 lows due to seasonal demand and ongoing Red Sea disruptions.
How to Use This Freight Rate Benchmarking Tool
Enter your origin, destination, shipping mode, and weight. If you enter your current rate, the tool compares it to the market average and estimates your annual over/underpayment. Rate data is sourced from DAT Trendlines, the Freightos Baltic Index, and SupplyChainStack marketplace data. All estimates are labeled as such—no rate is presented as a guaranteed quote.
For specific carrier quotes on a lane, use the Carrier Match tool to request real quotes from vetted carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average LTL freight rate in 2026?
The national average LTL rate in Q1 2026 is approximately $28–$32 per hundredweight (CWT) for standard dry goods on regional lanes (500–1,000 miles). Cross-country lanes (2,000+ miles) typically run $35–$48/CWT. These figures include a fuel surcharge of ~25%. Rates vary significantly by freight class, lane density, and carrier type. Source: DAT Trendlines, March 2026.
How do I benchmark my freight costs?
Enter your origin, destination, mode, and shipment weight into this calculator. If you enter your current carrier rate, the tool will show you how it compares to the market average and estimate your annual over/underpayment. For the most accurate benchmarking, compare rates across at least 3 carriers on each lane using the Carrier Match tool.
What is freight class and how does it affect my rate?
Freight class (NMFC class) is a standardized classification system that determines LTL pricing. Classes range from 50 (densest, cheapest per cwt) to 500 (least dense, most expensive). Class is determined by density (weight ÷ cubic feet), stow-ability, handling difficulty, and liability. Electronics typically fall in Class 70–100, while standard dry goods are Class 50–65. A Class 100 shipment may cost 40–60% more per cwt than a Class 55 shipment of the same weight.
How much does it cost to ship a full truckload (FTL)?
FTL rates in 2026 average $2.60–$3.00 per mile for dry van and $3.00–$3.60 per mile for refrigerated (reefer). A 1,200-mile coast-to-coast dry van load typically runs $3,100–$3,600 all-in. Rates are lower in soft markets (like current conditions) and spike during peak seasons. Flatbed loads run $2.60–$3.20/mile depending on permit requirements.
What is the Freightos Baltic Index?
The Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) is a benchmark for ocean container freight rates on major global trade lanes, similar to the Baltic Dry Index for bulk shipping. It tracks spot container rates (in USD per container) on lanes like China–US West Coast, China–US East Coast, China–Europe, and 11 other routes. Updated weekly, it's widely used by shippers and supply chain teams to monitor ocean freight market conditions.
When are freight rates highest?
LTL and FTL rates are typically highest in two periods: (1) Spring produce season (April–June), when agricultural volume floods the market and capacity tightens, especially in the Southeast and Midwest; and (2) Q4 retail peak (October–December), when holiday inventory moves. Ocean freight peaks in August–October as retailers import Q4 inventory. Rates are generally lowest in January–March (post-holiday) and July–August (mid-year lull).
How accurate is this freight rate calculator?
This tool provides market rate estimates based on publicly available benchmark data (DAT Trendlines, Freightos Baltic Index) and marketplace data. Estimates are accurate to ±15–20% for common lanes and modes. Actual carrier quotes may vary based on your specific lane density, carrier network, contract vs. spot pricing, and accessorial requirements. For binding quotes, use the Carrier Match tool. All rates are clearly labeled as estimates.