FTL Loads in Mexico: What Are They and Why Should You Know About Them?

How to know if I need an FTL type load? If you manage a company that faces the challenge of moving goods from one place to another, you've probably heard about FTL loads. This type of transport, although it may sound technical, is key for many companies in Mexico that seek to improve their logistics efficiency and reduce long-term costs. But what exactly are FTL loads and why should you be interested in them? Let's explain it simply. What are FTL loads? FTL, or Full Truckload, literally means "full truck load." When we talk about this type of service, we refer to a single customer occupying all the available space in the truck to transport their goods. In other words, if you decide to opt for an FTL load, you won't share the vehicle with products from other companies; all the truck's capacity will be used exclusively for your cargo. This makes it an excellent option when your company needs to move large volumes of goods or if, for some reason, you cannot allow products to make several stops along the way. In fact, this type of transport is used a lot when speed and security of goods are essential. Advantages of FTL loads Opting for FTL loads has very concrete benefits that can transform the way you handle your company's logistics. Some of the key advantages are: Faster shipments Since the truck is dedicated only to your goods, the route is usually direct, without having to stop to load or unload products from other companies. This reduces delivery time, something that can be crucial if you work with perishable products or need to meet strict deadlines. Less risk of damage In FTL loads, goods are handled much less. By not having to make several stops or redistribute space for other loads, your products stay safe and without so many hands involved. This is especially important if you handle fragile or high-value products. Greater control over shipment With an FTL load, you can have greater control over how goods are handled during transport. By not sharing space with other companies, you can ensure that appropriate protocols are respected for your type of cargo, whether in terms of temperature, special handling, or any other requirement. When is it convenient to opt for an FTL load? Although FTL loads offer multiple benefits, they are not always the most profitable option for all companies or types of shipments. Below, we explain when it is most convenient to choose this option: Large volumes of goods If your company moves a considerable amount of products regularly, an FTL load is undoubtedly the best option. You not only optimize costs by filling the entire truck, but you also guarantee that your products arrive faster and in better conditions. When time is a critical factor In some industries, meeting strict delivery deadlines is crucial to maintaining a good relationship with customers. If you need your products to arrive urgently, FTL loads offer an efficient solution, avoiding delays from unnecessary stops. Fragile or valuable products As we mentioned before, by not sharing the truck with other shipments, goods are handled less, which is ideal for delicate or high-value products. Additionally, you have the security that transport adjusts to your goods' specific needs, reducing the risk of damage. What are the associated costs? A common question that arises when considering FTL loads is: how much will it cost me? Although at first glance it may seem more expensive to reserve a complete truck, if your company handles a significant volume of products, the cost per unit can be much lower than in an LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipment, where you share space with others. Additionally, the benefits of speed, security, and control that an FTL load offers usually compensate for the initial investment. On the other hand, while the base rate of an FTL shipment may be higher than that of a shared shipment, the possibility of avoiding delays and reducing risks of goods damage are factors that often make it worthwhile. The future of FTL loads in Mexico The rise of e-commerce and the demand for fast deliveries has driven the use of FTL loads in Mexico. Additionally, with the growth of nearshoring and the need to move large volumes of products within and outside the country, this type of transport will continue to be a strategic option for many companies. The ability to make large and fast shipments is increasingly crucial in sectors such as manufacturing, food and beverage distribution, and e-commerce. Therefore, more and more companies are considering FTL loads as a key piece in their logistics strategy. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to have a logistics partner that understands your company's needs. Control Terrestre, our logistics company, specializes in FTL loads and is prepared to offer you efficient and reliable solutions that will get your products where they need to be, at the right time and in perfect conditions.