Shipping Mode Comparison
Compare freight costs across cargo van, box truck, LTL, and FTL side by side. Enter your lane and pallet count to find the cheapest way to ship.
How to use: Enter your shipment details once and see cost, transit time, and service level compared across LTL, FTL, box truck, and cargo van, so you can pick the best mode for the job.
How to choose the right shipping mode
The cheapest way to ship freight depends on three factors: pallet count, lane distance, and urgency. For 1-3 pallets on regional lanes, a cargo van is often the most cost-effective option. For 1-6 pallets on any lane, LTL through Warp cross-dock facilities offers the best balance of cost and speed. For 6-12 pallets, a dedicated box truck eliminates the multi-stop routing of LTL. And for 13+ pallets, a full truckload is the clear winner.
The comparison tool above pulls real rate data from the Warp network to show you what each mode costs on your specific lane. The cheapest option is highlighted automatically.
Mode breakdown
Cargo van: best for 1-3 pallets, parcels, or cartons. Same-day dispatch available. Ideal for urgent, small, or parcel-alternative freight where a full truck is overkill.
Box truck (26-foot): best for 1-12 pallets. Liftgate-equipped for locations without loading docks. Temperature-controlled options available. Fills the gap between parcel-size freight and full truckloads.
LTL (cross-dock): best for 1-6 pallets. Freight moves through Warp cross-dock facilities with 1-2 handoffs instead of 3-5 at traditional terminals. All-inclusive per-pallet pricing with no fuel surcharges.
FTL (full truckload): best for 13+ pallets or loads filling a 53-foot trailer. Dedicated truck from pickup to delivery. Most cost-effective per-pallet rate at scale.
Shipping mode comparison at a glance
Mode comparison FAQ
What is the cheapest way to ship a pallet?
It depends on pallet count and distance. For 1-3 pallets on short lanes, cargo van is often cheapest. For 1-6 pallets, Warp cross-dock LTL is typically 24% cheaper than terminal LTL. For 6+ pallets, FTL becomes cost-effective. Use the comparison tool above to see rates for your specific lane.
When should I use LTL vs FTL?
LTL is best for 1-6 pallets (shared truck space). FTL is best for 13+ pallets (dedicated truck). The crossover is typically 8-12 pallets depending on lane and weight. Between 6-12 pallets, a box truck often offers the best value.
Why is Warp LTL cheaper than traditional LTL?
Warp routes through cross-dock facilities instead of terminals, reducing handoffs from 3-5 to 1-2. This eliminates terminal handling charges and enables 24% lower per-pallet costs. All rates are all-inclusive, with no fuel surcharges or accessorial fees.
What is the cost difference between LTL and FTL?
LTL costs more per pallet but less per shipment. On a typical 500-mile lane, LTL might cost $150-300 per pallet for 4 pallets ($600-1,200 total), while FTL costs $1,500-2,500 total. The break-even is usually 8-12 pallets where the FTL per-pallet rate drops below LTL.
When does a box truck make more sense than LTL?
A box truck beats LTL when you need delivery without a loading dock (liftgate included), when you have 6-12 pallets, or when you need faster transit without multi-terminal routing. Box trucks also work well for residential and retail deliveries.
Can I ship pallets without a loading dock?
Yes. Warp box trucks include liftgates at no extra charge. Cargo vans handle cases and cartons without a dock. For LTL, liftgate service is available but most traditional carriers charge $75-150 extra as an accessorial.
How do I choose the right shipping mode?
Start with pallet count: 1-3 pallets consider cargo van, 1-6 pallets consider LTL, 6-12 pallets consider box truck, 13+ pallets use FTL. Then factor in urgency, dock availability, and budget. The comparison tool above calculates all four modes for your specific lane.
Ship the smart way
Warp covers all 4 modes (LTL, FTL, box truck, and cargo van) with all-inclusive pricing. Quote any mode instantly.