Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Last Mile • Safety Stock • ROP

FTL

Term from Distribution Logistics industry explained for recruiters

FTL, which stands for Full Truckload, is a common shipping method where one customer's freight takes up an entire truck's space. Unlike shared shipping options, FTL means the truck goes directly from pickup to delivery without other stops. Companies choose FTL when they have enough goods to fill a whole truck (usually over 15,000 pounds) or when they need faster, more secure delivery. It's like having a private car service instead of sharing a bus with other passengers.

Examples in Resumes

Managed FTL shipments for Fortune 500 retailers, reducing transit times by 25%

Coordinated over 500 Full Truckload deliveries monthly across North America

Negotiated FTL carrier rates resulting in 15% cost savings

Typical job title: "FTL Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Transportation Coordinator Logistics Coordinator Freight Coordinator Transportation Planner Logistics Planner Load Planner FTL Dispatcher Transportation Manager

Where to Find FTL Coordinators

Professional Networks

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple high-priority FTL shipments need to be scheduled with limited truck availability?

Expected Answer: A senior coordinator should explain their process for prioritizing shipments based on customer agreements, delivery deadlines, and cost implications. They should mention strategies like carrier negotiations, alternative routing, and communication with stakeholders.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to reduce FTL shipping costs while maintaining service quality?

Expected Answer: Should discuss carrier relationship management, route optimization, implementing tracking systems, negotiating volume discounts, and analyzing shipping data to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure compliance with DOT regulations for FTL shipments?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic DOT requirements, how they verify carrier compliance, maintaining proper documentation, and monitoring driver hours of service.

Q: Explain your process for selecting carriers for FTL shipments.

Expected Answer: Should discuss comparing carrier rates, checking safety records, verifying insurance coverage, and evaluating past performance and reliability.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between FTL and LTL shipping?

Expected Answer: Should explain that FTL (Full Truckload) uses the entire truck for one customer's freight, while LTL (Less Than Truckload) combines multiple customers' shipments in one truck.

Q: What information do you need to book an FTL shipment?

Expected Answer: Should list basic requirements like pickup/delivery locations, dates, freight dimensions and weight, special handling needs, and contact information.