FTL
FTL, which stands for Full Truckload shipping, is a common transportation method where an entire truck is dedicated to one customer's freight. This is different from LTL (Less Than Truckload) where multiple customers share the same truck. Companies choose FTL when they have enough goods to fill a whole truck, typically around 26-30 pallets or 42,000-45,000 pounds. It's usually faster and more cost-effective for large shipments because the truck goes directly to its destination without multiple stops.
Examples in Resumes
Managed FTL carrier relationships resulting in 15% cost savings
Optimized shipping routes for Full Truckload deliveries across 48 states
Negotiated FTL rates with national carriers reducing transportation costs by 20%
Typical job title: "Transportation Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Transportation Managers
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you optimize FTL shipping costs while maintaining service levels?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover carrier contract negotiations, route optimization, backhaul opportunities, and using technology to track and improve efficiency. Should also mention fuel surcharge management and seasonal planning.
Q: How do you handle FTL capacity issues during peak seasons?
Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies like maintaining strong carrier relationships, advance planning, flexible scheduling, and having backup carriers. Should also mention using data to predict seasonal patterns.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between FTL and LTL shipping?
Expected Answer: Should mention shipment size, urgency, cost comparisons, distance, product type, and customer requirements. Should also discuss break-even points between FTL and LTL.
Q: How do you track and measure FTL shipping performance?
Expected Answer: Should discuss key metrics like on-time delivery, cost per mile, loading/unloading times, and carrier performance scoring. Should mention use of transportation management systems.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is FTL shipping and when is it typically used?
Expected Answer: Should explain that FTL means Full Truckload, where one truck carries one customer's freight, typically used for large shipments that fill an entire truck, offering faster transit times and less handling.
Q: What basic documentation is required for FTL shipments?
Expected Answer: Should mention Bill of Lading, proof of delivery, freight bills, and basic shipping documentation. Should understand the purpose of each document.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of FTL operations
- Freight documentation handling
- Communication with carriers
- Basic rate analysis
Mid (2-5 years)
- Carrier relationship management
- Route optimization
- Cost analysis and budgeting
- Performance metrics tracking
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic carrier negotiations
- Network optimization
- Team leadership
- Transportation budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic shipping documentation
- Unfamiliarity with transportation management systems
- Poor understanding of freight rates and costs
- Lack of carrier relationship management experience
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Recruitment in the Fast Lane: How to Adapt Hiring Practices in the Blink of an Eye
Reducing Time-to-Hire: Practical Strategies Using AI Tools
From Farewells to Future Allies: Transforming Exit Interviews into Lifelong Connections
