Weight Limits for FTL Freight: Maximum Truckload Capacity Explained

Understanding FTL freight weight limits is one of the most important factors in successful full truckload shipping. Whether you are moving industrial goods, palletized retail freight, or time sensitive commercial shipments, knowing the maximum truckload capacity helps you stay compliant, control costs, and avoid delays.

In both Canada and the United States, truckload freight regulations are strict and are enforced to protect road safety, infrastructure, and cargo integrity.

This guide explains:

• FTL freight weight limits

• Maximum legal truckload weight

• Pallet capacity

• Trailer specifications

• Axle weight limits

• Freight weight compliance rules

So shippers can confidently plan full truckload shipments.

What Is Full Truckload Shipping

Full truckload shipping is used when a shipment requires the exclusive use of an entire trailer. This may be due to shipment weight, volume, security needs, or delivery timeline.

Unlike shared freight, full truckload shipping:

• Reduces handling

• Improves transit speed

• Lowers the risk of cargo damage

FTL shipping is commonly selected when:

• Shipment weight exceeds 15000 to 20000 pounds

• The shipment includes ten or more pallets

• Freight requires direct delivery without transfers

• High value or sensitive cargo must remain sealed

Because FTL shipment weight is higher than LTL, understanding truckload freight capacity is essential.

Maximum Legal Truckload Weight

The maximum legal truckload weight is governed by the gross vehicle weight limit. This rule applies across Canada and the United States and includes the total weight of the tractor, trailer, fuel, driver, and cargo.

Gross Vehicle Weight Limit

• Maximum allowed gross vehicle weight is 80000 pounds

To stay within this limit, cargo weight must be controlled carefully. This determines the maximum FTL weight a trailer can legally carry.

Standard FTL Load Weight

• Typical FTL freight weight limit ranges from 42000 to 45000 pounds of cargo

• This range ensures compliance with the gross vehicle weight limit

This weight range defines the standard FTL shipment weight for most dry van operations.

Dry Van Trailer Capacity

53 ft Trailer Weight Limit

The most common equipment used in full truckload shipping is the 53 foot dry van. It offers the best balance of weight capacity, pallet space, and cubic volume.

• Maximum cargo weight is typically 44000 to 45000 pounds

• Volume capacity ranges from 3500 to 4000 cubic feet

• FTL pallet capacity is usually 26 to 30 standard pallets

The 53 ft trailer weight limit is ideal for most truckload freight capacity needs and supports efficient long haul transportation.

48 ft Trailer Capacity

Some shipments use 48 foot trailers, especially in regional or restricted routes.

• Lower volume capacity than 53 foot trailers

• Reduced pallet count

• Lower maximum cargo weight truck allowance

While still suitable for full truckload shipping, the 48 ft trailer capacity is more limited and requires careful planning for weight and space.

Full Truckload Pallet Capacity

The full truckload pallet limit depends on trailer size, pallet dimensions, and cargo weight.

• Standard pallets measure 48 by 40 inches

• Typical truck freight pallet capacity ranges from 26 to 30 pallets

• Heavy freight may reduce pallet count to stay within weight limits

FTL pallet capacity is influenced not only by space but also by freight density.

Freight Density and Weight Distribution

Cargo Weight Distribution Truck

Even when total weight is within limits, improper cargo distribution can cause compliance issues. Cargo must be evenly distributed to prevent axle overload.

• Uneven loading can exceed axle limits

• Proper pallet placement improves stability and safety

• Safe truck loading weight reduces tire and suspension wear

Correct cargo weight distribution is essential for meeting freight weight compliance rules.

Axle Weight Limits Explained

Axle limits play a major role in truckload freight regulations.

Single Axle Weight Limit

• Maximum allowed weight is 20000 pounds

Tandem Axle Weight Limit

• Maximum allowed weight is 34000 pounds

Exceeding axle weight limits can result in fines even if total weight remains under the maximum legal truckload weight.

Factors Affecting FTL Freight Weight Limits

Several variables influence FTL shipping weight capacity.

Equipment Type

• Dry vans allow higher cargo weight

• Refrigerated trailers weigh more, reducing payload

• Flatbeds may have different weight and securement rules

Freight Density

• Dense freight reaches weight limits faster

• Lightweight freight may fill the trailer before reaching max weight

Route and Regulations

• Provincial and state regulations may vary

• Bridge and road restrictions can lower legal limits

These factors impact both FTL freight size limits and maximum truckload capacity.

Truckload Freight Regulations and Compliance

Truckload freight regulations are designed to ensure road safety and infrastructure protection.

Freight Weight Compliance Rules

• Accurate shipment weight documentation is required

• Axle and gross weight limits must be respected

• Improper compliance leads to fines, delays, and reloading

Meeting FTL freight requirements is critical for smooth transportation.

Overweight Freight and Special Permits

Overweight Freight Permits

When a shipment exceeds the maximum truckload weight limit, overweight freight permits are required.

• Permits vary by province and state

• Special routing and timing may apply

• Escort vehicles may be required for heavy freight shipping

Overweight freight shipping also may require specialized trailers and experienced carriers.

When to Use Full Truckload Shipping

Full truckload shipping is recommended when:

• Shipment weight exceeds 15000 pounds

• Freight occupies most of the trailer

• Cargo requires sealed transport

• Delivery deadlines are tight

Understanding truckload shipping specifications ensures the correct mode is selected.

FTL Freight Size and Capacity Overview

Standard truckload freight capacity includes:

• Maximum legal truckload weight of 80000 pounds gross

• Cargo weight capacity of 42000 to 45000 pounds

• Full truckload pallet limit of 26 to 30 pallets

• Volume capacity of up to 4000 cubic feet

These specifications define commercial freight weight limits for standard dry van shipments.

Importance of Accurate Freight Planning

Accurate freight planning helps shippers:

• Avoid overweight violations

• Reduce risk of shipment delays

• Improve safety and compliance

• Optimize shipping costs

Understanding FTL freight weight limits allows businesses to move freight efficiently while remaining compliant with truckload freight regulations.

Final Thoughts on FTL Freight Weight Limits

Full truckload shipping offers efficiency, speed, and reliability for large shipments, but it requires careful attention to weight, size, and regulatory limits.

Knowing the maximum FTL weight, pallet capacity, axle limits, and cargo distribution rules helps ensure smooth operations and avoids costly compliance issues.

By working with an experienced carrier like ULS Freight, shippers can navigate FTL freight requirements with confidence and ensure every shipment meets legal and safety standards.

FAQs

What is the FTL weight limit in kg?

For standard full truckload shipping, the FTL weight limit in kilograms typically ranges between 19000 kg and 20400 kg of cargo. This range ensures the total gross vehicle weight stays within the legal limit of 36287 kg or 80000 pounds when including the truck, trailer, fuel, and driver.

What is the full truckload weight in tons?

A full truckload can usually carry 19 to 21 metric tons of freight. The exact full truck load weight in tons depends on trailer type, axle configuration, and freight density. Dry van trailers allow the highest payload, while refrigerated trailers carry slightly less due to heavier equipment.

What is the LTL weight limit?

Less than truckload shipments generally have a weight limit of up to 15000 pounds or about 6800 kg. LTL freight is designed for smaller shipments that do not require the full capacity of a trailer and are shared with other shippers.

What is the full truckload pallet capacity?

A standard full truckload pallet capacity is 26 to 30 pallets based on 48 by 40 inch pallet dimensions. The actual number depends on pallet height, weight per pallet, and how the freight must be arranged for safe loading.

What is the FTL truck size?

The most common FTL truck size is a 53 foot dry van trailer. This trailer provides maximum flexibility for weight and volume, offering approximately 3500 to 4000 cubic feet of space. Some shipments may also use 48 foot trailers depending on route and availability.

What is the full truckload capacity?

Full truckload capacity refers to both weight and volume. In most cases, you can ship:

• Up to 20400 kg of cargo

• Up to 30 standard pallets

• Up to 4000 cubic feet of freight

This capacity makes FTL ideal for large, dense, or time sensitive shipments.

How do you know if your shipment qualifies as FTL?

Your shipment qualifies as full truckload if it weighs more than 6800 kg, requires ten or more pallets, or needs exclusive use of a trailer for security, speed, or handling reasons. Freight density and delivery urgency also play a role.

Does freight density affect FTL weight limits?

Yes, freight density directly affects how quickly you reach the weight limit. Heavy but compact cargo may reach the maximum allowable weight before filling the trailer, while lightweight freight may fill the trailer without reaching the weight limit.