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Parcel vs. LTL Breakeven Calculator

Is it cheaper to ship parcel or LTL? Enter your weight, dimensions, and freight class and this tool estimates both, finds the breakeven weight, and recommends the cheaper mode. Industry-average rates, no signup. 2026 numbers.

Parcel wins when
Shipment < ~150 lb
Low weight, high density, small dimensions. Usually faster transit on long zones too.
LTL wins when
Pallet-sized loads
>150 lb or one+ full pallet position. Dense freight (low class) tilts further toward LTL.
Watch out for
DIM + accessorials
Parcel billed on DIM weight blows up light/bulky costs; LTL liftgate/residential adds $50-$150.
💡 Estimator, not a quote. Rates are 2026 industry averages. Your negotiated contract, NMFC specifics, and accessorials will shift the number. Use Request Freight Quote for binding pricing.

Shipment details

Parcel estimate
$—
billable weight —
LTL estimate
$—
cwt —
Recommendation
Enter your details and press Compare.
Breakeven curve
Breakeven weight: —

How the estimate is built

Parcel cost = base handling ($9) + per-pound zone rate × billable weight × pieces. Billable weight is the greater of actual weight and DIM weight (L×W×H ÷ 139, with Aug-2025 ceiling rounding applied).

LTL cost = max(minimum charge $115, weight÷100 × class-based base rate) × (1 + fuel surcharge 35%) + accessorials. Class rates are ramped: Class 50 is the cheapest per cwt; Class 500 is the most expensive.

Breakeven is solved numerically by sweeping weight from 1 lb to 5,000 lb at the same dimensions/class/zone and finding the first weight at which LTL undercuts parcel.

These rates are industry averages as of 2026 and are provided for planning only. Your negotiated UPS/FedEx contract and LTL tariff will shift the absolute numbers, but the relative curves and breakeven point are usually directionally correct.