Power only and full truckload (FTL) both move freight over the highway, but they solve different equipment problems. Power only means you supply the trailer and hire a tractor. Full truckload usually means the carrier supplies tractor and trailer. Choosing the wrong model wastes time: either you wait for a carrier van you did not need, or you request power only without a trailer ready to hook.

This guide compares the two approaches for shippers and fleet managers working with Logi Transports LLC. Use it before you request a quote so our team markets the correct product. Service overviews live on power only trucking; booking steps are in how to get a power only quote.

Power only and full truckload solve different equipment needs. Compare trailer ownership, readiness, and cost before booking.

Side-by-Side Differences

• Trailer ownership: Power only—yours (or your customer’s/lessor’s). FTL—typically the carrier’s.
• Best when: Power only—trailer already staged. FTL—you need cube and power together.
• Branding and telematics: Power only keeps your trailer systems in play. FTL follows carrier equipment.
• Empty repositioning: Power only is built for moving your empties. FTL empties are the carrier’s problem, not your pool.
• Drop and hook: Both can support it; power only drop-and-hook centers on your trailer pool—see drop and hook.

When Power Only Is the Better Choice

Choose power only if loaded trailers are sealed and waiting, if you must relocate empties between your facilities, or if private fleet power is short while trailers remain available. Dry van and flatbed variants are covered on dry van power only and flatbed power only. Trailer-only imbalance problems are addressed under trailer relocation and empty trailer moves.

Power only also fits when compliance or customer contracts require specific trailer specs you already own—cleanliness standards, liftgates you control, or specialized decks.

When Full Truckload Fits Better

Choose FTL when freight is loose at the dock and you need the carrier to provide a trailer for loading, when you do not want responsibility for trailer maintenance on that lane, or when you need a one-way move without caring which trailer number arrives. If you ask for power only but have no trailer, carriers cannot complete the hook—request FTL instead through Logi’s standard brokerage channels at logitransports.com.

Cost and Planning Considerations

Power only rates reflect tractor time, distance, and market capacity—not trailer rental from the carrier. You still carry trailer ownership costs separately. FTL rates bundle tractor and trailer into the line haul. Neither model is universally cheaper; the right choice is the one that matches assets you already have on the ground.

Detention and access rules apply to both. Power only adds trailer readiness as a critical path item: a tractor waiting on a trailer with flat tires is billable delay. Use the shipper checklist to avoid that outcome.

Decision Checklist

• Do I have a specific trailer number ready to hook? If yes, lean power only.
• Do I need the carrier to show up with an empty trailer to load? If yes, lean FTL.
• Is the goal pool balancing rather than moving commodity? Lean power only empty relocate.
• Is the trailer a specialty deck I must control? Lean power only.

Still unsure? Call (864) 791-5644 and describe the dock situation. Coverage for power only lanes is summarized on coverage; company background on about.

Logi Transports LLC (MC-1636889, USDOT 4230991) will quote the model that fits. Request a free quote or email quotes@logitransports.com with a clear note: “power only” or “need carrier trailer.”