Groupage freight combines smaller shipments from different customers into shared transport movements. Instead of reserving an entire vehicle, a business uses part of the available capacity. Goods commonly pass through terminals where loads are consolidated and sorted for onward transport.
When groupage makes sense
It can suit well-packed commercial goods that can tolerate normal freight handling and do not need an exclusive vehicle. A regular shipment of boxed stock is often a better candidate than an unpackaged machine with delicate projections.
Shared capacity can reduce the cost compared with booking a vehicle for the same small shipment. The actual comparison depends on the route, space used, weight and service requirements.
Plan for a network journey
A groupage pallet may be collected on one vehicle, moved between terminals on another and delivered locally on a third. Packaging should therefore support lifting and handling throughout the route, not just the first collection.
Declare non-stackability and unusual handling requirements before accepting the quotation. Writing “fragile” on the wrapping does not replace physical protection.
What should you send us?
- Each pallet’s packed dimensions and gross weight.
- The goods description, package count and stackability.
- Both postcodes and the actual island, where relevant.
- Available loading equipment and site opening hours.
- The ready date and any firm delivery deadline.
Cargo Euro Hub checks the suitable service for the actual shipment. We do not apply another forwarder’s pallet-count or weight threshold as a universal rule for every carrier.
If your cargo requires a dedicated vehicle or a tightly controlled schedule, compare dedicated transport. For a step-by-step view of the network process, read how goods move in groupage freight.