Part load freight

Who is it for?

Companies with regular but low-volume shipments, and anyone sending palletised goods, boxes, machinery or spare parts.

How does it work?

We plan collection around the loading address, vehicle access and cargo ready date. Warehouse handling and preparation are arranged where needed, before transport under the agreed shipment plan.

How does your cargo travel as part load?

Part load means combining cargo that does not fill a whole vehicle with other cargo going the same way. Collection and loading points depend on the cargo address and vehicle plan. Warehouse handling and labelling are arranged where needed; main-line transport and delivery follow that plan.

Because several shipments travel in the same vehicle, the departure day is less flexible than with a vehicle dedicated to one cargo. In return, unit cost drops noticeably for small and medium shipments.

What affects the price?

Part load pricing is not a single item. It is usually a combination of these factors:

• Actual weight and volumetric weight: light but bulky cargo takes up space in the vehicle and is charged by volume.
• Loading metres: the length of the vehicle floor your cargo occupies. The number of pallets and whether they can be stacked change this value.
• Loading and delivery address, with extra distance and time by region.
• Special requirements: cargo that needs care, must remain upright or cannot be stacked.
• Whether document and customs services are included in the quote.

Preparing your cargo for part load

Part load cargo is handled at least once on the main line, so durable packaging is the most effective way to prevent damage. Where possible, prepare palletisable cargo on a sturdy pallet, wrapped in stretch film with protected corners. Each pallet or box should carry the consignee's name, address and product information in legible writing.

It is important to give the real dimensions and weight at the quotation stage. If approximate measures turn out different at loading, the price may change.

What is a CMR note and why does it matter?

In international road transport, the CMR consignment note is evidence of the transport contract and that the cargo has been taken over. Separate copies are issued for the sender, the carrier and the consignee. The type, quantity, weight and delivery address of the cargo must be written correctly in the CMR; in case of damage or shortage, noting it on the CMR at delivery prevents loss of rights.

Part load or full truckload?

Compare the two options on these points: part load is more economical for small cargo because the cost is shared, but the cargo is handled and the departure day depends on consolidation. In full truckload the cost rests on a single cargo, but you have more control over date and direct delivery. Size, value, sensitivity and delivery date of the cargo guide the choice.

When should you move to full truckload?

If your cargo fills most of a vehicle, or the delivery date is very firm, ask for a full truckload quote as well. Because part load involves consolidation and handling steps, the cost difference between the two options can narrow as the cargo approaches a full vehicle. Once the dimensions of your cargo are known, we can compare them together.

Common mistakes

Most problems in part load shipments come from the same places:

• Giving pallet dimensions or weight as estimates.
• The invoice and the packing list not matching.
• Missing telephone number and contact person of the consignee; the delivery appointment can be delayed for that reason.
• Forgetting cargo insurance. Under the CMR the carrier's liability is subject to an upper limit; if the value of your cargo is above that limit, separate insurance should be considered.