How part load and groupage freight works

Part load freight (groupage) means moving goods that do not fill a whole vehicle together with other shippers' goods on the same truck. The shipper pays only for the space used, and the carrier earns more by filling the truck with several customers. For small and mid-sized consignments it is often cheaper than a full truck.

How it works

A carrier or forwarder collects loads from different senders. The truck may pick up at several points along the way and unload at several points. This is why part loads are usually slower than full loads, and may involve transhipment or intermediate stops. Transit time is not fixed; it depends on how the truck fills and on route planning.

How the price is formed

On part loads the price is usually based on whichever is greatest of three measures:

• Loading metres (LDM): the floor length the goods occupy. See the LDM article for the detail.
• Weight: gross weight. Many carriers convert LDM to weight and invoice the higher one; the conversion factor differs between carriers.
• Volume: for light, bulky goods (packaging, for example) volume can decide.

So two loads of equal weight can price differently. A light but non-stackable load is expensive because it takes a lot of floor. If the height allows and the goods are stackable, pallets can be stacked and the LDM drops.

Risks

• Repeated handling: if the goods are loaded and unloaded several times, the chance of damage rises. Wrap pallets firmly and use corner protectors and stretch film.
• Delay: the truck may wait to fill, or stop along the way because of other loads.
• Wrong declaration: if weight or dimensions are understated, the carrier asks for the difference at loading or refuses the load.
• Liability: in mixed loads it is hard to trace where damage came from. Check the goods on delivery and write reservations on the consignment note. For the rules in international transport, see the article on CMR.
• Incompatible goods: food and chemicals on the same truck, for example, are restricted; dangerous goods (ADR) follow separate rules.

What a listing must state

1. Number, type and size of pallets: EUR or industrial; length, width, height.
2. Total gross weight and weight per pallet.
3. LDM: calculate it and write it.
4. Stackability: can the pallets be stacked?
5. Loading and unloading method: ramp, forklift, side loading; is an appointment needed?
6. Date window: flexible or fixed.
7. Special conditions: fragile, temperature controlled, ADR.

When this information is missing, the carrier either quotes high or does not quote. For pallet standards see the article on pallet types.

Part loads on Order And Load

On the load board, spot listings, auctions and part loads appear in the same place. Entering a price is not mandatory; you can collect offers. Each carrier sees only its own offer and rank, never a competitor's price. For terms, see the Freight Glossary.