Road Freight Types

Groupage

Groupage road transportation is a highly cost-effective logistics option, particularly suited for businesses looking to move small quantities of goods without the expense of a full truckload. This method pools shipments from multiple customers into one consignment, making it ideal for transporting 1 to 5 pallets. However, while groupage offers competitive pricing, it comes with slower service and longer transit times. The estimated times of arrival and departure (ETA/ETD) are not guaranteed due to the nature of transshipment, which might affect businesses requiring more precise delivery schedules. Thus, while groupage is excellent for cost savings or non-urgent shipments, it may not be the best choice for time-sensitive deliveries.

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Flowchart of trucks moving from suppliers to a central warehouse, then to grocery stores.

Illustration: Forklift loading a truck with labeled boxes on pallets, indicating four shippers.

Part Load (LTL)

Part-load road transportation strikes a balance between speed and cost, making it an attractive option for businesses with mid-sized consignments. Typically suitable for moving between 6 and 18 pallets, this service is quicker than groupage due to the absence of transshipment and fewer goods being transported in the vehicle. The estimated times of arrival and departure (ETA/ETD) are generally more accurate, although still subject to variations depending on customs and other logistics factors. While part load offers a more cost-effective solution for larger shipments that are not urgent, its reliance on other goods being transported in the same vehicle can sometimes introduce delays, which may not be ideal for those requiring very specific timing for their deliveries.

Express

Express road transportation is designed for urgent small consignments, providing the fastest and most direct service option. Utilising vans or smaller trucks, this method is perfect for time-sensitive deliveries requiring an immediate response. The main advantage of the express service is its ability to expedite shipments with more guaranteed estimated times of arrival and departure (ETA/ETD), ensuring that your goods reach their destination promptly. However, this speed and convenience come at a higher cost compared to other road freight options. Therefore, while express transportation is the best solution for critical deliveries, it may not be the most economical choice for less urgent shipments or for businesses looking to minimise shipping costs.

Illustration of a blue semi-truck with a light blue rectangular cargo trailer.

Full Truck Load (FTL)

Full Truck Load (FTL) road transportation offers a dedicated service for transporting large volumes, making it ideal for shipments that fill an entire truck. With the capacity to load up to 33 Euro pallets or 26 standard pallets, FTL provides a direct, non-stop route to the destination, which ensures that goods are handled minimally and the risk of damage is reduced. This method is particularly suited for mid-size to large consignments that require a specific ETA/ETD, offering both speed and reliability. The dedicated nature of FTL means that the entire vehicle is reserved for one shipment, providing an enhanced sense of security and exclusivity. However, the primary drawback is cost, as FTL is more expensive than other options like groupage or part load, particularly if the full capacity of the truck is not utilised. Therefore, while FTL is excellent for large, time-sensitive shipments that need tailored scheduling and high security, it may not be cost-effective for smaller or less urgent loads.

Out of Gauge

Out of Gauge (OOG) road transportation is specialised for handling shipments that exceed standard truck dimensions, typically required for oversized or irregularly shaped goods. This service ensures that large items, which cannot fit within the confines of regular trucks, are transported safely and efficiently. Planning for OOG shipments involves meticulous route assessment, securing necessary permits, and often organising escorts to manage the complexities of the journey. While OOG transport offers a vital solution for moving large items that other services cannot accommodate, it comes with several disadvantages. It generally requires several weeks’ notice to prepare, making it less flexible than standard freight options. Additionally, the logistical requirements and the need for special handling can significantly increase the cost. Therefore, while OOG is indispensable for transporting oversized items, it requires careful planning and consideration of the higher costs and extended timelines involved.

Image of a long yellow truck carrying a large white wind turbine blade.

Which service is best for you?

Transportation Method	Pros	Cons	Load Potential
Groupage	For small quantities, combines shipments for reduced costs.	Slower service, longer transit times, ETAs/ETDs not guaranteed.	1 to 5 pallets
Part Load (LTL)	Quicker than groupage, no transshipment, suitable for mid-sized consignments.	Reliance on other goods in the vehicle can introduce delays, not ideal for very specific timing.	6 to 18 pallets
Express	Fastest service for urgent shipments, guarantees ETAs/ETDs.	Not economical for less urgent shipments.	Small consignments, usually vans or smaller trucks
FTL (Full Truck Load)	Dedicated service, minimal handling, best for large shipments requiring specific timing.	More costly, not cost-effective if full capacity is not utilized.	Up to 33 Euro pallets or 26 standard pallets
Out of Gauge	Accommodates oversized or irregular items, ensures safe and efficient transport.	Requires extensive planning, higher costs, less flexibility due to permit and escort needs.	Varies, depends on the dimensions exceeding standard trucks