HIT THE ROAD JACK…. AND DON’t YOU COME BACK NO MORE, NO MORE, NO MORE, NO More
ROAD FREIGHT SOLUTIONS
Freight 365 offer complete Road Freight Import & Export Solutions Globally. Being proud members of the WCA (World Cargo Alliance) and GLA (Global Logistics Alliance) gives us access to more than 30,000 verified agents globally, giving us the ability to quote competitively for Groupage, Vehicle Share and Dedicated services, without sacrificing service.
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WHAT HAPPENS WITH MY ROAD FREIGHT?
This page contains all the information you need to prepare for your road freight quote and booking. It also explains potential risks or challenges that can arise with road freight cargo and offers guidance on effective planning to minimise these risks.
For more information, contact the team, details via the button below.
WHERE DO I START?
The 5 key pieces of information that your forwarder will require to provide an accurate quote are:
The Origin of the Cargo, The Dimensions of your Shipment, the Incoterms on which you will be Shipping, The Final Destination and the Deadline for Delivery
Origin of Cargo
It’s crucial to provide accurate addresses and details about any restrictions, such as preferred loading times, forklift or lifting equipment requirements, restricted access, or potential challenges the haulier may face when collecting your cargo.
If these details are inaccurate or any restrictions are not communicated, you may face additional costs, such as wasted journey & storage fees, and encounter possible lengthy delays, which could impact the rest of your cargo’s journey.
The Dimensions
Provide extremely accurate measurements, as hauliers are quick to capitalise on any potential discrepancies. If the information you provide is even slightly wrong, it can give the carrier an opportunity to impose additional charges or delay your cargo.
Once the haulier has your cargo, your options are limited, and you may have no choice but to pay any additional charges. To avoid this, ensure you provide accurate measurements and weights, including the pallet or packaging.
The Incoterms
International Commercial Terms, commonly known as Incoterms, define the rules and conditions that buyers and sellers use in global trade. These terms are internationally recognised and were developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
These terms help determine the costs of your shipment and clarify who is responsible for covering them. They also specify the point at which the risk transfers during each stage of your shipment. Ask for our Incoterms 2020 guide.
The Final Destination
It is essential to provide precise addresses and any relevant restrictions, including preferred delivery times, requirements for forklifts or other lifting equipment, access limitations, or potential challenges the haulier might face when delivering your cargo.
If these details are incorrect or any restrictions are not explained, you could incur additional charges or possible delays, this could mean your cargo incurring warehousing, wasted journey or storage fees, along with delays.
The Deadline
The most crucial factor in providing an accurate quote for the most cost-effective service is the deadline. A good Forwarder will be familiar with groupage, vehicle share and dedicated services for freight movements, knowing the deadline is essential to quote suitable services.
If we have plenty of time, we can provide quotes for more cost-effective services while still ensuring excellent service. However, urgent cargo will need to be shipped on a dedicated service to meet tighter deadlines.
Why Choose Road Freight?
Flexibility and Accessibility
Road freight offers unrivalled flexibility when it comes to door-to-door deliveries. Whether you’re shipping locally, or across international borders that can be accessed wholly by road, or when the route is predominantly by land accompanied by a short sea ferry, road freight the best choice for cost and speed.
Cost-Effective for European Deliveries
Road freight is a cost-efficient solution for European, regional and domestic shipments. With options like groupage (LTL) and full truckloads (FTL), businesses can optimise costs based on the size of their shipment. This makes it ideal for businesses of all sizes looking to streamline their logistics.
Real-Time Tracking and Reliability
Advances in technology allow for real-time tracking of goods via GPS systems, providing businesses with greater transparency and control over their shipments. Road freight offers dependable, predictable transit times for regular shipments, helping businesses maintain a reliable supply chain.
ORIGINS, DESTINATIONS & COMMODITIES
Even if you, your customer, or your supplier have a warehouse in a beautiful location, how easy is it to access? More importantly, how feasible is it for a 44-ton articulated truck? It’s crucial to inform your Freight Forwarder about any restrictions or access challenges the haulier might face on the way to collect or deliver the goods for both FTL and groupage shipments.
If the haulier is not informed of any restrictions, it could result in delayed collections/deliveries, additional charges, warehousing or storage fees, potential loss or damage to goods, and dissatisfied customers.
For example, if you have a shipment of 2 pallets, each no larger than 1.5 CBM and weighing under 300 kg, coming from Holland, it could easily be delivered in a van. However, if your warehouse is located at the end of a narrow country lane that isn’t suitable for a large truck, assuming the cargo will arrive in an appropriate vehicle without informing us of these restrictions could be problematic. Often, shipments are consolidated onto articulated trucks for groupage services, carrying multiple deliveries in the area to maximise efficiency, reduce carbon footprint, and offer the best pricing. If the haulier encounters difficulties accessing your location, you could incur costs for a wasted journey, a return trip to the haulier’s distribution warehouse, storage fees (if the warehouse cannot reschedule the delivery promptly), and charges for unloading and reloading. Avoid these issues by communicating any access restrictions in advance. If your shipment is an FTL, will this be able to be delivered on the same vehicle? Or will the shipment need to be de-vanned at a warehouse close to port or destination, then loaded on to smaller vehicles to complete the shipment?
If you provide accurate information about access restrictions, your Freight Forwarder can arrange for your goods to be delivered to a nearby distribution warehouse, where a smaller vehicle can then complete the delivery to your location. This approach maintains cost-effectiveness and ensures proper delivery. There is always a solution to a problem, if you know what the problem is!
If you have any concerns about potential delivery or collection restrictions, please contact our team via the button below. Our experts will evaluate the route to your facility and provide the appropriate advice.
Do you, your customer, or your supplier have the necessary equipment for loading and unloading the cargo? For example, is there a forklift at the destination, or is a tail lift required? If the packaging is oversized, a tail lift might not suffice, and a Hiab may be needed. Providing this information is crucial for obtaining accurate quotes and ensuring smooth logistics.
If such details are not provided during the enquiry or booking process, it may lead to delays and additional charges. Your Freight Forwarder should be knowledgeable about the restrictions of different vehicle types and advise accordingly. For instance, if your package is 2.1 metres long and your customer lacks the necessary equipment, a tail lift alone will not be sufficient due to health and safety regulations. A tail lift is typically limited to loads up to 2 metres long and 1000kgs, so alternative methods must be considered.
If you are unsure about equipment needed for loading/unloading, just contact one of the team via the button below.
Do you, your customer, or your supplier have preferred or strict times for collection or delivery? Is your warehouse operational 24/7? Typically, deliveries are made during local working hours, from 9 am to 5 pm, but you can specify a time and date outside these hours if needed. Note that such requests may incur additional charges. Freight-365 are experienced when arranging schedules using customers own online portals to adhere with specific SOPs.
Do you prefer AM or PM collection/delivery slots? Does your warehouse team have preferred delivery days or reduced hours on specific days? Are there seasonal holidays to consider, such as the European Summer Shutdown in August? Will your deliveries need to be booked in using an online portal? Freight-365 can tailor options to meet your specific needs, but we need to be informed of these details in advance.
If you have any timing preferences or specific delivery requirements, please ensure your Freight Forwarder is aware so they can arrange the services accordingly.
Being aware of your warehouse storage capacity and the frequency of deliveries that can be accepted on the same day can help you improve efficiency whilst remaining cost effective. Ensure you inform your Freight Forwarder about this information especially when dealing with multiple or large shipments. Our expertise in Warehousing and Distribution allows us to provide efficient solutions, thanks to our access to facilities in all major port locations globally.
Knowing these details in advance benefits both cost management and operational efficiency. For instance, if you have a large stock order, such as 200 pallets of goods ready in Germany, and you book it all at once, it will likely arrive simultaneously or within a short timeframe if split across multiple trucks. Freight-365 can organise staggered deliveries upon arrival or select alternative services to avoid warehousing or storage fees. We can arrange short-term storage or rework your cargo to meet specific requirements and deliver it directly to your clients at multiple locations. Additionally, we can handle carton labelling and documentation removal to protect your supplier information, ensuring your shipment arrives in optimal condition.
If you want to know more or discuss the options for your shipment, we can arrange all of this for you, feel free to contact one of our expert team via the button below.
For international shipping, you must provide a commodity code (HS code) to classify your goods. This code, which will be declared on your customs entry, determines the rate of duty and import VAT. It’s essential to note that while your Freight Forwarder can assist and advise on the process, they cannot provide the commodity code. If an incorrect code leads to issues, the responsibility will fall on you.
For guidance on finding the correct commodity code, visit the Trade Tariff Portal on the government’s website: Trade Tariff Portal.
Additionally, you should inform your Freight Forwarder if your goods are classified as ‘Awkward Cargo.’ Key considerations include:
Temperature Requirements: Does the cargo need refrigeration or an ambient temperature range?
Dangerous Goods (DG): Is the cargo classified as dangerous and does it require a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)?
Oversized Cargo: Is the cargo oversized or OOG (Out of Gauge)? If your shipment cannot be packed on a pallet measuring 120x100cms, or 120x80cms (LxW) it could be considered “Oversized”. Equally, if your cargo cannot fit inside the trailer due to height it could be considered “oversized” and require some extra attention to move it safely.
Special Categories: Are you shipping tropical woods or pharmaceutical products requiring temperature-controlled shipping or cryostorage or live products such as fish or plants?
Providing this information is crucial for customs clearance and arranging your shipment effectively.
If you are unsure about the classification of your cargo for international imports and exports, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Operations Experts for assistance.
IS IT FTL OR LTL (Groupage)?
It’s essential to determine whether your shipment should be classified as Groupage (LTL) or a Full Trailer Load (FTL). If you’re only sending a few pallets, groupage is typically the preferred option. But what if your cargo contains Dangerous Goods (DG)? For DG groupage shipments, you might encounter delays, as all DG cargo must be pre-approved and accepted by the haulier. You’ll also need to consider compatibility issues with other goods that might be loaded in the same trailer, which can be both costly and time-consuming. In such scenarios, opting for an FTL might be a more efficient choice. When time is a key factor, FTL should be seriously considered, even if you’re only transporting a small volume of DG by road.
Additionally, as the number of pallets you’re shipping increases, an FTL or other dedicated transport options may become more cost-effective and faster. It’s important to understand the different vehicle types available for dedicated services and their pallet capacities. These vehicles range from smaller transit vans to larger articulated vehicles.
Another important factor is the urgency of your shipment. This will help your Freight Forwarder suggest the most suitable service. For European road transport, typical timeframes are as follows:
GROUPAGE
6-10 days door to door depending on origin and destination
Groupage services can include up to 52 different shipments delivered to multiple locations. Once collected, your cargo may wait in a local warehouse until other shipments fill the trailer, which is why this service is cost-effective but also takes the longest.
VEHICLE SHARE
3-6 days door to door depending on origin and destination
A middle ground between Groupage and Dedicated services, Vehicle Share involves transporting limited quantities of cargo for multiple customers (usually 2-3 bookings), resulting in shorter transit times and lower costs compared to Dedicated services.
DEDICATED
1-3 days door to door depending on origin and destination
Dedicated vehicles are solely for your use, with the vehicle moving only between your origin and destination. It’s the most expensive but also the fastest road freight option. It is also the option with the least amount of factors that could potentially delay your shipment.
At Freight-365, we’re here to guide you through these decisions. Contact our dedicated team to utilise our load planning software before organising palletisation with your shipper. This tool helps maximise available space and can save companies thousands of pounds by recommending the ideal vehicle for their transportation needs.
dimensions (DIMS) & PACKAGING
GROUPAGE ROAD FREIGHT
Road freight costs are typically calculated based on several key factors that affect the space and weight your cargo occupies in a vehicle. These include loading metres, volumetric weight, actual weight and pallet spaces. Here’s an overview of each, along with examples:
1. Loading Meters (LDM)
Loading meters refer to the amount of space your cargo occupies along the length of a trailers available load space. One loading metre is the equivalent of 1 metre of the truck’s floor space lengthwise and including the full width + height. It’s particularly useful for large or awkwardly shaped items that are not able to have cargo loaded next to it, or on top.
Example:
A standard articulated truck is 13.6m long. If your shipment occupies 2.0m of that length and is 1.4m wide and is shaped so other cargo cannot be loaded on top safely then you can consider the best way to price is by using “LDM”, in this example your cargo takes up 2 loading metres (LDM). If the cost per loading meter is £200, the total cost would be 2 LDM x £200 = £400.
2. Volumetric Weight
Volumetric weight (or dimensional weight) takes into account the space your cargo occupies in relation to its actual weight. Freight Forwarders use a conversion factor to calculate volumetric weight, allowing them to charge based on the higher of the actual weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is greater. The standard conversion rate for road freight is usually 1 cubic meter (CBM) = 333 kg.
Formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) =
Length (cm) x Width (cm) x Height (cm)
6000
Example:
If you have a shipment with dimensions 120 cm x 100 cm x 100 cm, the volumetric weight would be:
120cm (L) x 100cm (W) 100cm (H)
6000
= 200kg
If the actual weight of your shipment is only 150 kg, you would be charged based on the 200 kg volumetric weight, as it’s higher.
3. Actual Weight
This is the straightforward weight of your shipment as measured on a scale. Freight companies will charge by actual weight if it exceeds the volumetric weight. Heavier goods that are dense and compact usually fall under this category.
Example:
If your cargo weighs 500 kg and occupies only 1 cubic meter of space, you will be charged based on the actual weight because 500 kg is higher than the calculated volumetric weight of 333 kg for 1 CBM.
4. Pallet Space
Pallet space is another common way to calculate road freight costs, especially for standard shipments. Palletised freight is easy to load and unload, and rates are often based on the number of standard pallets in your shipment. A standard UK pallet is 120x100cms (LxW), a standard EUR pallet is 120x80cms (LxW), to be considered a standard pallet, it must also be stackable.
Example:
If a trailer can fit 26 standard pallets, and your shipment consists of 10 pallets, you would pay for the proportion of the trailer used, i.e., 10/26 of the total cost. If the cost to hire a full trailer is £1300, then you would pay £500 for the 10 pallets.
Conclusion:
When planning road freight, it’s essential to understand these cost factors to make informed decisions about the most efficient and cost-effective way to transport your goods. Whether it’s based on loading meters, volumetric weight, actual weight or pallet spaces, Freight-365 can help you find the right solution tailored to your shipment’s specific needs.
Key Points to Remember:
Loading meters (LDM): Ideal for long, bulky items.
Volumetric weight: Important for light but bulky goods.
Actual weight: Best for dense, heavy shipments.
Pallet space: Common for palletised goods.
At Freight-365, we offer customised solutions based on your specific shipping needs. Contact us today to learn how we can optimise your road freight logistics!
How Do I Calculate My Pallet’s CBM?
To calculate the CBM of a pallet, use the formula: CBM=Length (m)×Width (m)×Height (m)
For a pallet measuring 120 cm (L) x 100 cm (W) x 135 cm (H): CBM=1.20×1.00×1.35 = 1.62 CBM
The final spec would be 1 pallet at 1.62CBM
Alternatively, use our online calculator by entering your pallet’s dimensions and weight for an accurate result.
For accurate road freight costs, it’s essential to provide the following information:
Length x Width x Height in metres
Total Gross Weight including packaging, pallets, or crates
When planning road freight, it’s important to consider the vehicle size and loading space, as well as any potential height or weight restrictions. For example, standard trailers can accommodate up to 2.7 meters in height, while some smaller vehicles may have lower height limits. Make sure your cargo fits within these dimensions to avoid delays or additional handling charges.
For example, if you are shipping 20 boxes (each 40 cm x 40 cm x 40 cm) on a standard UK pallet, we recommend stacking up to 18 boxes. The final wrapped pallet dimensions should be approximately 120 cm (L) x 100 cm (W) x 135 cm (H), which fits comfortably in most road freight vehicles and be top stowable.
The weight of your shipment plays a critical role in road freight due to vehicle capacity limitations. If your cargo is extremely heavy but doesn’t occupy much space, or if it takes up a large volume but is lightweight, you may need to book a dedicated vehicle to ensure safe and efficient transport.
We’ve outlined the most common types of vans and trailers, including their pallet, volume, and payload capacities. Please note that internal dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, so this information should be used as a general guide.
3.5 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 3.66 m x 2.00 m x 1.75 m
Pallet Capacity: 6 Euro pallets / 6 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 12 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 1,600 kg
7.5 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 5.49 m x 2.40 m x 2.20 m
Pallet Capacity: 12 Euro pallets / 10 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 29 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 3,200 kg
18 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.33 m x 2.54 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 18 Euro pallets / 16 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 52 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 10,000 kg
26 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 9.15 m x 2.54 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 21 Euro pallets / 18 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 60 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 15,500 kg
44 Ton Artic & Trailer
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.5 m x 2.48 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 33 Euro pallets / 26 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 87 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 28,000 kg
44 Ton Artic & Mega Trailer
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.5 m x 2.48 m x 3.00 m
Pallet Capacity: 33 Euro pallets / 26 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 100 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 28,000 kg
Proper packaging is essential for road freight to ensure that your cargo arrives safely, especially since it may be transferred between several vehicles and handled multiple times during its journey. Ensure your goods are securely packed in pallets, crates, or appropriate wrapping to prevent damage, theft, or pilferage. Inadequate packaging could lead to repacking costs, delays, product loss, and voided insurance coverage.
Label your goods clearly, especially if they are fragile or require specific handling. While DIY packaging may seem economical, professional packing often prevents costly damage. Freight-365 works with trusted global packaging partners to guarantee the safety of your cargo.
Determining whether your goods are stackable can have a significant impact on your road freight costs. Freight is typically charged based on the greater of two factors: the weight of your shipment or the space it occupies in the truck. Stackability directly affects how efficiently space is used, which can help reduce costs.
Stackable vs. Non-Stackable
Non-Stack
Cargo that cannot have other items stacked on top. Clearly state this to avoid confusion and potential mishandling. Consider all quotes are for stackable cargo unless specified otherwise.
Stackable
Cargo that can have items stacked on top. This often results in lower shipping costs but may lead to damage if not handled carefully, or packaging is not suitable.
Top Stow
Cargo that can be loaded on top of other cargo but cannot have items stacked above it. This option may offer better rates but carries risk, because it’s a request and will depend on compatibility of other cargo during the loading process.
In summary, stackable cargo tends to be more cost-effective, as it maximises available space. Proper packaging is key to ensuring your shipment is stackable and safely transported, helping you save on shipping costs.
If you need assistance in calculating your cargo’s dimensions or determining the best packaging solution, contact our team at Freight-365 for expert advice.
FTL ROAD FREIGHT
In FTL (Full Truckload) road freight, shipping costs are calculated based on the full use of a vehicle’s capacity. Unlike LTL (Less Than Truckload) or groupage services, where multiple shipments share space, FTL services dedicate the entire truck to your shipment. Several key factors influence the cost, including the vehicle’s loading capacity, volumetric weight, and actual weight of your cargo. Here’s an overview of each factor, along with relevant examples:
1. Loading Meters (LDM)
Loading meters refer to the length of the truck floor that your cargo occupies. In FTL shipments, your cargo will typically take up the full trailer or be arranged to fully utilise the available space. Even for long or bulky items, you are paying for the entire truck, so cost-efficiency is maximised by how well the space is utilised.
Example:
A standard trailer is 13.6 meters long. Even if your cargo takes up 6 meters of floor space, you’re still paying for the full 13.6 meters in FTL. This is why understanding how much of the truck’s length your cargo occupies is crucial for efficient planning.
2. Volumetric Weight
Volumetric weight (or dimensional weight) accounts for the space your cargo occupies relative to its actual weight. In FTL, while you have full control over the truck’s space, maximising the volume is still important for cost-efficiency, especially for bulky, lightweight goods. Each vehicle used will have a maximum payload capacity which must be adhered to because you still need to comply with legal weight limits.
Example:
You may have only a small item in terms of volume compared to the size of the trailer, however if it weighs 24,000kgs you will still need to move it using a dedicated articulated trailer.
3. Actual Weight
Actual weight is the measured weight of your shipment. In FTL freight, the vehicle payload capacity must be considered to ensure it isn’t exceeded, especially for heavy cargo. Since you’re paying for the full truck, your costs are less influenced by weight alone but rather by how efficiently the truck is loaded.
Example:
If your cargo weighs 10,000kgs and occupies 10CBM, you should select the relevant size vehicle so the cost-effectiveness depends on utilising the full weight and volume capacity of the selected truck.
4. Full Trailer Pallet Capacity
In FTL, pallet space is another critical factor for calculating freight costs. A standard 13.6m trailer can fit up to 26 UK Standard Pallets or 33 Euro Pallets (floor space). The goal is to maximise space by fitting as many pallets as possible.
Example:
If your shipment consists of 20 UK Standard Pallets, you would use most of the truck’s capacity. Since you’re paying for the full truck, it’s essential to optimise how the pallets are loaded to maximise value. You could add more cargo and not increase the cost.
Conclusion:
In FTL road freight, understanding how to fully utilise the available truck space—whether by loading meters, volumetric weight, or pallet space—is key to achieving cost efficiency. At Freight-365, we can help you optimise your truckload logistics to ensure your cargo is transported in the most efficient and cost-effective way.
How Do I Calculate My Pallet’s CBM?
To calculate the CBM of a pallet, use the formula: CBM=Length (m)×Width (m)×Height (m)
Example:
For a pallet measuring 120 cm (L) x 100 cm (W) x 135 cm (H):
CBM = 1.20 x 1.00 x 1.35 = 1.62 CBM
This means your pallet occupies 1.62 cubic meters of the truck’s space. However, it’s also important to consider the weight of your pallet. Depending on whether the truck’s capacity is limited by space (CBM) or weight (Total Gross Weight – TGW), your transport requirements may differ.
For a 3.5-ton van with a maximum capacity of 12 CBM or a TGW of 1,600 kg (including pallet weight):
If each pallet measures 1.62 CBM, you could load a maximum of 7 pallets, assuming optimal arrangement. But, if each pallet has a TGW of 400 kg, the maximum number of pallets would be reduced to 4 due to the weight limit.
Use our payload calculator below for an accurate calculation. Simply enter your pallet’s dimensions and weight for quick results.
For accurate road freight costs, it’s essential to provide the following information:
Length x Width x Height in metres
Total Gross Weight including packaging, pallets, or crates
FTL services rely on ensuring your cargo fits efficiently within the available vehicle space, so it’s essential to consider vehicle dimensions and potential restrictions. Standard trailers can typically accommodate up to 2.7 meters in height, while other vehicles may have different size limits.
Example:
If shipping 20 boxes (each 40 cm x 40 cm x 40 cm) stacked on a UK pallet, you can stack up to 18 boxes comfortably. The final pallet dimensions would be 120 cm (L) x 100 cm (W) x 135 cm (H), fitting neatly into a standard trailer.
The weight of your shipment is a critical factor for FTL road freight, as it must stay within the vehicle’s payload capacity. Depending on the size and weight of your cargo, different vehicle types may be required.
Common Vehicle Types and Capacities:
3.5 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 3.66 m x 2.00 m x 1.75 m
Pallet Capacity: 6 Euro pallets / 6 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 12 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 1,600 kg
7.5 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 5.49 m x 2.40 m x 2.20 m
Pallet Capacity: 12 Euro pallets / 10 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 29 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 3,200 kg
18 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.33 m x 2.54 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 18 Euro pallets / 16 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 52 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 10,000 kg
26 Ton Van
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 9.15 m x 2.54 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 21 Euro pallets / 18 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 60 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 15,500 kg
44 Ton Artic & Trailer
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.5 m x 2.48 m x 2.60 m
Pallet Capacity: 33 Euro pallets / 26 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 87 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 28,000 kg
44 Ton Artic & Mega Trailer
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.5 m x 2.48 m x 3.00 m
Pallet Capacity: 33 Euro pallets / 26 UK Standard pallets
Volume Capacity: 100 cubic meters
Payload Capacity: 28,000 kg
Proper packaging is essential for FTL shipments to ensure that your cargo arrives intact and efficiently uses the truck’s space. Whether palletised, crated, or wrapped, secure packaging prevents damage, theft, or pilferage during transit. Poor packaging can lead to additional costs and delays, and may invalidate your insurance.
Clearly mark your cargo, especially if fragile or requiring specific handling instructions. Freight-365 partners with professional global packaging services to ensure your goods are safely packed and transported.
The stackability of your cargo can influence the cost of your FTL shipment. While you are paying for the entire truck, stackable cargo allows for more efficient use of space, making it easier to maximise the truck’s payload.
Stackable Cargo
Goods that can have items stacked on top can help optimise the use of truck space.
Non-Stackable Cargo
Items that cannot have anything stacked on top should be clearly marked. This affects how the cargo is arranged and can limit space utilisation.
In FTL freight, proper packaging and loading maximise your truck’s capacity, ensuring efficient and cost-effective transport. We have created load planning software to ensure you are being quoted the correct vehicle for your cargo movement and ensuring you maximise every shipment.
At Freight-365, we’re here to help you make the most of your FTL road freight shipments. Contact us today to optimise your logistics and reduce shipping costs!
INCOTERMS
What are Incoterms?
Incoterms® (International Commercial Terms) are a set of standardized rules developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international trade. These rules clarify who is responsible for various aspects of the shipping process, including transportation, insurance, and customs duties, as well as when the risk of loss or damage to the goods transfers from the seller to the buyer.
Using Incoterms® is essential in international trade because they provide a common language that reduces the potential for misunderstandings and disputes between trading partners. By clearly outlining the obligations of each party, Incoterms® help ensure that all aspects of the shipping process are understood and agreed upon, from the point of origin to the final destination. This standardisation is crucial for smooth and efficient global trade, as it helps businesses manage risks, allocate costs accurately, and fulfil contractual obligations effectively.
Whether you’re dealing with the purchase of goods, arranging transportation, or handling customs procedures, Incoterms® offer a clear and reliable framework that simplifies international transactions and provides peace of mind for all parties involved.
The seller makes the goods available at their premises, or at another named place. This term places the maximum obligation on the buyer and minimum obligations on the seller. The Ex Works term is often used while making an initial quotation for the sale of goods without any costs included.
EXW means that a buyer incurs the risks for bringing the goods to their final destination. Either the seller does not load the goods on collecting vehicles and does not clear them for export, or if the seller does load the goods, they do so at buyer’s risk and cost. If the parties agree that the seller should be responsible for the loading of the goods on departure and to bear the risk and all costs of such loading, this must be made clear by adding explicit wording to this effect in the contract of sale.
There is no obligation for the seller to make a contract of carriage, but there is also no obligation for the buyer to arrange one either – the buyer may sell the goods on to their own customer for collection from the original seller’s warehouse. However, in common practice the buyer arranges the collection of the freight from the designated location, and is responsible for clearing the goods through Customs. The buyer is also responsible for completing all the export documentation, although the seller does have an obligation to obtain information and documents at the buyer’s request and cost.
These documentary requirements may result in two principal issues.
Firstly, the stipulation for the buyer to complete the export declaration can be an issue in certain jurisdictions (not least the European Union) where the customs regulations require the declarant to be either an individual or corporation resident within the jurisdiction. If the buyer is based outside of the customs jurisdiction they will be unable to clear the goods for export, meaning that the goods may be declared in the name of the seller by the buyer, even though the export formalities are the buyer’s responsibility under the EXW term.
Secondly, most jurisdictions require companies to provide proof of export for tax purposes. In an EXW shipment, the buyer is under no obligation to provide such proof to the seller, or indeed to even export the goods. In a customs jurisdiction such as the European Union, this would leave the seller liable to a sales tax bill as if the goods were sold to a domestic customer. It is therefore of utmost importance that these matters are discussed with the buyer before the contract is agreed. It may well be that another Incoterm, such as FCA seller’s premises, may be more suitable, since this puts the onus for declaring the goods for export onto the seller, which provides for more control over the export process.
FCA can have two different meanings, each with varying levels of risk and cost for the buyer and seller. FCA (a) is used when the seller delivers the goods, cleared for export, at a named place which is their own premises.FCA (b) is used when the seller delivers the goods, cleared for export, at a named place which is not their premises. In both instances, the goods can be delivered to a carrier nominated by the buyer, or to another party nominated by the buyer.
In many respects this Incoterm has replaced FOB in modern usage, although the critical point at which the risk passes moves from loading aboard the vessel to the named place. The chosen place of delivery affects the obligations of loading and unloading the goods at that place.
If delivery occurs at the seller’s premises, or at any other location that is under the seller’s control, the seller is responsible for loading the goods on to the buyer’s carrier. However, if delivery occurs at any other place, the seller is deemed to have delivered the goods once their transport has arrived at the named place; the buyer is responsible for both unloading the goods and loading them onto their own carrier.
Specific rules for sea and inland waterway transport
The seller delivers when the goods are placed alongside the vessel (e.g., on a quay or a barge) nominated by the buyer at the named port of shipment. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods passes when the goods are alongside the ship, and the buyer takes on responsibility for all costs from that moment onwards.
Specific rules for sea and inland waterway transport
The seller delivers the goods on board the vessel nominated by the buyer at the named port of shipment or procures the goods already so delivered. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods passes when the goods are on board the vessel, and the buyer takes on responsibility for all costs from that moment onwards.
Specific rules for sea and inland waterway transport
The seller delivers the goods on board the vessel. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods passes when the goods are on board the vessel.The seller must contract for and pay the costs and freight necessary to bring the goods to the named port of destination.
Specific rules for sea and inland waterway transport
The same as CFR with the addition that the seller must also obtain minimum insurance cover against the buyer’s risk of loss of or damage to the goods during the carriage.
CPT replaces the C&F (cost and freight) and CFR terms for all shipping modes outside of non-containerized seafreight.
Under CPT the seller pays for the carriage of goods up to the named place of destination.
However, the goods are considered to be delivered when the goods have been handed over to the first or main carrier, so that the risk transfers to buyer upon handing goods over to that carrier at the place of shipment in the country of Export.
The seller is responsible for origin costs including export clearance and freight costs for carriage to the named place of destination (either the final destination such as the buyer’s facilities or a port of destination. This has to be agreed to by seller and buyer, however).
If the buyer requires the seller to obtain insurance, the Incoterm CIP should be considered instead.
Similar to CPT with the exceptionthat the seller is required to obtain minimum insurance for the goods while in transit.
The seller is deemed to have delivered when the goods are placed at the disposal of the buyer on the arriving means of transport and ready for unloading at the named place of destination.
Under DAP terms, the risk passes from seller to buyer from the point of destination mentioned in the contract of delivery.
Once goods are ready for shipment, the necessary packing is carried out by the seller at their own cost, so that the goods reach their final destination safely. All necessary legal formalities in the exporting country are completed by the seller at their own cost and risk to clear the goods for export.
After arrival of the goods in the country of destination, the customs clearance in the importing country needs to be completed by the buyer, e.g. import permit, documents required by customs, etc., including all customs duties and taxes.
Under DAP terms, all carriage expenses with any terminal expenses are paid by seller up to the agreed destination point. The necessary unloading cost at final destination has to be borne by buyer under DAP terms.
This Incoterm requires that the seller delivers the goods, unloaded, at the named place. The seller covers all the costs of transport (export fees, carriage, unloading from main carrier at destinationport and destination port charges) and assumes all risk until arrival at the destination place.
The seller is responsible for delivering the goods to the named place in the country of the buyer, and pays all costs in bringing the goods to the destination including import duties and taxes. The seller is not responsible for unloading. This term is often used in place of the non-Incoterm “Free In Store (FIS)”. This term places the maximum obligations on the seller and minimum obligations on the buyer. No risk or responsibility is transferred to the buyer until delivery of the goods at the named place of destination.
The most important consideration for DDP terms is that the seller is responsible for clearing the goods through customs in the buyer’s country, including both paying the duties and taxes, and obtaining the necessary authorizations and registrations from the authorities in that country. Unless the rules and regulations in the buyer’s country are very well understood, DDP terms can be a very big risk both in terms of delays and in unforeseen extra costs, and should be used with caution.
Please find a downloadable chart below for Incoterms, explaining costs and responsibility
THE DEADLINE!
It’s all about the service. Understanding and communicating your delivery deadlines is crucial. It allows your Freight Forwarder to tailor their services and provide accurate quotes based on your needs. For instance:
Urgent Shipments: If you need 10 pallets from Germany and have a two-day deadline, groupage services would not be feasible for LTL shipments due to its slower transit time and a direct service would be the only option. There could be the possibility that a vehicle share rate would reach your customer or your warehouse on time, but a good Freight Forwarder would not guarantee this and recommend dedicated.
Flexible Timelines: In comparison, if you are moving the same 10 pallets from Germany and have 2 weeks to deliver at destination, your Freight Forwarder can select more cost-effective services which may transit multiple hubs, but will arrive within the specified time frame and with an economical cost.
Every quote should align with your deadline. It helps manage expectations regarding cost and service quality.
Working with a competent freight forwarder can minimise delays, even with slower services. Here’s how:
Service Reliability: Groupage offers competitive pricing but is the least reliable in terms of delivery timing, often allowing for a one-week grace period. However, Freight-365 collaborates with dependable hauliers to ensure timely service.
Handling Delays: Vehicle breakdowns or delays are inevitable, but keeping your Freight Forwarder informed allows them to quickly arrange alternative solutions and manage any disruptions.
There are several factors along your shipments journey that can cause delays, some of which can be mitigated, but others remain unforeseeable, but there is opportunity for issues at each step, the steps of your Road Freight Cargo’s journey are as below:
With collection, what can go wrong and what can i do to reduce the risks?
Vehicle Capacity Issues: Ensure accurate cargo dimensions and weight to prevent size-related delays.
Vehicle Suitability: Confirm loading requirements (e.g., tail lift) and inform your Freight Forwarder about any special needs.
Late Delivery to Warehouse: Plan ahead during peak periods to avoid delays.
Weight/Dimension Discrepancies: Accurate data is critical to avoid additional charges or delays.
Customs Documentation: Ensure complete, accurate paperwork to avoid processing delays.
Screening Failures: Ensure packaging complies with screening requirements to prevent delays.
Cargo Damage: Report any damage immediately to initiate the claims process.
Diversions: In case of diversions, your freight forwarder will seek alternative solutions, though cargo is subject to haulier control.
Indirect Routes: Cost-effective but can involve more handling and delays—opt for direct routes to minimise risks.
Customs Documentation: Ensure compliance with destination requirements to avoid storage fees or delays.
Damage During Handling: Document and report any damage promptly.
Delivery Failures: Ensure all delivery details, including access restrictions, are communicated clearly to avoid delays.
Accurate information and proactive communication with your Freight Forwarder can prevent many issues. At Freight-365, we prioritise smooth handling and delivery, and we’re here to provide guidance whenever needed.
OTHER CONSIDERTAIONS
What is ‘Awkward Cargo’?
Oversized, dangerous goods, or pharmaceuticals may require special handling or equipment.
For all information relating to awkward cargo, click the link below to be taken to our page dedicated to ‘Awkward Cargo’.
Global Holidays
Global Holidays: Plan ahead for holidays to avoid delays and price increases which are in line with demand periods.
You can plan around this, if you know when the national holidays are and what to expect during peak season, click the link below to be taken to our page dedicated to peak season and national holidays.
What’s up Doc?
Documentation varies by country and shipment type. Visit our Docs Guide for a clear breakdown of requirements.
For all documentation information, click the link below to be taken to our doc’s guide page. We will try pour best to make things clearer and assist.
What’s up Doc?
Freight transactions are typically in USD, GBP, or EUR, but local currencies may sometimes be preferred. We work with Capitex for seamless currency exchange—click below for access to our partner portal.
What the Forex!
We work with one of the worlds leading Currency Exchange companies, Capitex. Click the logo below to enter our partner portal or view our partner page beneath.
