Groupage cargo - what is it?

Groupage cargo is a way to transport goods that do not require taking up the entire transport space, e.g. a full container. It is also called: LCL - less than container load in the case of sea cargo transport, LTL - less than truckload in the case of road transport and PTL – part truck load.

It is ideal for smaller businesses or individual shipments that do not meet the minimum requirements for standard transportation. Thus, groupage cargo enables efficient use of space, lower shipping costs and increased availability of logistics services to a wide range of customers.

Groupage cargo – examples. Diversity in transport

Groupage transport includes various processed and finished products, transported in single or collective packaging. Typical examples include goods packed in cartons, crates, barrels, bottles or bags. The most popular groupage shipments include:

• drugs and pharmaceutical products – transported in small packages, at controlled temperature,
• electronics – small devices, such as smartphones or laptops, often shipped in smaller quantities, requiring special attention during transport,
• clothing – fashion and textiles that do not take up much space, but are often transported in various sizes and colours, ideal for groupage transport,
• automotive parts - small components, such as filters or spark plugs, are ideal for general cargo due to their size and weight,
• grocery products - pre-packaged items such as coffee or spices that do not require a full truck, but need fast delivery to points of sale,
• construction materials – small elements such as bolts, screws or tools that are necessary on the construction site but do not take up much space.

Groupage cargoes are diverse and can cover a wide range of products, providing flexibility and efficiency in the logistics industry.

Restrictions on groupage transport

Despite its flexibility, groupage transport does not cover all types of goods. In particular, it is not suitable for dangerous goods requiring special permits, flammable substances or explosives, which must be transported in accordance with strict safety standards. In addition, larger items, such as industrial machinery or vehicles, are too large or heavy to fit in standard packaging - so they fall outside the scope of groupage services.

Advantages of groupage transport - the key to efficient logistics

Groupage transport, while flexible and economical, also has its limitations:

• costs - optimisation of shipping costs by splitting cargo space and transportation costs among multiple shippers,
• flexibility - the ability to ship smaller quantities of goods, which is ideal for companies with smaller cargo space requirements,
• accessibility - a wide distribution network enabling access to various locations, including harder-to-reach area,
• safety - high standard of cargo security and monitoring, which minimizes the risk of damage or loss,
• efficiency - increasing the efficiency of the supply chain through regular and planned routes, which translates into fast and on-time deliveries.

Groupage transport is an attractive solution, especially for smaller companies, ensuring cost effectiveness, flexibility and access to a wide distribution network. It is a key element in building efficient and sustainable logistics.

Challenges and limitations of groupage transport

Groupage transport, while flexible and economical, also has its limitations:

• delivery time – due to the need to consolidate loads from various sources, delivery time may be longer compared to dedicated transport,
• risk of damage – a greater number of loading and unloading operations increases the risk of damage to goods,
• cargo restrictions – not all goods are suitable for groupage transport, especially those that are dangerous or require special conditions,
• less predictability – changing schedules and routes may affect the predictability and regularity of deliveries.

Despite these challenges, groupage transport remains an attractive solution for many companies, providing accessibility and flexibility, although it requires more careful planning and coordination.

Safety standards in groupage transport

Safety in groupage transport is a priority. It includes a number of procedures and standards aimed at protecting cargo and ensuring its safe transportation. The key aspects are:

• careful packaging and securing of goods to avoid damage during transport,
• regular training in safe driving and handling of dangerous goods,
• strict compliance with local and international road transport regulations,
• use of GPS systems and other technologies to monitor cargo in real time.

With these standards, groupage transport is becoming a safer and more reliable way to deliver goods, minimising risk and increasing customer confidence.

Arra Group – your partner in specialised transport

Choose Arra Group for secure and safe transport. We specialise in groupage transport, contact us today to discuss all the details. We also offer professional transport of pharmaceuticals, including international and national one.
At Arra Group, we follow the principles of GDP (Good Distribution Practice), which guarantee the consistency and quality of the goods throughout the entire transport route. We were the first company in Poland to receive the GDP certificate. In addition, we follow safety standards in the field of storage and transport of cargo in accordance with TAPA certificates. We are experts in safe transport.

Our company guarantees the highest standards, tailoring services to the specific requirements of the pharmaceutical industry. With advanced monitoring systems and qualified specialists, we ensure that your products arrive on time and in perfect condition. With Arra Group, you can count on reliability, flexibility and an individual approach to each order. Choose us for peace of mind and high quality service.

Contact us today and join our satisfied customers!