General cargo transport
Request a non-binding quote for general cargo transport solutions
Is your company looking for a freight forwarder for bulky or heavy loads that do not completely fill the loading space? Then you have come to the right place. With our expertise in the logistics sector, we organise national and international general cargo transport with our large network of partners. We will be happy to provide you with a non-binding quote for shipping to secure your supply chains.
All-in-one: general cargo services via our multi-carrier shipping platform
Transporting goods by general cargo is one of the most cost-effective solutions and an essential part of the logistics process for global trade. It is typically used for larger loads. Our LetMeShip shipping software gives you access to a wide range of carriers. Simply make one request and we will provide a customised quote in no time.
Further advantages of general cargo transport with LetMeShip:
- Reliable general cargo transport with an experienced logistics partner – nationally and internationally
- Secure transport of valuable or sensitive goods and any other cargo
- Receive a non-binding and free quote from a general cargo shipping company
- Personal advice from our in-house logistics experts
- Transparency in shipping costs – our quote shows the binding final price
- We take care of tracking the shipment for you
What is general cargo transport?
Our carriers organise the secure transport as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. To ensure that the vehicles used are utilised to their full capacity, freight may be transferred one or more times. General cargo transport can be carried out via part loads (LTL) or full loads (FTL), depending on the quantity and transport requirements. This naturally also affects the delivery times and transport duration.
General cargo can come in many different forms and packaging units. Typical general cargo includes:
- Parcels
- Cardboard boxes
- Pallets
- Barrels
- Transport crates or containers
- Building materials
- Heavy machinery
- Furniture
Delivery times for general cargo transport by freight forwarder
The time taken for general cargo transport depends on capacity and route planning, and can take several days. Typically, goods are unloaded and additional cargo is loaded. Customers who require a faster service can opt for a direct delivery. This is recommended for truck transport to neighbouring countries or for full loads, which are then delivered by express. Although a direct trip involves higher costs, it gets your freight to its destination without detours or reloading.
Maximum weight and dimensions of general cargo
The point at which a shipment must be sent as general cargo rather than by parcel service depends on the service provider’s specifications for maximum weight and dimensions. According to the German Federal Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics, general cargo shipments are defined as those weighing between 50 kg and 3,000 kg. Due to their higher weight, general cargo must also be palletised or accessible by forklift and needs special handling.
Just ask us personally
The shipment of general cargo can be a challenge for companies in their day-to-day business. We know the requirements and will be happy to advise you on the right provider, collection and delivery, and support you in the booking process.
FAQ General cargo transport
In order to provide you with a suitable quote for your cargo transport, we require the dimensions and weight of your shipment as well as the destination and pick-up location. For insurance reasons, we also require information about the type and value of the goods and whether transport insurance should be booked. As prices can vary greatly depending on the type, dimensions, weight and transport route, you will always receive a quote that is valid for that day.
As a LetMeShip customer, you can simply create the request in your account via the ‘Special shipping’ tab and it will be automatically forwarded to shipping companies for general cargo. If you do not yet have an account, you can contact us by phone or email without obligation.
It is generally not possible to track general cargo. However, if you require it, we can provide you with the driver’s telephone number and the truck’s registration number. Alternatively, we can contact the shipping company on your behalf to find out the current shipping status and ensure that your goods arrive safely.
Parcel shipments are not automatically fully insured. Especially for valuable cargo on, the basic insurance included with every shipment is no longer sufficient. It is best to speak to your account manager at LetMeShip, who will always inform you about your options and the risks associated with insufficient insurance coverage.
As the sender, it is your responsibility to ensure that your goods are packaged securely for transport. Shipping companies accept no liability for goods that are not packaged properly and may even refuse to accept them. We therefore recommend using Euro pallets, since shipments weighing 30 kg or more must be accessible from below. Make sure that the goods are also securely fastened to the pallet, and use special edge protection if necessary. If several packages are stacked on a pallet or in a transport box, any empty spaces must be filled to prevent the packages from colliding. Any goods that protrude must be specially protected and marked.
Consolidated cargo is a term used in logistics and refers to a form of general cargo transport in which several items of general cargo from different senders are combined into a single shipment. General cargo, on the other hand, refers to the individual goods being transported.
Bulk goods are goods that cannot be processed as standard transport due to their size, shape or weight. They are characterised by irregular dimensions or size and often require special handling. General cargo is goods that can be transported as a single piece or on a pallet.