| Question | FTL / dedicated truck | LTL / shared capacity |
|---|---|---|
| How is space used? | A truck is allocated to the shipment. | The load shares vehicle capacity with other consignments. |
| What should I compare? | Vehicle suitability, collection window and delivery plan. | Space occupied, handling stages and delivery flexibility. |
| What drives the decision? | Volume, deadline or a need for dedicated capacity. | A smaller load and compatibility with a shared service. |
Where does groupage fit?
Groupage brings smaller consignments together for transport. LTL describes less-than-truckload freight; groupage describes a consolidation arrangement. The terms overlap, but the collection schedule, terminals and handovers depend on the actual service. Ask how your load will move rather than relying on the label alone.
Measure the complete load
Give the outside dimensions of each packed pallet, including the pallet base and any overhang. State gross weight and whether another load may safely be placed on top. Two shipments with the same weight may occupy very different amounts of floor space. Non-stackable, fragile or irregular pieces need explicit handling instructions.
- Provide quantities for each size of pallet or package.
- State whether loading is from the rear, side or top.
- Identify forklift, loading dock or lifting requirements at both addresses.
Compare the same journey
For Italy–Turkey or other international road movements, specify the direction of travel, collection and delivery postcodes, cargo-ready date and receiving hours. Ask whether each offer covers the same pickup, delivery and coordination stages. A cheaper headline price is not a useful comparison if the delivery scope differs.
When timing changes the choice
A small shipment may still justify dedicated capacity if the delivery window is restrictive. Conversely, a flexible shipment may suit shared capacity. Ask the team to assess both options using your actual deadline. Do not assume a fixed transit time or a universal pallet-count threshold applies to every route.
Planning example
Example: six pallets for a factory
Six stackable pallets with flexible receiving dates and six non-stackable pallets needed for a fixed production slot are different requests. Send dimensions, gross weight and the latest acceptable delivery time for each. Ask for a comparison of available shared and dedicated options, with the included stages listed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request a quote before the goods are packed?
Yes. Identify any provisional dimensions or weights in the product description. Update the request with final packed measurements before confirming the transport; a different footprint or weight may change the plan and offer.
What if other goods cannot be placed on my pallets?
Leave the Stackable option unselected and explain the restriction in the description. Include the full packed height and any overhang. The team needs this information when reviewing shared capacity and the space your shipment occupies.
What if there is no forklift at delivery?
Mention this before requesting a vehicle, together with each piece's weight and the access conditions. Ask the team to review unloading arrangements; selecting a truck type does not itself include lifting equipment or unloading labour.
Ready to discuss your shipment?
Share the route, packed dimensions, gross weight and required dates. The team reviews service availability, timing and the included charges before confirmation.