Part Load freight
A part load shipment is larger or heavier than a groupage shipment and occupies a significant part of the available truck capacity, while still allowing for efficient capacity utilization.
Compared to groupage, part loads are often transported with fewer handling points and more direct routing giving shorter lead time than for groupage.
What is part load freight?
A part load shipment typically occupies a significant part of a truck without requiring full vehicle capacity.
In Norway, shipments exceeding approximately 2,500 kg chargeable weight are often classified as part loads. The solution is also widely used for international road freight across Europe, providing a balance between the flexibility of groupage and the dedicated capacity of a full truckload.
Compared to groupage shipments, part loads are often transported with fewer handling points and more direct routing. This can result in shorter transit times and reduced risk of damage.
When is your shipment handled as a part load?
- Your shipment is too large for groupage, but does not require a full truck
- You want faster delivery than groupage, with fewer handling points
- Your goods require more space or special handling
- You want a flexible and cost-efficient freight solution
Part load vs groupage (LTL) and full truckload (FTL)
Not sure in which solution your shipment fits in?
- Groupage (LTL): Smaller shipments consolidated with others, cost-efficient but with more handling
- Part loads: Medium-sized shipments, often transported directly, balancing speed and cost
- FTL (Full Truckload): Full truck, dedicated transport, fastest and most direct solution
If your shipment is smaller, groupage may be the best choice. If it requires a full truck, FTL is the right option.
What is the difference between part load and full load freight?
Part load freight uses only a portion of the available truck capacity, while full load freight (FTL) provides a dedicated vehicle for a single shipment. Part loads offer a balance between cost efficiency and transit time, while FTL is often preferred for large volumes or time-critical deliveries.
Why choose ColliCare for part loads
With flexible freight solutions and strong expertise in both distribution and direct freight movements, we ensure efficient part load handling across domestic and international markets.
We tailor each shipment based on size, destination and delivery requirements.
Many part load shipments are transported directly from sender to receiver, reducing handling and transit time.
You only pay for the space you use, while benefiting from faster transport than groupage.
Track your shipment and get full overview through our customer portal.
Read more about eCare
We combine road, sea and rail for optimal transport solutions.
Dedicated contact persons and fast support for all part load shipments.
Get in contact with our Customer Service
How part load freigth works
Booking
Book via EDI, email or our web solution.
Planning
We optimize loading, routing and transport method.
Transport
Shipments are transported directly or via optimized routes depending on size and destination.
Tracking in eCare
Full visibility throughout the transport process.
Delivery
Delivered according to agreed time and conditions.
Packaging and labeling requirements
To ensure safe and efficient freight:
- Goods must be securely packaged to avoid damage
- Packaging must be suitable for shared transport when applicable
- All shipments must be clearly labeled
- Shipment information must be submitted electronically before pick-up
For more detailed guidelines, see our page on packaging and labeling of goods.
Benefits of part load freight
- Cost-efficient – you only pay for the space used
- Faster than groupage for larger shipments
- Flexible freight solutions
- Reduced handling and lower risk of damage
Frequently asked questions about part loads
A shipment is usually considered a part load when it is too large for groupage but too small to require a full truck. Part loads offer a balance between cost efficiency and transit time.
Part load shipments typically occupy a significant portion of a truck and are often transported with fewer handling points than groupage shipments.
Groupage shipments are consolidated with other goods and usually pass through terminals before final delivery.
Yes, all part load shipments can be tracked through our eCareplatform, giving you full visibility, status updates, and delivery confirmation.
Yes. Part load freight is widely used for both domestic and international shipments. By combining efficient routing, partner networks and flexible capacity, part load solutions offer a cost-effective alternative to full truckload transport for medium-sized shipments.