Groupage Transport

In the logistics industry, efficiency is key. One method that helps with this is groupage. But what exactly does groupage mean, and what advantages does it offer for companies looking to ship goods?

Groupage transport in a warehouse
Table of contents

What is Groupage?

Groupage, also known as partial shipment or shared transport, is the process of combining smaller shipments from different shippers into one larger load. This occurs when individual shipments are not large enough to fill an entire truck or container. By combining these shipments, available transportation capacity is utilized to the fullest, leading to more cost-effective transportation.

How does Groupage work?

The process of groupage involves several steps:

  1. Collection: Small shipments from various senders are collected at a central point, such as a warehouse or distribution center.
  2. Consolidation: These shipments are combined into one larger cargo, taking into account destination and type of goods.
  3. Transport: The consolidated cargo is transported to a central point in the destination area.
  4. Distribution: At the final destination, the shipments are separated again and delivered to the respective recipients.

This process allows for more efficient use of transportation resources and reduces the number of trips, which is both cost-saving and environmentally friendly.

Benefits of Groupage

Applying groupage offers several advantages:

  • Cost savings: Sharing transportation costs with other shippers significantly reduces the cost per shipment.
  • Space use: Making optimal use of cargo space reduces the number of transports required.
  • Sustainability: Fewer transport movements lead to lower carbon emissions, contributing to more environmentally friendly logistics.
  • Accessibility for small businesses: Companies with smaller shipments can also benefit from advantageous transportation rates.

Looking for support to make the right decision or want more information?

If so, please contact us. One of our specialists will be happy to help you further.

Contact

When do you choose Groupage?

Groupage is especially suitable when:

  1. Your shipment is too small for a full truck or container.
  2. Cost reduction and efficiency are important considerations.
  3. You are flexible with delivery times, as groupage can sometimes have slightly longer transit times due to multiple loading and unloading points.

Groupage is a cost-effective way to transport smaller shipments by combining them into one larger load. It offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, sustainable transportation and accessibility for smaller companies. By choosing the right logistics partner, companies can take full advantage of the benefits groupage offers while effectively managing any challenges.

Groupage in different transport modes

Groupage can be applied in various modes of transportation:

  • Road Transport: Several pallets or packages are combined in one truck.
  • Sea freight: Known as LCL (Less than Container Load), where multiple shipments share one container.
  • Airfreight: Smaller air cargo shipments are merged to save costs and make better use of space.

This flexibility makes groupage a versatile solution for a variety of logistics needs.

Frequently asked questions about Groupage

Other knowledge base articles

Clearing fees

July 27, 2026

Clearing fees

Customs clearance fees are the fees you pay when a package from outside the EU enters the Netherlands. They consist of three ...

What is B2C e-commerce?

July 27, 2026

What is B2C e-commerce?

B2C e-commerce stands for business-to-consumer: as a company, you sell directly to individual customers through an online store or platform. Examples include ...

Rail Freight in the Fall

July 27, 2026

Rail Freight

Rail freight is growing as an alternative to sea and air freight, especially on the route between China and Europe. The train is faster ...