Transportation of General Cargo

Logistics encompasses multiple freight types, each with specific transportation requirements. General cargo also requires adherence to certain, sometimes unique, shipping regulations. Let’s explore them further.

What is General Cargo?

General cargo consists of individual items or unitized goods transported as a whole. These items vary in shape and size but share the common characteristic of requiring a personalized approach to delivery. Unlike consolidated, bulk, or liquid cargo, general cargo requires special packaging, securing, and selecting the most suitable transportation method — whether on pallets or in containers.

Differences from Other Cargo Types

Key distinctions of general cargo include:

• Transported as individual pieces or in packaging, unlike bulk freight, which is transported loose or in liquid form.
• Requires specialized equipment for loading and unloading.
• Stored in warehouses with precise tracking of each unit.
• Monitored based on quantity rather than overall weight or volume.

ETS’s Experience in General Cargo Transportation

With over 14 years of experience in international logistics, ETS provides tailored solutions for transporting general cargo, ensuring safe and timely delivery. By collaborating with global partners and utilizing its own fleet, ETS optimizes routes and maintains control at every transportation stage.

What is Considered General Cargo?

General cargo covers a broad range of goods, including:

• Equipment and machinery – industrial machines, electronics, medical equipment.
• Furniture and large items – office and home furniture, design elements.
• Construction materials – metal structures, concrete panels, insulation boards.
• Vehicles and spare parts – cars, engines, body components.
• Containers with unique cargo – goods requiring special storage and transportation conditions.

Methods of General Cargo Transportation

Each freight type requires the appropriate mode of transport. ETS offers several key transportation methods:

• Road transport – covered trucks, flatbed trailers, and platforms for various cargo weights and sizes.
• Rail transport – effective for bulk shipments, utilizing platforms, containers, and tank cars.
• Sea transport – international container freight and bulk cargo shipping.
• Air transport – the fastest option for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.

Choosing the Right Transport for General Cargo

The choice of transport for general cargo shipments depends on several important factors. First and foremost, it is essential to consider the characteristics of the freight itself: its size, weight, and specifics, as each type of goods requires an appropriate mode of transport. Next, the transportation route, delivery timeframes, and potential risks that may arise during transit should be assessed. Equally important is proper packaging and securing of the cargo, as its safety during delivery depends on this. All these factors influence the selection of the optimal transport mode, ensuring the reliability and security of the shipment.

General Cargo Transportation Stages

Key steps in the transportation process include:

1. Cargo analysis and transport selection – evaluating cargo specifications and choosing the best transport type.
2. Documentation preparation – customs clearance, insurance, and licenses.
3. Loading and securing – meeting safety standards.
4. Transportation and route monitoring – tracking at all stages.
5. Delivery and unloading – ensuring swift and safe offloading.

Packaging and Securing Requirements

Packaging must match cargo dimensions, weight, and physical properties. To ensure cargo safety during transit, ETS utilizes containers, pallets, wooden crates, or specialized frames to prevent damage. Fragile or impact-sensitive items require additional cushioning. Cargo is secured using straps, fasteners, or locking blocks to maintain stability during transportation.

Ensuring General Cargo Safety

ETS employs modern security measures, including:

• GPS tracking for real-time transport monitoring.
• Security measures at all transportation stages.
• Compliance with international safety standards.

Transportation Geography

ETS provides general cargo transportation across Ukraine and internationally, covering:

• Europe – freight transport to EU countries.
• Asia – international shipping via logistics hubs.
• USA and CIS countries – export-import operations.

Why Choose ETS?

With an in-house fleet and strong partnerships with international carriers, ETS excels in logistics and customs clearance. The company offers a comprehensive approach to general cargo transportation, handling everything from documentation and customs procedures to safe and timely freight delivery. Additionally, all shipments are fully insured, protecting against theft, damage, and delays. ETS provides full client support at every stage, ensuring timely cargo transportation.

How to contact us

To get in touch with our managers, leave a request on our website through the feedback form, on the “Contacts” page, or while calculating the cost using the calculator.