An independent guide to shipping cargo and parcels. It is not a carrier, logistics company or customs broker, sells nothing and is not connected with the websites that previously used this domain.
Methods
The same cargo can be sent in different ways, and the method you choose affects everything else: the packing, the paperwork, the transit time and what you are allowed to put in the box. Below are the six methods that private senders and small sellers come across most often.
The fastest option is not always the best: cargo needs to arrive intact, not just sooner.
We describe shipping methods in general terms, without company names or prices. Speed and restrictions vary from carrier to carrier, so treat these descriptions as a starting point for your questions rather than a final answer.
Each method has its own strengths and its own requirements for the cargo. Compare them with what you need before choosing a carrier.
A flexible option for domestic shipments and to neighbouring countries: a truck collects the cargo from your door and delivers it to the recipient's door. Handy for furniture, equipment and loads that are awkward to split. The cargo has to cope with vibration and temperature swings, so securing and packing matter a lot.
Suits heavy and bulky cargo over long distances when there is no rush. It usually requires delivery to the station and collection from it, which means extra transfers along the way. The cargo has to withstand a long journey and several rounds of handling.
The main option for large international consignments: cargo travels in a standard container, either on its own or alongside other shippers' pieces. It is the slowest method but carries a lot. Humidity and long periods of rolling at sea call for moisture protection and secure bracing inside the container.
The fastest route for small, valuable and urgent shipments. Rules on contents are the strictest here: many things that are fine in a truck are not allowed on a plane, or only under special rules. Weight and volume are usually checked especially carefully.
Your few boxes travel in one truck or container together with other senders' cargo. This makes sense when you have too little for a dedicated vehicle. On the other hand, pieces are reloaded more often along the way, so marking every piece and using sturdy packaging are a must.
Convenient for small shipments: the parcel is picked up and delivered to an address, and its status is visible online. Limits on weight, size and contents are stricter than for freight, and boxes go through sorting centres where they get dropped and stacked on top of each other.
A comparison of shipping methods and common shipper decisions — plus the guide's article catalogue.
How to get cargo ready for the road: packaging, crating, pallets, void fill, marking and a packing list.
How to choose a carrier and what to ask before shipping, so you do not end up arguing about transit times, liability and documents.
This information is based on the documents in force on the date of publication. International rules, carrier terms and customs requirements are updated regularly, so before you ship, check the current texts and the terms of whoever will be carrying your cargo.