Full load VS break bulk: which is the best option for transporting your import?

Freight logistics can be managed through two main methods: full truckload and break-bulk. Both offer advantages and disadvantages depending on the needs of the companies and the volume of the shipments, especially when we are talking about long distances, such as imports from China or other Asian countries.

Full truckload involves using an entire vehicle for a single shipper, which ensures efficiency and speed. On the other hand, break-bulk cargo allows several shippers to share the space of one vehicle, which can reduce transport costs.

Main differences between full and break-bulk cargo

The choice between full and break-bulk cargo is fundamental in transport logistics. Each method has specific characteristics that suit different shipping needs and the nature of the goods.

What is full truckload?

Full truckload refers to a shipment in which a single vehicle is used to transport goods that occupy all of its available space. This implies that the transport is exclusive to a single shipper.

In this context, since the transport is exclusive to a single company, there are fewer stops along the route (transport is direct to destination) and, as a consequence, greater control over the logistics operation.

What is break-bulk?

As its name suggests, break-bulk is a method in which different shippers share the same vehicle (whether air, sea or land) to transport goods, allowing each shipper to pay only for the space it occupies.

As it is not exclusive, it is undoubtedly an opportunity for small businesses to ship goods, as it represents a significant reduction in operating costs (by sharing shipping costs).

Advantages and disadvantages of full-loading

There are both benefits and disadvantages to using full truckload that businesses should carefully consider.

Advantages of using full truckload

Full truckload offers several advantages that can be crucial for businesses, especially in terms of efficiency and safety in the transport of goods.

Increased speed

The main benefit of full load is speed of delivery. As the vehicle is dedicated exclusively to a single shipment, additional stops needed to pick up or deliver other loads are eliminated. This results in shorter transit times and increased customer satisfaction.

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Reduced risk of damage

By minimising interventions during the transport process, full loading reduces the risk of damage. Since the goods do not need to be transferred to other vehicles, handling is limited, which better protects fragile goods and reduces the chances of loss in transit.

Disadvantages of full-loading

Despite its advantages, full truck loads also have disadvantages that companies need to consider when planning their shipments.

High costs (for low volume)

One of the main disadvantages of full truck loads is the associated costs. For companies that do not have enough cargo to fill a vehicle, transport costs can be high. This can be a significant barrier for small businesses or low volume shipments.

Less flexibility in logistics

Full truckloads generally involve a rigid itinerary. This means that, in the event of changes in shipping needs or variations in the quantity of goods, the flexibility to adapt is limited. The lack of redesign options in transport can make it difficult to respond quickly to market needs.

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Advantages and disadvantages of break-bulk cargo

As with a consolidated container when it comes to sea freight, break-bulk cargo has a number of advantages and disadvantages that significantly influence the decision of companies to choose this method of transport.

Advantages of break-bulk cargo

Operational cost savings

One of the main benefits of break bulk is the reduction of costs associated with transportation. Companies can share space on the same vehicle, allowing them to pay only for the area they actually use. This model is especially useful for companies that do not require large-scale shipments, thus optimising their logistics costs and saving on imports.

This beneficial system also contributes to making operations more viable for small and medium-sized companies, which otherwise could not afford to ship large loads at competitive prices.

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Better adaptability

Less-than-truckload freight allows for better traceability, as many carriers have implemented advanced tracking systems. Customers can monitor their shipments in real time, which increases transparency and confidence in the service. This is a key decision factor when handling goods that require special attention.

At the same time, it should also be noted that breakbulk offers great flexibility in terms of routes and delivery times, adapting to changing market needs and facilitating distribution, even to less accessible destinations.

Disadvantages of break-bulk

Longer delivery times

One of the most significant disadvantages of break-bulk is the delivery times, which tend to be longer compared to full loads. This is because vehicles must make additional stops to pick up and deliver multiple loads, resulting in an increase in overall transport time. For companies that need urgent deliveries, this can be a limiting factor.

It should be borne in mind that, if this type of freight is chosen, it is essential to have perfect inventory control, to schedule purchases well and to avoid any possible delays from the supplier.

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Increased handling and risk

The shared nature of this type of shipment means that goods may be handled several times during the loading and unloading process. This increases the risk of damage or loss, especially for fragile or high-value goods.

How to choose the best type of freight for my company?

Now that we have seen that it is not only a question of budget, it is time to clarify how to choose the best cargo for my company when importing.

The choice between full and break-bulk cargo depends on several key factors that can influence both the efficiency of the transport and the economics of the logistics operation. Assessing cargo characteristics and operational priorities is essential to make an informed decision.

Volume and nature of the cargo

The volume of cargo and its nature are key determinants in the choice of transport method. Companies should consider which option best suits the characteristics of their products and the needs of the shipment.

Fragile or high-value goods?

Products that require special care, such as fragile or high-value items, often benefit more from dedicated transport. This reduces the risk of damage during transit, as there are no transfers between different vehicles. Therefore, in these cases, full load is generally the most advisable option.

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Time and cost

The urgency of delivery and the financial impact are crucial variables that companies must balance when deciding between full truckload and less-than-truckload. Both factors can directly influence customer satisfaction and profit margins.

Impact on customer satisfaction

Delivery time is an essential aspect of customer satisfaction. Choosing full truckload can speed up the process, providing faster deliveries due to fewer stops. In contrast, split freight may extend the delivery time due to the additional stops needed to pick up different loads.

Still in doubt? let us advise you!

Choosing between full truckload and less-than-truckload is not always easy, especially for medium-sized companies looking to balance costs and delivery times. The key can be to combine both options: use full truckload for large volumes and break-bulk for smaller or less urgent orders. With this strategy, you can optimise your resources and respond more quickly to demand.

At S3 Group, we offer a comprehensivesourcing service that advises you at every stage of the import process, including advice on logistics and transport, so you can choose with confidence and make your imports a success.

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