When you need to move goods—whether it’s a single sofa or a full warehouse load—picking the right freight solution can save you time, money, and headaches. In this guide we break down the most common freight types, what they’re best at, and quick tips to get the best deal.
Road freight is the go‑to for most local and regional moves. Trucks can reach almost any address, handle pallets, crates, or even full truckloads. If your delivery is within a few hundred miles, road freight usually offers the fastest door‑to‑door service.
Rail freight shines on longer distances where volume is high. Trains can haul thousands of tonnes at a lower cost per mile than trucks, but you’ll need a final‑mile solution (like a small truck) to get the cargo from the rail yard to its exact spot.
Air freight is all about speed. It’s perfect for urgent, high‑value, or time‑sensitive items. The trade‑off is higher price and weight limits, so it works best for smaller, lighter shipments that need to be everywhere in a day or two.
Sea freight handles the biggest, bulkiest loads across continents. Shipping a container overseas is cheap per kilogram, but you have to plan for longer transit times and customs paperwork. If you can wait a few weeks, sea freight is the most cost‑effective way to move large volumes.
1. Know your cargo dimensions. Measure length, width, height, and weight accurately. Many carriers charge by volume if the item is bulky, so precise numbers prevent surprise fees.
2. Bundle shipments. If you have several small packages going to the same destination, ask for a consolidated quote. Combining loads can lower the per‑item price.
3. Compare quotes. Use at least three freight providers and ask for breakdowns. Look beyond the headline price—check fuel surcharges, handling fees, and insurance costs.
4. Plan for customs. For international freight, paperwork is a big part of the cost. Work with a carrier that offers customs brokerage or use a specialist to avoid delays and fines.
5. Consider flexible delivery windows. If you can accept a broader delivery timeframe, carriers often give a discount. Tight windows usually cost more because they limit the carrier’s route options.
At Dex Removals & Logistics Services we help you match the right freight type to your move, whether it’s a local house clearance or a cross‑country pallet shipment. Our team checks your specifications, compares rates, and handles all the paperwork so you don’t have to worry about the details.
Ready to find the best freight solution for your next move? Get in touch with us, and we’ll walk you through the options, give you a clear quote, and set up a smooth, reliable transport plan.
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