GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026
Best Practice Freight Consolidation
Freight consolidation is the process of combining multiple small shipments from different consignors into a single transport unit, allowing the forwarder acting as consolidator to offer lower per-unit rates while making better use of available capacity.
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Source: https://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/article/freight-consolidation/
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Check transit time: city-to-city index
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Definition & Explanation
Freight consolidation is the process of combining multiple small shipments from different consignors into a single transport unit, allowing the forwarder acting as consolidator to offer lower per-unit rates while making better use of available capacity. The model is most prevalent in LCL ocean freight (Less than Container Load) and in groupage air freight, where individual consignments would not fill a full container or ULD. Compared to direct full-load bookings, consolidation reduces freight costs noticeably but typically extends transit time due to additional handling at consolidation and deconsolidation points. Modern TMS platforms and digital freight exchanges have significantly improved automated load matching, shortening the dwell times that were once a key drawback of the model.
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Transit index
Check transit time: city-to-city index
P50/P80 transit times for sea, air and road — sourced and confidence-rated, not a carrier quote.
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