Many shippers default to a full container because it feels safest. Often it is the most expensive way to move a load that would fit in a 14 ft or 16 ft truck. Choosing the vehicle by weight, volume and destination usually saves money and time.
Start with two numbers: weight and volume
Every vehicle has a weight limit and a space limit. Dense cargo, such as cable drums, steel or bagged grain, hits the weight limit first. Light cargo, such as electronics in cartons or solar modules, fills the space first. Measure both before you book.
| Vehicle | Typical volume | Typical payload |
|---|---|---|
| 14 ft truck | about 14 m³ | up to about 4 t |
| 16 ft truck | about 18 m³ | up to about 5.5 t |
| 20 ft truck | about 28 m³ | up to about 7.5 t |
| 20 ft container | about 33 m³ | up to about 25 t |
| 40 ft container | about 67 m³ | up to about 26 t |
Truck figures are typical for Indian closed-body vehicles and vary by make. Road-weight rules also limit what can legally travel on a given route.
When a small truck is the right call
- Part loads and urgent dispatches. A 14 ft or 16 ft truck can leave the same day without waiting to fill a larger vehicle.
- City and plant deliveries. Smaller trucks reach sites, warehouses and city areas where trailers cannot turn or enter.
- Staged site deliveries. Projects often need material in batches. Several small trips can be cheaper than storing a full load on site.
When to choose a 20 ft or 40 ft FCL container
- Export and import. Sea freight moves in containers, so a full container load from factory to port avoids re-handling.
- Dense, heavy cargo. A 20 ft container carries far more weight than a 20 ft truck.
- Bulky, high-value goods. A sealed 40 ft or 40 ft high cube container protects electronics and modules from weather and handling.
Oversized cargo needs its own plan
Wind turbine blades, tower sections, met mast sections and transformers do not fit any standard vehicle. They travel on low-bed or multi-axle trailers, with a route survey to check bridges, bends and overhead lines, and with the permits the route requires.
Tip: use our load planner to get an indicative vehicle for your weight and volume before you ask for a quote.
What to send for a quick, accurate quote
- Pickup and drop locations
- Cargo type and packing
- Total weight and dimensions or volume
- Loading date and any delivery window
- Whether it is an export, import or domestic movement
Send these to sales@globalinfratechcorporation.com and our logistics desk will recommend a vehicle and send a rate.
