Understanding Cargo Descriptions in Freight Shipping

At Bowagate Global Ltd, with years of experience in international shipping and customs brokerage, we understand how confusing cargo descriptions can be—especially for first-time shippers.

Whether you’re importing via air, sea, or land, using the right cargo description is critical for smooth handling, accurate documentation, and quick customs clearance.

In this guide, we break down the most common cargo descriptions on our quote request form and explain exactly what they mean.

✈️ Air Cargo Descriptions

Air freight is ideal for urgent, lightweight, or high-value shipments. On our quote form, you’ll find two main types:

1. Air Cargo (Pallet)

This refers to goods placed on pallets and secured for air transport. Palletized cargo is often shrink-wrapped or strapped.

📦 Examples: Electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, perishables.

2. Air Cargo (Consol)

Short for consolidated cargo, this means your shipment will be grouped with others in one air consignment — helping you save on cost.

📦 Examples: Small electronics, clothing, accessories, toys.

🚢 Container Descriptions

Container shipping is the backbone of global freight for large or heavy shipments.

1. Container (20ft)

A 20-foot container typically fits up to 10 standard pallets. Ideal for medium-volume cargo or compact vehicles.

📦 Examples: Furniture, machines, household goods.

2. Container (40ft)

Double the capacity of a 20ft container. Suitable for bulkier cargo or multiple vehicle shipments.

📦 Examples: Building materials, cars, industrial equipment.

🔄 Other Cargo Descriptions

1. Groupage (LCL)

Also called Less-than-Container Load, this allows you to share a container with other shippers — perfect for smaller loads.

📦 Examples: Shoes, food products, general retail goods.

2. Vehicle (RORO)

Roll-on/Roll-off shipping is used for moving cars and trucks by simply driving them onto the vessel.

🚗 Best for: New/used cars, buses, vans.

3. Vehicle (Containerized)

This involves loading a vehicle inside a container for extra protection — ideal for luxury or classic cars.

🚗 Used for: SUVs, vintage cars, motorcycles.

☣️ Dangerous Goods

These are regulated materials that could pose health, safety, or environmental risks during shipment.

📦 Examples: Batteries, chemicals, flammable liquids, gas cylinders.

🚨 Note: Proper classification and packaging are non-negotiable for dangerous goods. Our team is certified to handle DG shipments.

🏗️ Heavy-Duty Cargo

Heavy-duty or oversized cargo requires special lifting gear, permits, and route planning.

📦 Examples: Cranes, construction equipment, mining machinery, transformers.

At Bowagate, we handle heavy equipment logistics with precision — from port clearance to inland transport.

✅ Why Cargo Description Accuracy Matters

• It ensures faster customs clearance

• Helps prevent shipping delays and fines

• Determines the correct handling process

• Affects your freight cost and documentation

That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced freight forwarder who can help you classify your cargo correctly.

📞 Start Your Shipment with Bowagate Global Ltd

Whether it’s RORO, Air Consol, Groupage, or Dangerous Goods, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Us:

📞 Call us: +234 8147068472
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.bowagateglobal.com

✅ We ship globally.
✅ We clear at all Nigerian ports.
✅ We offer reliable door-to-door delivery.

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👉 Click here to request a freight quote — and get started today with a trusted team.