Glossary term
Consolidation
Combining several shippers’ consignments into one container or load to obtain a better rate.
Grouping consignments from several shippers into a single container or load, so each pays a share of a full-load rate rather than a less-than-load rate.
The saving comes with a timing cost: a consolidator waits for enough cargo to fill the unit, and the goods are handled again at both ends at a container freight station. Also called groupage.