Cartage

Local transport of cargo, often between a freight station, warehouse and nearby customer premises.

Published by AllwayforwardUpdated 18 Oct 2026

A visual breakdown of Cartage: Local origin, Short truck movement and Local destination. The illustration simplifies the concept; the definition and applicable terms determine the details.

Where it fits in the journey

Highlighted stages are commonly relevant

01Agree
02Prepare
03Transport
04Clear
05Deliver — commonly relevant

THE PICTURE, IN WORDS

Cartage at a glance

Local origin
Short truck movement
Local destination

THE DETAIL THAT MATTERS

Does cartage describe the whole international shipment?

Confirm the delivery area, vehicle type and loading arrangements; local transport can still incur accessorial charges.

Name the service you actually need

Service	What to agree
Curbside / standard	Exact unloading point and who unloads
Liftgate	Platform dimensions and load capacity
Inside delivery	Agreed interior location and access
Assembly / installation	Separate work scope and responsible team

Hand-drawn delivery scene showing a truck and receiving location. — Final delivery in context · original educational illustration, not a photograph of a shipment.

Before you book

For final delivery, have these details ready:

Address, access restrictions and appointment
Largest piece size and available unloading equipment
Included unloading point and extra services

Explore final delivery support

Sources & further reading

Plain-language educational guidance. The applicable contract, carrier tariff, official rules or insurance policy takes precedence. Illustrations show concepts, not a specific shipment or facility.

Published by Allwayforward as a plain-language freight reference. Examples are illustrative, not customer case studies. For a correction, send the term and supporting source.