Valantis Group

When planning a shipment, one of the most common questions customers ask is: How much cargo can fit in a truck or container?

At first glance, the answer may seem simple. However, the actual capacity of a truck or container depends not only on the weight of the cargo or the available loading space.

The correct choice of equipment and the possibility of loading the cargo depend on several important factors, including weight, volume, dimensions, packaging, cargo characteristics, route, and applicable weight restrictions.

Therefore, when planning transportation, knowing only the total weight of the cargo is often not enough.

Truck Capacity

A standard curtain-side trailer usually offers approximately 80–90 m³ of loading space, although the exact capacity depends on the type and configuration of the trailer.

At the same time, using the entire available loading space does not mean that the truck can carry the maximum possible weight.

On many international routes, the practical payload of a standard trailer is around 22–24 tons. However, the permitted maximum weight may vary depending on the vehicle's technical specifications, road regulations, route, and other restrictions.

For this reason, both volume and weight need to be considered when evaluating a shipment.

For example:

• 5 tons of compact machinery may occupy relatively little space;
• the same 5 tons of large but lightweight products may occupy a significant part of the trailer.

In other words, a heavier shipment does not necessarily require more loading space.

Container Capacity

In sea freight, the most commonly used standard containers include 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot High Cube containers.

20-foot container

A standard 20-foot container has an internal volume of approximately 33 m³.

Its maximum payload depends on the tare weight of the specific container, the type of container, and the transportation conditions. In many cases, it can reach approximately 25–28 tons, but the actual permitted weight should always be checked for the specific container and route.

40-foot container

A standard 40-foot container has an internal volume of approximately 67 m³.

It is generally used for cargo that requires more loading space.

It is important to note that a 40-foot container does not necessarily allow twice as much weight to be transported as a 20-foot container. In many cases, the limiting factor is not volume but the maximum permitted gross weight.

40-foot High Cube

A 40-foot High Cube container has an internal volume of approximately 76 m³.

Its additional internal height makes it particularly suitable for bulky but relatively lightweight cargo.

Note: The figures above are approximate. The actual permitted payload depends on the specific equipment, cargo, route, and applicable weight restrictions.

Why Isn't Weight Alone Enough?

When planning transportation, it is important to understand the difference between volume capacity and weight capacity.

Imagine two different shipments, both weighing 10 tons.

The first may consist of dense and compact machinery and occupy only part of the available loading space.

The second may consist of large but relatively lightweight products. In this case, the same 10 tons may occupy almost the entire available loading space.

That is why selecting the right equipment requires not only the total weight, but also the total volume and dimensions of the cargo.

What Information Is Needed to Calculate the Shipment Correctly?

To select the appropriate transportation solution and calculate the cost accurately, it is recommended to provide the following information:

• Cargo description
• Number of packages or pallets
• Dimensions of each package: length × width × height
• Weight of each package
• Total gross weight
• Total volume
• Pallet dimensions
• Whether the cargo can be stacked
• Any special loading or unloading requirements
• Pickup and delivery locations

Based on this information, it is possible to determine more accurately what type of equipment is required and how the available loading space can be used most efficiently.

Truck or Container?

The choice between a truck and a container should not be based only on their volume.

For example, a 40-foot High Cube container has approximately 76 m³ of internal volume, while a standard trailer can offer around 80–90 m³.

However, this does not mean that both options are equally suitable for every shipment.

The choice may depend on:

• Pickup and delivery locations
• Route
• Transit time
• Cargo weight and volume
• Cargo dimensions
• Port availability
• Customs procedures
• Loading and unloading requirements
• Transportation cost

For example, for large-volume shipments from China to Armenia, sea or rail container transportation may be an efficient solution. For transportation between Armenia, Georgia, Russia, Europe, and other destinations, road transportation can often provide greater flexibility and door-to-door delivery.

Heavy and Oversized Cargo

Special attention is required for heavy, long, wide, or high cargo.

Even if the cargo technically fits inside a truck or container, its transportation may still be restricted by other factors.

For example, it is necessary to consider:

• Internal dimensions of the truck or container
• Door opening dimensions
• Total cargo weight
• Weight distribution across the axles
• Permitted floor load
• Loading equipment requirements
• Road and local weight restrictions

For particularly heavy or oversized cargo, it is important to assess the feasibility of transportation before final packing and booking the equipment.

Accurate Information Helps Avoid Additional Costs

Incorrect cargo dimensions or weight can lead to additional problems during transportation.

If the actual dimensions are larger than originally declared, it may be necessary to change the equipment, rearrange the cargo, or pay additional charges.

That is why providing accurate cargo information is essential when calculating transportation costs.

Accurate information → the right equipment → a more accurate quotation → fewer unexpected costs.

How to Choose the Right Transportation Solution

There is no single transportation option that is suitable for every shipment.

A shipment of 5 tons and 5 m³ may require a completely different solution from a shipment of 25 tons and 60 m³.

The same applies to palletized goods, machinery, vehicles, and oversized cargo.

The most efficient solution is determined by considering cargo weight, volume, dimensions, route, delivery timeframe, and transportation requirements.

At Valantis Group, we help customers evaluate these factors and select the most suitable transportation solution for their cargo.

Over the past few months, many importers have noticed that sea freight transit times have become less predictable. Containers that previously arrived on schedule are now taking longer to reach their destination. This is not caused by a single issue, but by several global factors that continue to affect international shipping.

Here's what's happening in the market.

The Red Sea Situation Continues to Affect Shipping

The Suez Canal has long been the shortest and most efficient route between Asia and Europe. However, due to ongoing security concerns in the Red Sea, many shipping lines continue to avoid this route and sail around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa instead.

Although this allows vessels to operate more safely, it also adds considerable distance to each voyage. Longer routes increase transit times, fuel consumption, and operating costs, affecting shipping schedules worldwide.

Alternative Routes Are Under Pressure

As carriers adjust their networks, more cargo is being redirected through alternative logistics corridors, including the Black Sea.

For shipments moving from China to Armenia, this means greater reliance on routes through Georgia, increasing cargo volumes across the region.

What Is Happening at Poti Port

As one of the main gateways to the Caucasus, Poti Port is handling increased cargo volumes. While operations continue as normal, higher demand can lead to longer container handling times, customs processing, and truck loading, which may affect delivery schedules to Armenia.

Peak Season Is Adding More Demand

August marks the beginning of the annual peak shipping season. Manufacturers increase exports ahead of autumn sales and the holiday period, reducing available vessel space and making schedule changes more common.

During this period, booking shipments early becomes more important than ever.

What Does This Mean for Importers?

While international shipping continues to operate, businesses should be prepared for more flexible transit times and occasional schedule changes. Planning shipments in advance, allowing extra time for delivery, and working with a reliable logistics partner can help reduce the impact of current market conditions.

Global logistics continues to evolve, and today's shipping environment requires more planning and flexibility than ever before. Understanding market changes allows businesses to make informed decisions and keep their supply chains moving efficiently.

At Valantis Group, we closely monitor market developments and work with our partners to provide the most reliable transportation solutions for our customers.

We are pleased to announce that Valantis Group continues to expand its logistics solutions by introducing a new service: rail freight transportation from China to Armenia via Georgia.

In today's global supply chain environment, businesses require transportation solutions that are reliable, cost-effective, and efficient. Rail freight has become one of the fastest-growing modes of international transportation, offering an excellent balance between transit time, cost, and reliability.

Why Choose Rail Freight Transportation?

Rail freight provides businesses with a practical alternative to traditional transportation methods, combining operational efficiency with competitive pricing.

Cost-Effective Solution

Rail transportation is often more economical than Full Truck Load (FTL) road transport, particularly for medium and large-volume shipments. This allows companies to optimize logistics costs while maintaining high service standards.

Optimized Transit Times

Rail freight offers stable and predictable transit schedules and, on certain routes, can provide faster delivery compared to road transportation. This helps businesses improve supply chain planning and inventory management.

Reliable and Consistent Operations

Unlike road transport, rail networks operate on fixed schedules, reducing the impact of traffic congestion, road restrictions, and other external factors. As a result, shipments benefit from greater predictability and reliability.

Suitable for Various Cargo Types

The service is ideal for a wide range of cargo, including consumer goods, industrial equipment, raw materials, and other commercial shipments, ensuring safe and efficient transportation from China to Armenia.

New Logistics Opportunities for Armenian Businesses

China remains one of the key sourcing markets for Armenian importers, and companies are constantly seeking transportation solutions that balance cost, speed, and reliability. Rail freight transportation offers exactly that—an efficient alternative that helps optimize logistics expenses while maintaining dependable transit times.

By expanding our service portfolio, Valantis Group continues to provide modern and flexible logistics solutions tailored to the evolving needs of businesses engaged in international trade.

Transporting goods safely is a core part of logistics, but even the most carefully planned shipments face risks. Cargo insurance ensures that businesses are protected from financial losses due to unexpected events, making it a crucial part of modern supply chains.

Cargo insurance covers the loss or damage of goods during transportation—whether by air, sea, or land. It protects shipments against risks like accidents, theft, natural disasters, and handling errors, transferring the financial risk from the shipper to the insurer.

Common Risks in Cargo Transportation

• Accidents and collisions: Damage caused by vehicle, ship, or plane accidents.
• Theft and piracy: High-value shipments can be targeted by criminals.
• Weather-related damage: Storms, floods, or extreme temperatures may affect cargo.
• Handling errors: Improper loading, unloading, or storage can result in losses.

Types of Cargo Insurance

• All-risk coverage: Protects against nearly all causes of loss or damage, except those specifically excluded.
• Named-perils coverage: Covers only the risks listed in the policy.
• Specialized coverage: For temperature-sensitive or perishable goods requiring strict climate control.

Benefits of Cargo Insurance

• Financial security: Reduces the risk of losing money due to damaged or lost shipments.
• Peace of mind: Businesses can focus on operations knowing their cargo is protected.
• Customer trust: Insured shipments demonstrate professionalism and reliability.
• Regulatory compliance: Some countries or contracts require insured cargo.

Choosing the Right Insurance for Your Cargo
The right policy depends on factors such as the type of goods, transportation mode, route, and risk level. Partnering with an experienced logistics provider can simplify the process and ensure the best coverage.

Conclusion:
Cargo insurance is an essential part of a reliable logistics strategy. By understanding its importance and choosing the appropriate coverage, businesses can protect their investments, minimize risks, and build trust with clients worldwide.