Road freight is the movement of cargo between two places (a place of loading and a place of unloading) using power vehicles via a road network. If you’ve driven on the roads of South Africa, there is no doubt that you have passed many trucks (big and small) distributing freight all over the country. Road freight transportation varies according to distance traveled, nature of the shipment, and size of the shipment.

What are the types of road freight transport?

Curtain sided transportation is one of the most common types of road transport. It is a versatile mode of transport that it offers both the protection of a box truck or van and the flexibility of a flatbed.

Flatbed transportation allows cranes and forklifts to load goods, it also extends across industries and is used for the quick and easy loading of goods.

Temperature controlled transportation allows for cargo that is sensitive to climate conditions to be transported. The temperature of the cargo must be carefully controlled and regulated, and as such the sensitivity and value of the cargo would need to be considered.

Box truck / containerized transportation includes an enclosed cargo area. Box trucks are suitable for transporting freight that is small to medium in size, as well as large loads, dependent on the size of the box truck.

Car Carrying Trailer efficiently transports cars by truck.

Project cargo transportation is a unique form of road freight whereby an abnormally large shipment is loaded onto flatbed trucks and transported to its destination. The cargo is often overweight and abnormal in shape.

What are the advantages of road transport?

• For short distances, it’s faster and less costly than other modes of transport
• It’s easier to control
• It offers flexibility and agility. The route can change at short notice
• Increased access to areas
• Door-to-door service
• It’s the most effective mode of transport between land-locked countries in Southern Africa.

What are the challenges that confront road transport?

• Road accidents
• Theft and hijacking
• The congestion around ports
• It is not suitable for long distances and bulky goods
• Puts strain on unmaintained road networks
• There is a high cost associated with road maintenance and repairs
• Road freight causes high carbon emissions.

What are the types of road freight documentation?

• Commercial invoice – an invoice, and legal document, between supplier and customer
• Packing list – an itemized list of articles in the container or package. It typically provides the quantity, description, and dimensions of each item
• Road consignment note – confirms that a contract exists between the consignor and the consignee
• Delivery note and proof of delivery – a physical or digital copy of the delivery note is signed and sent back to the consignor as proof of delivery.

What road freight services do Bidvest International Logistics provide?

Our extensive transport and distribution infrastructure caters to container cartage, LCL/break-bulk, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs), primary and secondary distribution of hazardous and non-hazardous freight, cross border, and bonded cargo. Our distribution and product tracking capabilities are processed via our hi-tech management system, ensuring products reach their destinations safely and efficiently. System-driven business intelligence/management reporting can be provided via the online portal, including live vehicle tracking and real-time electronic POD management via our customized sign-on-glass solutions. If you’d like to hear more about road freight and how our team is positioned to help you, don’t hesitate to call our road freight team on +27 87 158 5600 or contact us via our website.