What are Divisible and Indivisible Cargoes?
What are Divisible and Indivisible Cargoes?
Every freight transport has its own weight and size limitations. But what if the cargo exceeds these parameters? This is where the classification into divisible and indivisible cargoes comes into play. What is the difference between them, and how are they transported? Let’s break it down.
Divisible Cargoes: What Are They?
Divisible cargo refers to any goods that can be divided into several parts without losing their consumer properties. Simply put, if the cargo can be disassembled into smaller parts and transported separately without being damaged, it is considered divisible.
Examples of such cargo include planks, gravel, sand, metal beams, and other materials that easily fit within standard dimensions. Typically, no special permits are required for transporting divisible cargo. However, there are cases where even after division, parts of the cargo still do not meet standard norms. In such cases, transportation is possible but requires proper documentation and vehicle markings.
Indivisible Cargoes: When Division is Not Possible
Indivisible cargo refers to goods that cannot be divided without losing their properties or functionality. Most often, these are oversized cargoes or those that, due to their nature, cannot be disassembled.
Main types of indivisible cargoes:
Construction materials: for example, long logs or metal structures.
Cargoes that lose their properties when divided: peat, hay, gaseous substances.
Bulk and liquid goods: cement, petroleum products, lubricants (fuels and oils).
Interestingly, small-piece cargoes, such as bricks, are often combined into a single block for ease of loading, unloading, and transportation. In such cases, they are also considered indivisible.
Transportation Features
Transporting divisible cargo may seem simple: divide it into parts, load it, and send it off. But even here, there are nuances. If, after division, parts of the cargo still exceed standard dimensions, special documentation and vehicle markings will be required.
As for indivisible cargoes, their transportation requires even more attention. Oversized or heavy cargoes can only be transported in compliance with strict rules. For example, this requires an experienced driver who has undergone special training, as well as a permit for transportation.
Why is This Important?
Classifying cargo as divisible or indivisible is not just a formality. It helps optimize the transportation process, reduce the risk of damage to goods, and avoid legal issues.
So, if you are planning to transport large or non-standard cargo, determine in advance whether it is divisible or not. This will save you time, money, and nerves.
