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Shipment tracking
Ask our experts
Shipment tracking

Resources

Your go-to guides for international freight and logistics.

Practical freight guidance you can rely on

Explore clear, straightforward resources covering freight processes, shipping terms and container options. Each guide is built to help you understand key considerations before moving your goods.

Designed to support informed decision-making, our resources give you the information you need at every stage of the shipping process.

Incoterms

Essential shipping terms explained simply

Container sizes
Standard container options to suit every type of cargo
Shipping guide
A practical downloadable overview of the freight process

user guides

Short video guides showing how to use Pinnacle International Freight track to track and manage your shipments.

FAQs

Helpful answers to some of the most common freight and shipping questions.

Air Freight

What are the benefits of using air freight?

Air freight offers speed, reliability, and global reach—ideal for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments.

What is IATA?

IATA (International Air Transport Association) is the trade association for the world’s airlines, setting global standards for safety, security, efficiency, and sustainability in air transport.

What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?

An AWB is a non-negotiable document issued by an airline or agent that serves as a receipt for goods and a contract of carriage.

How do you calculate the chargeable weight?

Chargeable weight is based on either the actual weight or the volumetric weight—whichever is greater. Volumetric weight is calculated using the formula:
(Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000

What are the maximum dimensions and height for lower deck cargo?

Dimensions vary by aircraft, but typical lower deck height limits range from 157- 160 cm.

What is a freighter service?

A freighter service uses dedicated cargo aircraft, allowing for larger shipments, flexible routing, and specialized handling. 

Can you carry dangerous goods by air?

Yes, we are certified to handle dangerous goods in compliance with IATA regulations. Proper documentation and packaging are required. 

How much can you load into a 20’ and 40’ container?
A 20’ container holds approx. 25–28 CBM, and a 40’ container holds approx. 55–60 CBM. Weight limits depend on route and carrier. (insert link to container spec in resource section).
What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping?
FCL (Full Container Load) means one shipper uses the entire container. LCL (Less than Container Load) involves sharing container space with other shipments.
What are the benefits of FCL?
FCL offers faster transit times, reduced handling, and lower risk of damage or loss.
Are there any benefits for LCL?
LCL is cost-effective for smaller shipments and provides flexibility without needing to fill a full container.
How do I calculate cubic meters?

To calculate CBM (Cubic Metres), which is the volume of your cargo, you use the following formula:

CBM = Length × Width × Height

Make sure all dimensions are in metres. If your measurements are in centimetres, divide each by 100 before calculating.

For example, you have a pallet that is:

  • Length: 120 cm
  • Width: 100 cm
  • Height: 80 cm

Convert to metres:

  • Length = 1.2 m
  • Width = 1.0 m
  • Height = 0.8 m
CBM = 1.2 × 1.0 × 0.8 = 0.96 CBM
What is a Bill of Lading (B/L)?

A B/L is a legal document issued by a carrier to acknowledge receipt of cargo and outline the terms of transport.

What types of B/L are there?

Common types include Original B/L, Express B/L, and Sea Waybill B/L. Each serves different purposes for release and control of goods.

What should I do before loading a container?
Before loading, inspect the container for damage, cleanliness, and dryness. Ensure cargo fits within weight and size limits, is properly packed and secured, and complies with regulations (e.g., ISPM15 for wood packaging). Distribute weight evenly, prepare documentation, and consider taking photos for records
What is the difference between groupage and dedicated transport?
Groupage combines multiple shipments in one vehicle, reducing costs. Dedicated transport uses a vehicle solely for your goods, offering faster delivery.
What are the main different types of vehicles?
We use vans, curtain-sided trailers, box trucks, and temperature-controlled vehicles depending on cargo type and destination.
How many pallets can I load onto a vehicle?
The number of pallets you can fit on a vehicle depends on the type of vehicle and the pallet size. Here’s a general guide based on standard pallet sizes.
Standard UK Pallet (1200 × 1000 mm)
Vehicle Type Approx. Pallet Capacity
Small Van 1–2 pallets
Luton Van (3.5T) 6 pallets
7.5T Truck 10 pallets
18T Rigid Truck 14 pallets
Articulated Trailer (13.6m) 26 standard pallets

Euro Pallet (1200 × 800 mm)

Because Euro pallets are narrower, you can fit more into a trailer, for instance a full load could be up to a maximum of 33 euro pallets
What are the considerations when loading a trailer?
  • Can the pallets be double stacked: If goods can be safely stacked, you may fit more.
  • Weight limits: Vehicle payload capacity may restrict how many pallets you can load.
  • Height restrictions: Some goods may exceed vehicle height limits.
  • Load configuration: Side vs rear loading can affect layout. Also consider how your customer will off-load the trailer when its delivered to them.
Do my goods need to be customs cleared?
Yes, for international road freight, customs clearance is required. We provide full support to ensure compliance.
What are the dimensions of a standard pallet and Euro pallet?

A UK standard pallet is typically 1200 × 1000 mm. A Euro pallet is 1200 × 800 mm.

What is a 4-way pallet and why are they used?
A 4-way pallet allows forklift access from all sides, improving handling efficiency and storage flexibility.
How long do you get to off-load a container?
Standard free time is usually 2 to 3 hours. Additional time may incur demurrage or detention charges.
What is a handball container?
A handball container requires manual unloading of loose cargo, often more labour-intensive than palletized goods.
How are goods stored in a warehouse?
Goods are stored in racking systems or bulk stacked, goods stored in racking systems tend to be standard size pallets whereas bulk items tend to be larger oversized items such as flooring or large machinery.
How are goods dispatched from the warehouse?
Goods are dispatched from our warehouse using a range of transport options based on the shipment size, destination, and delivery requirements. Once an order is picked and packed, it is loaded onto the appropriate vehicle—such as vans, trucks, or trailers—for delivery. This can range from courier options, overnight pallet network to dedicated vehicles with assisted off-loading.
What is ISPM15?
ISPM15 is an international standard for wood packaging, requiring heat treatment or fumigation to prevent pest infestation.
Why do I need to use IPSM15 wood for shipping?
Using ISPM15 wood for shipping is essential to prevent the spread of pests and diseases that can threaten ecosystems and agriculture. The requirement requires heat or chemical treatment to eliminate harmful organisms ensuring they are safe for international transport. Compliance with ISPM15 is crucial for avoiding shipping delays, fines and rejection of shipments.
Is ISPM15 a requirement for all countries?
Whilst it is not necessarily a requirement for all countries, the vast majority do recognise and are subject to ISPM15 regulations. Our recommendation when exporting would be to always use ISPM15 standard wood packaging.
What different types of cases are there?
We offer plywood cases, timber cases, and heavy-duty crates, tailored to your cargo’s size and fragility.
How do I protect my goods from moisture damage and corrosion?
We use desiccants, barrier foil wrapping, and VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) materials to safeguard goods.
What is a handling indicator?
Handling indicators show if a package has been tilted, dropped, or exposed to moisture—helping monitor transit conditions.

What is the difference between case supply and on-site packing?

Case supply involves delivering empty cases to your site. On-site packing includes our team professionally packing your goods at your location.
What are Incoterms?

Incoterms are international trade terms defining responsibilities between buyers and sellers for shipping, marine insurance, and customs.

Why are Incoterms important?

It is important to define the incoterms when quoting or negotiating with either your supplier or customer as this will define which party is responsible for shipping, marine insurance and any custom duties/taxes and any associated costs. They help to reduce the risk of disputes ensuring that all parties involved understand their responsibilities of shipping.

What are the different Incoterms?

For a list of incoterms, please refer to our guide.

What is a Customs Procedure Code (CPC) code?
A CPC code, is a unique code used by customs authorities to classify goods being imported or exported. It serves to facilitate the application of various customs duties and policies, indicating the reason for the import or export.
How can I track my shipment?
Use our online tracking platform PIFtrack for 24/7 real time updates.

Do I need Marine insurance?

While not mandatory, we strongly recommend marine insurance to protect against loss, damage, or delay. If you do not have an marine insurance policy Pinnacle can arrange marine insurance for you.

What is limited liability?

Limited liability refers to the maximum amount a carrier or freight forwarder is legally responsible for in the event of loss, damage, or delay of goods—unless additional marine insurance is purchased.

Carrier liability is governed by international conventions and typically covers only a fraction of the cargo’s value. To ensure full protection, we recommend purchasing marine insurance based on the declared value of your goods.

How do I calculate import duties and taxes?

Duties are based on the commodity code, value, origin, and Incoterms. We can assist with accurate calculations.

What is a commodity code?

A commodity code classifies goods for customs and determines applicable duties and restrictions. (insert link to the tariff)
What is Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA)?

Postponed VAT account allows businesses to defer the payment of Import VAT on goods entering the UK. Instead of paying VAT upfront at the point of entry and then reclaiming on their next VAT return, importers can account for and report Import VAT on the same return, i.e. not pay anything out at all. This helps to improve cash flow, minimises deferment charges and reduces the financial exposure on businesses importing goods.

How do I track our CO₂ emissions?

We offer carbon reporting tools to help you monitor and reduce your logistics-related emissions. We can send out monthly, quarterly or annual reports, or you can view via our online tracking platform PIFtrack

What documents do I need for international shipping?

Typically, a commercial invoice, packing list, and transport document (AWB or B/L) are required. Additional documents may apply based on destination.

Can Pinnacle assist with customs clearance?

Yes, our experienced team handles all aspects of customs clearance to ensure smooth transit.
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