Stückgut

Stückgut, literally "piece goods" in German, is a freight category for goods that are packaged and transported as discrete units rather than as bulk commodities. Typical Stückgut consists of boxes, cartons, crates or palletized loads that can be handled and billed as individual pieces. The term is common in German-speaking logistics and serves as the counterpart to mass goods or bulk cargo (Massengut).

In practice, Stückgut shipments are often consolidated from multiple shippers into a single movement, a process known as groupage or less-than-truckload (LTL) transport. Freight forwarders collect pieces at regional nodes, assemble them into a common transport unit (such as a container or truckload), and later deconsolidate at the destination for final delivery.

Handling requires standardized packaging, clear labeling, and accompanying documentation. Each piece is described in packing lists, waybills or bills of lading, and manifests; shipments usually carry commercial invoices and, where applicable, certificates of origin and customs papers. Pallets, cartons, and crates are typical packaging; secure strapping and accurate weight and dimension data help prevent damage and misrouting.

Modal scope spans road, rail, sea, and air transport. Stückgut is particularly common in road and rail networks, where groupage services connect small consignments into mixed loads. When containers are involved, Stückgut may be part of less-than-container-load (LCL) movements, with deconsolidation at the destination.

Advantages include flexibility for small volumes and efficient utilization of transport capacity. Disadvantages include longer transit times, more handling and documentation, and a higher risk of damage or loss if packaging or labeling is inadequate.