Reading time: ~5 minutes
Introduction: The Hidden Expense of Half-Empty Containers
Rising bunker surcharges, port-congestion fees, and carbon levies have sent ocean-freight invoices sky-high. Yet many businesses still ship part-filled containers, paying for air and generating needless emissions. CEXN’s Consolidation Service merges multiple suppliers’ cargo into a single, optimised load—slashing per-unit freight cost while accelerating customs clearance.
1. The Maths Behind Consolidation Savings
| Scenario | 40 ft Container Utilisation | Cost per m³ |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional single-supplier | 55 % | £94 |
| CEXN consolidated | 95 % | £54 |
By lifting utilisation from 55 % to 95 %, clients typically cut ocean charges 15-30 % and reduce CO₂ per tonne shipped by up to 38 %.
2. Consolidation Shortens Transit Time, Too
Multiple part-loads mean multiple paperwork sets and vessel bookings. CEXN issues one master bill of lading, one customs entry, and one delivery schedule—eliminating hand-off delays that add days at trans-shipment hubs.
3. Overcoming Common Objections
| Objection | Reality with CEXN |
|---|---|
| “Fragile goods will mix with heavy items.” | AI load-planning assigns weight zones, dunnage, and shock sensors. |
| “My suppliers ship from different ports.” | We cross-dock at regional hubs to converge cargo before sailing. |
| “Consolidation complicates duty payments.” | Harmonised tariff coding means one duty assessment, one payment, zero surprises. |
Success Story: 22 % Freight Savings in a Single Quarter
Meridian Construction imported steel coils, timber, and fixings from three Asian vendors. By switching to CEXN Consolidation they:
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Increased utilisation from 60 % to 96 %
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Saved £68 400 in Q2 freight spend
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Cut shipment CO₂ e by 190 tonnes
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Cleared customs 48 hours faster thanks to a single documentation package
How to Start Consolidating with CEXN
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List your suppliers and shipment frequencies.
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Request a consolidation load plan via the Get Freight Quote form.
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Approve the schedule—we handle pick-ups, cross-docking, and repacking.
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Track merged cargo in real time through the CEXN portal.
Tip — bundle credit terms: pair consolidation with our 30 / 60 / 90-day payment schedules, so freight savings boost cash flow even further.
Final Thoughts
Paying premium rates for half-empty boxes is yesterday’s logistics model. Consolidated shipping turns multiple small headaches into one streamlined, cost-effective movement—protecting margins and the planet. Ready to ship smarter? Enquire Now and see how much you can save on your next order.
Author: CEXN Editorial Team