Freight: meaning, definitions and examples

Freight is typically used when referring to the transportation of goods, especially in large quantities, by vehicles such as trucks, trains, or ships. It often implies the commercial aspect of transporting goods.

• The company specializes in freight services for heavy machinery.
• Freight costs have increased due to rising fuel prices.

Cargo is used to describe goods that are being transported, especially by ship or plane. It's a broad term that can be used in both everyday and professional contexts.

• The cargo hold of the airplane was loaded with perishables.
• The ship is carrying various cargo including electronics and textiles.

Shipment is used when referring to goods that are being sent or delivered, particularly focusing on the process and stages of sending the goods. It is commonly used in logistics and supply chain contexts.

• The shipment of medical supplies will arrive tomorrow.
• We need to track the shipment to ensure it arrives on time.

Load refers to the amount of goods or items being transported, often emphasizing the quantity or weight. It can be used in more casual or specific situations involving any kind of transportation.

• The truck had a heavy load of bricks.
• Ensure the load is secured properly before driving.

Utilized in large-scale commercial or industrial settings referring to the goods being transported.

• The company specializes in the freight of raw materials.
• Heavy freight is often shipped by rail.

Appropriate for the logistics of moving items over long distances, often internationally, and usually in a commercial setting.

• We need to ship these products to Europe by the end of the month.
• The company ships goods worldwide.

A more general term fit for both commercial and non-commercial contexts, emphasizing the act of moving items from one place to another.

• They use trucks to transport agricultural products.
• Please transport these boxes to the storage room.

Commonly used in casual or less formal contexts for smaller items or non-commercial purposes.

• Can you send me the documents by email?
• I will send her a birthday gift next week.