Less Than Container (LCL)

LCL (Less Than Container Load) consolidates your cargo with other shippers in a shared container. It's ideal for shipments under 15 CBM that don't justify a full container. You pay only for the space you use.

LCL typically adds 5–7 days to the total transit time compared to FCL, due to consolidation at origin and deconsolidation at destination. For example, China to US West Coast is 20–25 days LCL vs. 14–18 days FCL.

No strict minimum — we can handle shipments as small as 1 CBM. However, very small shipments (under 2 CBM) may be more cost-effective via air freight depending on the trade lane.

LCL is priced per CBM (cubic meter) or per ton (1,000 kg), whichever yields the higher freight charge. This is called the weight/measure ratio. We provide all-in quotes including origin charges, ocean freight, and destination handling.

Yes. All LCL cargo is properly secured, palletized, and separated within the container. We work with reputable CFS (Container Freight Station) operators at both origin and destination who follow strict handling procedures.

LCL has no strict minimum, but most carriers have a minimum billing of 1 cubic meter (1 CBM) or 1 ton. Shipments smaller than 1 CBM may be charged at the 1 CBM rate. For very small shipments under 0.5 CBM, courier or express freight might be more cost-effective.

LCL typically adds 5-10 days to total transit time compared to FCL on the same route. This additional time accounts for consolidation at origin (2-4 days), deconsolidation at destination (2-4 days), and potential warehouse handling delays. Ocean transit time itself is the same for both.

LCL rates are calculated per weight/measure (W/M) — meaning per cubic meter or per metric ton, whichever produces the higher freight charge. For example, if your shipment is 3 CBM and 0.5 tons, you'll be charged for 3 units. Additional charges include origin and destination handling, documentation fees, and customs clearance.

Yes. LCL cargo is professionally consolidated by certified CFS (Container Freight Station) operators. Your cargo is separated from other shippers' goods using dividers and proper stowage techniques. We recommend proper export packaging and palletization to provide extra protection during handling and transit.

As a rule of thumb, FCL becomes more cost-effective when your shipment exceeds 10-15 CBM (about one-third to half a 20ft container). However, the exact breakpoint depends on the specific trade lane, current FCL and LCL rates, and shipment weight. We run cost comparisons to determine the optimal mode for each shipment.