Less than Container Load (LCL)

Less than Container Load (LCL) is a shipping method where your cargo is consolidated with goods from other shippers into a shared container. This is the standard shipping method for smaller shipments that do not justify the cost of a full 20-foot or 40-foot container. LCL is priced per cubic meter (CBM) or per revenue ton (whichever is greater), with rates typically ranging from $30-$100 per CBM depending on the trade lane and season.

The LCL process works as follows: your goods are delivered to a Container Freight Station (CFS) at the origin port, where they are consolidated with other shippers' goods into a shared container. At the destination port, the container goes to the destination CFS, where it is deconsolidated and individual shipments are made available for pickup or delivery. This additional handling at both ends adds time (typically 3-7 extra days) and cost (CFS handling charges) compared to FCL.

LCL makes economic sense for shipments under approximately 15 CBM (cubic meters). Above that volume, an FCL container often becomes more cost-effective because you avoid CFS handling charges, reduce transit time, lower the risk of damage from co-loading with other cargo, and pay a fixed container rate regardless of how full it is. The break-even point between LCL and FCL depends on the specific trade lane and current freight rates.