What do FCL and LCL actually mean?
With FCL, your goods are the only cargo in the container – either a 20-foot, 40-foot, or 40-foot HC (a container 1 foot higher than standard) and it is sealed at the point of origin and opened only when it arrives at the destination. With LCL, your goods are shipped in a shared container with other cargo.
What’s the cost difference between FCL and LCL?
For FCL, you’ll pay an all‑in container rate from origin to destination. On top of that, there are fees for terminal handling, customs clearance, documentation, and surcharges. With LCL, instead of an all-in container price, you pay for the proportion of the container you use. Freight forwarders use the higher value between your cargo's weight (in metric tons) and its volume (in CBM) to calculate the base sea freight cost. You’ll have to pay a portion of the fees mentioned above for FCL, plus some additional charges for consolidation/deconsolidation and local delivery.
Basically, FCL charges are centred on port/terminal fees and haulage, whereas LCL often includes more line items at the destination. Roughly speaking, FCL becomes the more cost-effective option for loads exceeding 12-18 cubic metres, but there are multiple factors to consider. If you work with CECL, we’ll put together a like‑for‑like comparison, including freight, surcharges, customs duties, and delivery, so you can pick the best option for your specific shipment.
Which type of container load is fastest and most reliable?
The benefit of FCL shipments is that they usually move on direct services with fewer handoffs, reducing the risk of delays and making shipping time much more predictable. The extra steps involved in an LCL shipment: origin consolidation, destination devanning, potential Container Freight Station backlogs, and rollovers in peak season all contribute to the likelihood of delays. So, if on-time delivery is critical for your shipment, then FCL is usually the best bet, even if it comes at a higher cost.
Are there security or risk differences between FCL and LCL?
Fewer handling points and the fact that the container is sealed from origin to the entry point make FCL shipments inherently more secure. Damage or short delivery is marginally more likely with LCL – but it’s important to state that it’s not a huge difference. Ensuring robust packing and clear labelling, as well as having the correct insurance coverage, makes the two options about equal in risk for most cargo. However, high‑value, fragile, or branded goods might benefit from the added security of FCL.
What are the documentation and customs implications for FCL vs LCL?
As you might expect, the required documentation for an FCL shipment is simpler – usually one master and one house bill of lading per container, and one customs entry. For LCL, as there’s cargo from multiple shippers in the same container, it’s a bit more complex. Each shipment has its own customs entry and destination charges, and there’s one master bill of lading with multiple house bills. That can sometimes lead to LCL shipments experiencing delays – although at CECL, we’ll work with you to ensure the paperwork aligns with Incoterms and customs valuation to mitigate this risk.
Which method is better for special cargo?
If you’re shipping special cargo, FCL is almost always the best option. For dangerous goods, you’ll likely face more restrictions and higher costs if you go down the LCL route. For temperature-controlled shipping, FCL (using refrigerated or “reefer” units) is the best way to ensure integrity and compliance. And if you’re shipping oversize or out-of-gauge goods, that’s usually going to require FCL – using special equipment such as a flat rack or open-top container.
Need help deciding? Speak to CECL.
As we’ve said, although there are a few rules of thumb to determine whether a shipment will be cheaper, quicker, or safer via LCL or FCL, it comes down to the exact shipment you’re planning, the type of goods, the route, the deadline, and many other factors.
To get a clear picture of your best option, speak to CECL. We’ll provide you with side‑by‑side quotes, transit modelling, and notes on risks or potential delays, all explained in plain English. Plus packing, documentation, and delivery plans matched to your needs.
FAQs – FCL versus LCL
Here are answers to common questions about FCL versus LCL – if there’s anything else you need to know, give CECL a call.
When is FCL cheaper than LCL?
In general, for higher-volume shipments over 12-18 CBM, FCL is a more cost-effective choice, but this varies by trade lane, and there are seasonal cost differences as well. Speak to CECL for a specific comparison based on your planned shipment.
Is LCL riskier than FCL?
To an extent. LCL involves more handling points, so this increases the risk of something going wrong – but thorough packing and using a reputable consolidator can mitigate this. However, people shipping high‑value or fragile items often opt for the added security and end-to-end sealing that FCL offers.
Can I switch from LCL to FCL mid‑project?
Of course! It’s common for shippers to start with LCL and move to FCL as their business and shipping volumes grow. Talk to CECL about choosing the right method for your business today, and how to scale up when you need to.
Are destination charges higher for LCL?
Typically, yes, due to CFS/handling and documentation line items. It’s important you have sight of all the relevant costs so you can calculate margins accurately. At CECL, we provide you with a comprehensive, itemised estimate up front, so there are no unwelcome surprises.
What if my shipment is time‑critical?
When your shipment simply must be there on time, FCL is the go-to for predictability and lower risk of delay. We can also give you a cost comparison with other priority services, including air or road freight, which might be the better option depending on your deadline.
