LCL (Less than Container Load)

LCL stands for “less than container load.” The term is used when referring to small ocean freight shipments that do not require the full capacity of the shipping container. Most containers are either 20ft or 40ft in size. LCL allows carriers to consolidate shipments from various parties, and ship them in the same container.

If you are shipping goods in an ocean freight container, you will need to decide whether you want to ship LCL or FCL. Here are some of the pros and cons of this type of shipping.

The Benefits of LCL

Here are a few of the reasons why LCL can be a great shipment method.

You may save money on the shipment. Depending on the size of your shipment, LCL can be much cheaper than FCL. Because you will only pay for the volume of your goods, you won’t have to worry about any extortionate flat fees. This method is also much cheaper than air freight.

You will save on inventory space. LCL can also be a great way to save some money on inventory space. If you have rented space for your goods, you may find you need it less and less when you start using LCL. With LCL, you will be able to ship goods more frequently, and in smaller loads, so you’ll no longer need to pay for a large storage space.

Can be faster than FCL during peak seasons. FCL shipping involves paying for one entire container. During the peak season, this amount of space can be hard to find, and you may find yourself waiting for weeks before a container becomes available. With LCL, you are more likely to find availability for smaller spaces.

An eco-friendly option. LCL follows the principle of consolidation and sharing transport space with other shippers. It’s similar to taking a carpool to work. In this way, LCL is much better for the environment.

• LCL shipping is priced at $25–$75 per cubic meter, making it cost-effective for shipments under 10 CBM that don't justify booking a full 20- or 40-foot container.
• LCL international shipments take 2–6 weeks total, running 3–7 days longer than FCL due to consolidation, deconsolidation, and additional handling at origin and destination warehouses.
• LCL carriers must provide a bill of lading for each consolidated shipment; shared container loading increases handling touchpoints, raising damage risk compared to dedicated FCL transport.

The Downsides of LCL

While there are some great benefits to LCL, there are also a few drawbacks.

More expensive per cubic meter. Depending on how big your shipment is, you may end up paying more than the flat fee for FCL. LCL works best for smaller shipments.

Your shipment may be delayed. It’s possible that your container will run into more delays when you use LCL. Because you are sharing space with another shipment, if these other goods encounter customs delays, your goods will also be delayed. Shipments also need to be loaded and unloaded from the freight containers, which can add several days to the overall journey.

Your goods are more likely to be damaged. With LCL, your goods will be handled and moved around much more frequently than they would be with FCL. Bear this in mind if you are shipping particularly fragile items.

Can You Ship a Vehicle Using LCL?

Of course you can! In fact, vehicles are commonly shipped in consolidated containers along with other goods that are bound for the same destination. All of the benefits and downsides to LCL apply for vehicles as well. So, if you are in a rush, you may find that LCL won’t work for you. Or, alternatively, if you don’t mind waiting a little longer, save some money by opting for LCL.

Remember, goods shipped LCL have a higher risk of being damaged in the journey. Because your vehicle will be moved around more frequently, it may be dented or scratched in the process. Our carriers, however, are of the highest-quality, and damage is extremely rare. However, if you have a collectible car, you may wish to consider using FCL just in case.

Why Choose Us for Your LCL Shipment?

Here at A-1 Auto Transport, we have decades of experience in the auto shipping industry. We know everything there is to know about shipping a car safely and smoothly, so you won’t have to worry about any of the logistics or details.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we are committed to delivering a high-quality service. Our carriers are always fully licensed and fully insured, so you can relax knowing that your vehicle is in the best of hands. If you’re anxious about its progress, you can always check-in using our comprehensive GPS satellite system that tracks your vehicle in real-time.

Find Out More About Shipping LCL With A-1 Auto Transport

If you are interested in LCL shipping for your car, we can help! Based on your destination, your vehicle, and your budget, we can talk you through all of the shipment options and help you decide on the best one for you.

Try our free quote generator, or give us a call at 1-888-230-9116 to find out more about our LCL options.

FAQs About LCL Shipping

Still have some questions about how LCL shipping really works? Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about LCL.

How Much Does LCL Cost?

LCL shipment costs are determined by the volume of the shipment in cubic meters. The more space your goods take up in the container, the more expensive your shipment will be. You may also find that weight is taken into consideration.

Prices can vary depending on a wide variety of factors, including the length of the journey, the borders crossed, and the value of the goods.

If you want to learn more about our LCL options, please contact us today, and one of our knowledgeable customer service advisors will be able to give you a quote.

Can I Use LCL for Expedited Deliveries?

LCL tends to be a little slower than FCL. This is because other goods in the container can cause delays. The loading and unloading process is also far more complex with LCL, and can often add a few extra days to your journey.

If you are hoping to ship your vehicle quickly, LCL can sometimes be a good option, if you’re lucky. We can help you to find a free container on the correct route that leaves as soon as possible. However, if there aren’t any upcoming departures, you may wish to ship FCL to reduce your waiting time.

How Should I Prepare for an LCL Shipment?

Once you’ve booked the shipment, you will be notified of a time slot when your carrier will arrive to collect your vehicle. Because LCL shipments operate on a fixed schedule, it’s important that you don’t miss this pick-up slot.

Be sure to follow our instructions regarding vehicle preparation, and have any paperwork ready to go. If you’re unsure about anything, give us a call, and someone from the team will be able to help.

How Long Will LCL Take?

It’s hard to say exactly how long your LCL shipment will take because there is a wide range of factors that will determine the timing of your delivery. You’ll have to consider the journey distance, the number of border crossings on the route, and factor in some time for loading other goods into the container.

Remember, you can always use our tracking system to follow your car’s journey in real-time. This way, you’ll be notified of any unexpected delays as soon as possible. This system will give you peace of mind too.