LCL – Less than Container Load
Everything about groupage container shipping: definition, process, costs, CBM calculator, LCL vs FCL and packaging guidelines – the complete LCL guide.
40%
of all sea freight shipments are LCL
4–5 days
longer than FCL (CFS processing)
from 1 CBM
no minimum volume required
What is LCL?
LCL (Less than Container Load) means multiple shippers share container space. Each shipper pays only for the space used (per CBM or ton). Shipments are consolidated at the origin CFS and deconsolidated at the destination CFS. Ideal for shipments below approx. 14 CBM.
LCL Advantages
- No minimum volume – bookable from 1 CBM
- Pay only for space used (per CBM/ton)
- Cost-effective for shipments under ~14 CBM
- More frequent departures than FCL on many routes
- More CO₂-efficient through shared container utilization
LCL CBM Cost Calculator
Enter your shipment volume and instantly see whether LCL or FCL is cheaper.
LCL Process – 8 Steps
From booking to delivery – this is how an LCL shipment works.
LCL Cost Components
LCL prices consist of several components. Unlike FCL, everything is calculated per CBM/ton.
Main cost driver – calculated per CBM or ton (whichever is higher). Typical USD 30–80/CBM depending on route and season.
Consolidation fee at origin CFS: goods receipt, measuring, weighing, photographing, loading and sealing.
Deconsolidation fee at destination CFS: unloading, sorting, checking and making shipment available for consignee.
Costs for issuing the House B/L by the NVOCC/forwarder and other documentation fees.
Customs duties per shipment, import VAT and customs broker fee. For LCL per shipment, not per container.
Transport from shipper to origin CFS and from destination CFS to consignee.
LCL Packaging Guidelines
Correct packaging protects your goods and prevents damage costs – especially important for LCL.
LCL vs. FCL – Direct Comparison
The key differences at a glance – so you can make the right choice.
| Criterion | LCL | FCL |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum volume | ✓from 1 CBM | approx. 14–30 CBM |
| Cost below 14 CBM | ✓Cheaper | More expensive (empty space) |
| Transit time | 4–5 days longer (CFS) | ✓Faster |
| Security / Damage risk | Higher risk (handling) | ✓Sealed, less handling |
| Container type | Shared container (groupage) | Exclusive container |
| Documentation | House B/L + Master B/L | Bill of Lading (B/L) |
| CO₂ efficiency | ✓Better (shared utilization) | Better at full utilization |
LCL Documents Checklist
These documents are required for an LCL sea freight shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about LCL
Key Terms in Glossary
More Sea Freight Topics
FCL – Full Container Load
Process, costs, FCL vs LCL calculator
Container Types & Dimensions
20ft, 40ft, HC, Reefer, Flat Rack
Container Markings & Prefixes
BIC code, carrier prefixes, CSC plate
Sea Freight Overview
All topics at a glance
Documents & B/L
Bill of Lading, Letter of Credit, T1, ENS, AMS explained
Transit Times & Main Routes
Port-to-port transit times, Suez, Panama, all routes