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Cost Indicator
Sea Freight Cost Calculator
Cost indicator for LCL & FCL – from anywhere to anywhere
What do the results mean?
LCL – Less than Container Load
Multiple shippers share one container. Payment only for space used (per CBM). Ideal below ~14 CBM. Transit time is longer due to CFS handling at both ends.
FCL – Full Container Load
One shipper rents the whole container. Fixed cost regardless of volume. Sealed, faster, safer. From ~14 CBM usually cheaper than LCL. 20ft for up to 28 CBM / 25 t, 40ft for up to 67 CBM.
Transit times: FCL = direct sea transit (port to port). LCL = including CFS warehouse time at origin and destination (+5–10 days). All values are market averages for guidance only.
Detailed Guides
Calculate Sea Freight Rates – FCL, LCL and Surcharges Explained
Sea freight costs consist of the base rate (ocean freight) plus a series of surcharges that vary by route, carrier, and season. The vast majority of world trade goods are transported by sea – over 80% by tonnage. Understanding the rate structure is essential for accurate budget planning.
The distinction is between FCL (Full Container Load – dedicated container) and LCL (Less than Container Load – consolidated container). FCL offers more control and security; LCL is economical for smaller shipments under approximately 15 CBM.
Container Types and Capacities
| Type | Payload |
|---|---|
| 20' Dry (TEU) | 28,000 kg |
| 40' Dry (FEU) | 26,500 kg |
| 40' High Cube | 26,500 kg |
| 40' Reefer | 26,000 kg |
| 20' Open Top | 28,000 kg |
| 40' Flat Rack | 40,000 kg |
Sea Freight Surcharges Overview
BAF / BSCBunker Adjustment / SurchargeVariable
Fuel cost component. The most important variable in sea freight prices. Reported separately by shipping lines.
THCTerminal Handling ChargeFixed/TEU
Loading/unloading costs at port terminal. Applies at port of loading and discharge (OTHC + DTHC).
CAFCurrency Adjustment Factor0–10%
Compensation for currency fluctuations, especially relevant for USD-denominated routes.
PSS / GRIPeak Season / General Rate IncreaseVariable
Seasonal surcharges. PSS typically October–December on Far East routes. GRI on general tariff increases.
ISS / ISPSInternational Ship/Port SecurityFixed
Security levy under the ISPS Code. Applies worldwide to all container transport.
AWB / Doc FeeDocumentation feeFixed
Costs for B/L (Bill of Lading), certificate of origin, letter of credit documents.
FCL vs. LCL – When Is Which Option Cheaper?
The boundary between LCL and FCL typically lies at 15–18 CBM or approximately 10–12 tonnes:
< 5 CBM→ LCL
Consolidated container clearly cheaper; billing per CBM + W/M
5–12 CBM→ LCL or FCL
Quote comparison recommended; note LCL upcharges (CFS, sorting)
12–18 CBM→ FCL (20')
20' container usually cheaper; more control, no co-mingling risk
> 25 CBM→ FCL (40')
40' container clearly more economical; most direct option
Transit Times on Main Trade Routes
| Route | Transit time |
|---|---|
| Europe – China / Far East | 25–35 days |
| Europe – USA East Coast | 12–18 days |
| Europe – USA West Coast | 22–28 days |
| Europe – South America | 18–28 days |
| China – USA | 14–20 days |
| Intra-Europe (Mediterranean) | 5–10 days |
FAQ
What is the difference between FCL and LCL?▼
FCL (Full Container Load) means you exclusively lease the entire container. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your goods are consolidated with other shipments in one container. FCL offers more security (no contact with other goods), LCL is cheaper for small volumes.
How are sea freight costs calculated?▼
Base: Ocean Freight Rate (per TEU/FEU or per CBM/tonne for LCL). Plus: THC (origin + destination), BAF, CAF, documentation fees, PSS if applicable. Total costs can be 40–80% above the base rate.
Which route should I choose for Europe–China?▼
Standard: Via Suez Canal (25–35 days, cheapest option). Alternative via Cape of Good Hope (38–45 days, more expensive but independent of Suez risks). Increasingly relevant since 2024 due to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
What is a B/L (Bill of Lading)?▼
The Bill of Lading is the sea freight document. It serves simultaneously as a receipt of goods, freight contract, and document of title. Original B/L: required to collect goods at the destination port. Seaway Bill: non-documentary equivalent, faster processing.
How far in advance do I need to book?▼
FCL: at least 2–3 weeks before sailing (note CRD – Container Return Date). LCL: 1–2 weeks. During peak season (Aug–Nov) allow 3–4 weeks. VGM weight declaration must be submitted before sailing.