What is LCL (Less than container load)?

In LCL, a forwarder or consolidator collects cargo from several shippers at a warehouse in China, packs it into one container and unpacks it at a warehouse near the US port of arrival. You pay for the space you use, usually per cubic meter or per 1,000 kg, whichever is greater (the W/M rule).

LCL suits shipments of a few pallets. The trade-offs are more handling, extra steps and fees at both ends that add time, and the risk that another shipper's cargo holds up the whole container at customs.

Packing matters more in LCL: use strong export cartons, palletize where possible and mark every piece. Consolidating goods from several of your suppliers into one shipment is often cheaper than sending each one as separate LCL.

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• Warehousing and consolidation
• CBM calculator