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Less-than-container load shipping (LCLs) offers a cost-effective and dependable way to transport smaller quantities of goods. Our LCL solutions help reduce costs while giving you the flexibility, efficiency and reliability you need. Our customized solutions provide a seamless and hassle-free process.
LCL allows you to scale your business without the restrictions associated with full-container-load shipments. Whether you are a small, medium-sized or multinational company, LCL supports the sale and shipment of smaller quantities and enables adaptation to market demand. Furthermore, we offer goods collection and delivery throughout our Rhenus road network, combined with additional warehousing services, all seamlessly handled without relying on third-party providers.
Reliable transit times and on-time delivery to any global destination supported by optimized processes and stable schedules.
We keep full control of the entire supply chain through available capacity, pickups and scheduling.
Full transparency in our services with no hidden costs, combined with visibility of your shipment across the supply chain. Through our web portal, you can monitor deliveries in real time and directly minimize the risk of potential issues.
Whether you ship frequently or require extra services tailored to your specific needs, we provide support through personalized products and customized transport solutions.
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Our LCL consolidation service enables you to lower your emissions by up to 50 percent compared to diesel vehicles on routes between Europe and China, without any additional cost. Rhenus provides special rates and support for every sustainable journey.
Contact our experts for comprehensive advice.
LCL refers to “less-than-container load” and describes sea freight shipments that do not completely fill a container. Several shipments from various customers are combined into one load, resulting in cost benefits. This allows shippers with smaller freight volumes to benefit from container shipping without needing to fill an entire container.
As opposed to LCL, FCL stands for “full-container load”, where a shipper has sufficient freight to fill a complete container and use it exclusively. The shipper books the entire container space for its own cargo, providing exclusive use of the container regardless of how much cargo space is used.
LCL prioritizes direct transport and an optimal route with minimal stops. The estimated transit time depends on several factors including port congestion, container shortages, truck driver shortages or detours caused by unexpected events. However, LCL shipping is considered very reliable because of preferential treatment by transport companies.
For general cargo, there is no size limit as long as it can be accommodated within a standard container. FCL can, however, become the more economical choice if the shipment surpasses a certain freight volume. Additionally, not all goods are suitable for transport via LCL, for example perishable items, live animals and plants, valuables such as jewellery and raw materials including gold and platinum, along with personal belongings, foreign exchange and securities, tobacco and cigarettes, vehicles, weapons, ammunition and certain categories of dangerous goods. If you are uncertain about the best solution, please reach out to us for clarification.
