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Less-than-container-load (LCL) shipping describes ocean freight shipments of lower volume that do not require full-container capacity. Multiple shipments from different customers are grouped in order to create a consolidation, enabling cost advantages.
We offer LCL (less-than-container load) consolidation by combining shipments from multiple suppliers with the same consignee into a single FCL (full-container load).
For buyer’s consolidation, freight is trucked to our consolidation hubs and packed for export – We also provide seller’s consolidation – merging multiple lcl cargo loads from one origin into an FCL (full-container load) – then deconsolidated at the destination for delivery to various consignees.
Reliable transit times and punctual delivery of your LCL cargo to any location worldwide thanks to optimised processes and stable schedules.
We maintain control over the entire supply chain with available space, pickups and schedules.
Full openness about our service with no hidden costs as well as visibility of your shipment in the supply chain. With our web portal, you are able to track deliveries in real time and directly reduce the risk of potential problems.
Whether you’re shipping regularly or require extra services to meet your specific needs, we’ve got you covered with our personalised products and customised LCL shipping solutions.
Get in touch with our experts for comprehensive advice.
LCL stands for “less-than-container load” and describes sea freight shipments that do not completely fill a container. Several shipments from different customers are consolidated into one load, which enables cost advantages. LCL cargo shipping allows shippers with smaller volumes of freight to take advantage of container shipments without having to fill an entire container.
In contrast to LCL, FCL stands for “full-container load”, when a shipper has enough freight to fill an entire container and use it exclusively. The shipper rents the entire space in the container for its own goods, which means exclusive use of the container regardless of the cargo space used.
LCL cargo shipping prioritises direct transport and an optimal route with as few stops as possible. The estimated transit time is influenced by various factors such as overcrowded ports, container shortages, truck driver shortages or detours due to unforeseen events. Nevertheless, LCL shipping is considered very reliable thanks to preferential treatment by transport companies.
There is no size limit for general cargo as long as it fits into a standard container. FCL may, however, prove to be the cheaper option if the shipment exceeds a certain freight volume. In addition, not all goods can be shipped as less-than-container load, e.g. perishable goods, live animals and plants, valuables (jewelry and raw materials such as gold or platinum) as well as personal items, foreign exchange and securities, tobacco and cigarettes, vehicles, weapons, ammunition and specific classes of dangerous goods. If you are uncertain what your best option is, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further clarification about the cargo types suited to LCL containers.
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