LCL consolidation and deconsolidation
Less than container load (LCL) means your cargo shares a container with other shippers' cargo. Consolidation is loading the parts into one container. Deconsolidation is unloading and splitting them at the destination. We book the space and coordinate both ends.
What it is
LCL stands for less than container load. You pay for the space your cargo uses, measured in cubic metres (CBM) or weight, instead of paying for a whole container.
Cargo goes to a container freight station (CFS), a warehouse where parts are loaded into a shared container. At the other end, another CFS unloads the container and sorts the parts for each consignee. Because cargo is handled twice, packing and marking matter more than in FCL.
When to use it
- Your cargo is too small for a full container.
- You ship in smaller, more frequent lots and do not want to wait to fill a container.
- You buy from several suppliers and bring each lot in separately.
- You are testing a new product or market with a first, small order.
What we handle
- Booking LCL space and arranging delivery of your cargo to the CFS
- Checking marks, labels and cargo against the documents
- Consolidation into the container, and deconsolidation at destination
- Shipping documents and customs declarations, coordinated with licensed customs brokers
- Delivery from the destination CFS
How it runs
- Quote: you send the packages, dimensions and weights, and we price the space on a CBM or weight basis.
- Booking: we confirm space and send the CFS name, the cargo receiving deadline and the booking reference.
- Delivery to the CFS: your cargo goes in by the deadline, and the CFS records what it received.
- Consolidation: the CFS loads your cargo with other shippers' cargo, and the container goes to the port.
- Deconsolidation and release: at destination, the CFS unloads and sorts the cargo, and we coordinate collection or delivery once charges and customs are settled.
What to send us for a quote
| Detail | Why we ask |
|---|---|
| Cargo description | To check it can share a container and flag special handling |
| Number of packages | The CFS counts packages on receipt |
| Dimensions per package | Used to work out the CBM |
| Weight per package | LCL is usually charged on whichever is greater, volume or weight |
| Total CBM | The base figure for the space quote |
Good to know
- LCL is commonly charged per CBM or per tonne, whichever gives the higher figure, usually with a minimum charge. Work out CBM with our CBM calculator.
- Destination charges often include CFS handling and deconsolidation fees on top of the freight. Ask for them in the quote.
- Mark every carton clearly with consignee and package number, and keep the marks the same on every document. Unmarked cargo is the main cause of delay at a CFS.
Questions
How do I know if LCL or FCL is cheaper?
It depends on volume, route and the charges on the day. We can quote both for the same cargo. Our FCL vs LCL guide explains the trade-off.
Can I mix goods from different suppliers?
Yes, if each lot reaches the CFS with its own marks and documents. We can coordinate this across suppliers.