How to Choose Between FCL and LCL Freight

Virginia Miller

September 15, 2024

In this article

If you're a business owner who regularly ships freight, you've heard of both FCL and LCL shipping. But what do those acronyms stand for, and which one is right for your business? In this blog post, we'll break down the differences between FCL and LCL shipping so that you can make the best choice for your business. Stay tuned!

FCL vs LCL Shipping: Which Is Best For Your Business?

Deciding between full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL) shipping can be tricky. This guide explains the key differences and helps you choose the best option.

What is FCL and LCL Shipping?

With FCL shipping, you rent an entire 20 or 40-foot shipping container. Your products fill the whole container.

With LCL shipping, your goods share space in a container with other companies. You only pay for the portion of the container used.

Benefits of FCL Shipping

Lower Cost Per Item

FCL can cost less per item since you utilize the whole container.

Better Security

With an entire container, only your goods are handled, lowering risks of damage or loss.

More Control Over Packaging

FCL lets you package items as you see fit to minimize damage.

Benefits of LCL Shipping

Greater Flexibility

Only pay for the space needed. Easily ship smaller volumes cost-effectively.

Lower Cost Overall

Pay less in total by not renting a full container.

Less Effort

Skip challenges of filling and packing an entire container.

Reduce Risks

If goods are damaged or lost, the impact is lower than with a full container.

Deciding Between FCL and LCL

Consider these factors when choosing the best approach:

Product Type and Quantity

FCL works well for large volumes or delicate items. LCL suits smaller shipments.

Budget

LCL costs less overall. But FCL can provide lower cost per item with full container utilization.

Frequency

FCL makes sense for regular large shipments. Use LCL if shipping sporadically.

The More Affordable Option

For most small and medium businesses, LCL shipping provides the best value. You save money by only paying for the space utilized versus renting an entire container.

Get in touch with our logistics experts to determine if FCL or LCL is better suited for your shipping needs.

FAQs

What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping?

FCL shipping utilizes an entire 20 or 40-foot container for your goods. With LCL shipping, your products share space with other companies, and you only pay for part of the container.

When is FCL shipping the better choice?

FCL shipping makes sense when you have large volumes of products or delicate items requiring more care. It also works well if you ship regularly.

When is LCL shipping the better option?

LCL shipping is better for small or sporadic shipments. As you only pay for utilized space, it provides more flexibility and is very cost-effective for light shipping needs.

How can I decide between FCL vs LCL shipping?

Look at product types and volumes, budget, shipping frequency, and importance of security. Our experts can guide you in determining if FCL or LCL better fits your situation.

Is FCL or LCL shipping more affordable?

For most small and medium businesses shipping less than full container loads, LCL shipping provides better value since you save on costs.

What are the security differences between FCL and LCL?

FCL only handles your cargo, reducing risks of damage or lost items. With shared LCL containers, more handling opens security vulnerabilities.

How do FCL and LCL shipping prices compare?

FCL has lower cost per item with full container use. But LCL saves money overall by not renting excess unused space.