How to Choose Between FCL and LCL Freight

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!

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What Is FCL Freight, And What Is LCL Freight?

FCL stands for "full container load." This type of shipping is when your business fills an entire 20 or 40-foot container with your products. On the other hand, LCL stands for "less than a container load." This type of shipping is when your business shares a container with other firms shipping freight.

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The Benefits Of Using FCL Freight

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Low Transportation Cost

The shipping cost per unit is lower when using FCL freight because you're essentially renting out an entire container.

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Improved Security

When your products are shipped in a shared container, there's always the risk that other businesses' products could get mixed in with yours or damaged. When you send using FCL freight, you can ensure that your products stay safe and sound.

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Better Packaging

Since you have the entire container to yourself when using FCL freight, you can take the time to package your products correctly. It protects your products from damage and ensures that they arrive at their destination in perfect condition.

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Related: Here's What You Need To Know About Packaging Your Products For eCommerce fulfillment

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The Benefits Of Using LCL Freight

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Flexibility

One of the enormous benefits of using LCL freight is that it's much more flexible than FCL freight. If you only have a small shipment, you don't have to worry about paying for an entire container.

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Affordability

LCL freight is also an excellent option for businesses on a budget. Since you're only paying for the space, it's typically cheaper than shipping using FCL freight.

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Ease of Use

Another significant benefit of using LCL freight is that it's much easier to use. You don't have to worry about packaging your products correctly or filling an entire container. Pack your products and let the shipping company do the rest.

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Less Risk

Since you're only shipping a portion of the container, there's less risk involved if your products are damaged or lost in transit.

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How To Decide Which Type Of Freight Is Best For Your Needs

Now that you know the difference between FCL and LCL freight, it's time to decide which one is right for your business. Here are a few factors to consider:

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Type Of Products You're Shipping

If you're shipping large or delicate items, then FCL freight is probably your best bet. On the other hand, LCL freight might be a better option if you're shipping smaller items.

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Amount Of Products You're Shipping

FCL freight is probably your best bet if you have a large shipment. However, if you only have a small load, LCL freight might be a better option.

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Budget

If you're on a tight budget, LCL freight might be the best option. However, if you have a little more room in your budget, then FCL freight is probably your best bet.

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Shipping Frequency

LCL freight is probably your best bet if you only ship occasionally. However, FCL freight is perhaps your best bet if you send it regularly.

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Related: Cheapest Overnight Shipping Options for Retailers

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Comparing The Prices Of FCL And LCL Freight

Now that you know the difference between FCL and LCL freight, it's time to compare the prices. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

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Size Of The Container: The size of the container will affect the price of both FCL and LCL freight. A 20-foot container will typically cost less than a 40-foot container.

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Distance: The distance your shipment is going will also affect the price. The further the distance, the more it will cost.

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Weight: The weight of your shipment will also affect the price. The heavier the cargo, the more it will cost.

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A Number Of Items: The number of items you're shipping will also affect the price. The more things you're shipping, the more it will cost.

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As you can see, there are a few things to keep in mind when comparing the prices of FCL and LCL freight. But in general, FCL freight is usually more expensive than LCL freight.

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Which Type Of Freight Is More Affordable For Your Business?

Now that you know the difference between FCL and LCL freight, it's time to decide which one is more affordable for your business. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

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Type Of Products

If you're shipping large or delicate items, then FCL freight is probably your best bet. On the other hand, LCL freight might be a better option if you're shipping smaller items.

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Amount Of Products

FCL freight is probably your best bet if you have a large shipment. However, if you only have a small shipment, LCL freight might be a better option.

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Shipping Frequency

LCL freight is probably your best bet if you only ship occasionally. However, FCL freight is perhaps your best bet if you ship regularly.

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Conclusion

So, what's the difference between FCL and LCL shipping? In short, FCL shipping is better for businesses sending large quantities of goods, while LCL shipping is better for companies that only send a small number of goods. If you're unsure which option is right for you, don't worry – our team at Simpl fulfillment can help you choose the suitable shipping method and handle all the logistics. Contact us today to get started!

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Recommended: Importance of Freight Forwarding in your Business