What FCL and LCL mean
With FCL you book a whole container for your goods only. It is sealed at origin and opened at destination. With LCL your cargo shares a container with other shippers: a forwarder consolidates it at a container freight station (CFS) and separates it again at destination.
How each is priced
FCL is priced per container, whatever you load inside. LCL is priced per revenue ton (W/M): 1 cubic metre or 1,000 kg, whichever is greater. LCL also carries extra handling charges at both CFS warehouses.
Time and handling
LCL usually takes longer than FCL on the same lane, because cargo waits for consolidation and deconsolidation. It is also handled more, which matters for fragile goods. FCL has fewer touch points and a more predictable schedule.
When to choose which
- LCL: small volumes, typically below about 13–15 m³; samples; first orders; regular small replenishments.
- FCL: larger volumes, fragile or high-value goods, tight schedules, or cargo you want sealed from origin to destination.
- Compare both near the break-even point: depending on the lane and current rates, a half-full 20ft can already cost less than LCL.
Groupage by road
In Europe “groupage” is also used for road freight: part loads (LTL) consolidated with other shippers on one truck, priced by weight, volume or loading metre. It is the usual choice for one or a few pallets between EU countries.
Frequently asked questions
What does LCL mean in shipping?
Less than container load: your goods share a container with other shippers and you pay for the space you use, measured in cubic metres or tonnes.
Is LCL cheaper than FCL?
For small shipments, usually yes. As volume grows the per-cubic-metre cost of LCL overtakes a dedicated container; compare both once you approach 13–15 m³.
What is W/M?
Weight or measure: LCL is charged on 1 m³ or 1,000 kg, whichever is greater.