Less Than Container Load, or LCL for short, is a part of our range of ocean freight solutions. LCL is the optimal solution for consignees who wish to ship cargo that is not large enough to fill an entire container or is below the weight and quantity at which freight rates apply. An LCL shipment is consolidated at a container freight station before being transported to the container yard at the origin port and deconsolidated at the destination.
LCL is particularly beneficial for businesses that do not want to rely on an intermediary for handling their cargo and have the resources to pick and drop off their cargo from the warehouse where the shipment is loaded and unloaded.
An advantage of opting for an LCL is that it allows for more accessible delivery appointments and allows your cargo to receive more “free time.” This means that the load will spend about five days at the port before reaching the deconsolidation destination. This enables consignees to get a delivery appointment before the fee ensues.
Furthermore, LCLs are viable logistical solutions for smaller orders and shipments that reduce investment in inventory management and allow businesses more flexibility in terms of resources.
There are, however, some drawbacks to choosing an LCL. An LCL shipment is more expensive in CBM rates and poses a higher risk for damage during transit if other consignments in the container are not packed properly. A business choosing an LCL shipment also needs to account for possible delays while waiting for other consignments to be grouped in the container or if the cargo is waiting for customs clearance due to another company’s freight.
To book an LCL with Cargo Shipping International, contact our agents. Our team can help you find the best logistical solution for your shipment, bearing in mind the aspects of transportation, warehousing, cargo consolidation, and documentation.
