Consolidated shipments from China: Difference between FCL and LCL shipments

What are consolidated shipments?

Consolidated shipments are a method of transportation where cargo belonging to different companies is combined in a single container. This model is especially suitable for low-volume cargo. For example, if you order a small quantity of products from China and renting a full container is not cost-effective, your cargo is combined in the same container with the cargo of other companies. In such cases, consolidated shipments from China are considered the most optimal solution, as they optimize costs for low-volume shipments.
Two main models are used in this type of transportation: FCL and LCL. When planning consolidated shipments from China, it is important to correctly choose which model is more cost-effective for you.

What is FCL?

FCL (Full Container Load) is a type of shipment where the container is fully allocated for a single customer. In this case, the container is used only for the cargo of one company. From the moment the cargo leaves the warehouse until it reaches the destination address, it remains in the same container. Inside, there are only your goods; they are not mixed with the cargo of other companies. Especially in consolidated shipments from China, FCL is more advantageous for companies with large-volume and regular shipments.

Advantages of FCL:

Placing only your products in the container increases the level of security and reduces the risk of damage and loss. When documentation is carried out between a single sender and a single receiver, the process becomes simpler and the overall workflow speeds up. When the cargo is tracked as a single unit, control over loading and unloading becomes more stable, and all stages are managed more clearly. Companies that ship large and uniform batches of products achieve more convenient management with FCL.

What is LCL?

LCL (Less than Container Load) is a type of shipment used for cargo that does not fill the container completely. In this case, cargo belonging to different companies is placed in the same container. The cost is calculated based on the volume or weight of the cargo. Within the framework of consolidated shipments from China, the LCL model is mostly chosen for small and medium-volume cargo.

Advantages of LCL:

LCL is more economical for low-volume cargo and allows transportation even when the container is not completely full. The consolidation of cargo from different suppliers in the same container makes it possible to monitor and manage the shipment from a single point. For companies that are just starting out in this field or placing test orders, LCL is a more flexible and cost-effective option.

Differences between FCL and LCL:

In FCL shipments, the container is allocated only for the cargo of one company, and a full container is rented. Regardless of the amount of cargo, the payment is calculated for the entire container. In LCL shipments, the same container is shared by several companies. In this case, you pay only for the volume or weight occupied by your cargo.

Since the container in FCL belongs to a single company, management is more convenient and control is more systematic. In LCL shipments, cargo from different companies is first consolidated in one container and then distributed to separate addresses.

Both types of shipment offer solutions tailored to different needs. By cooperating with 166 Global Logistics for consolidated shipments from China, you can enjoy the convenience of having your cargo delivered from China safely, cost-effectively and in a short time.