LCL vs FCL: Which Shipping Method Should You Choose?
|The Two Main Ocean Shipping Methods
When shipping goods from China via ocean freight, you have two primary options: LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load). Choosing the right one can save you thousands of dollars.
|LCL โ Share a Container
Your cargo is consolidated with other shippers' cargo in one shared container. You pay only for the space you use.
Best for: Shipments under 15 CBM (~500 kg minimum)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower minimum cost | Higher per-CBM rate |
| Pay only for your space | Longer handling (consolidation) |
| Great for testing products | More handling = higher damage risk |
| Suitable for regular small orders | Potential delays from other shippers |
|FCL โ Your Own Container
You rent an entire container. Common sizes:
| Container | Volume | Max Weight | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | ~33 CBM | 28,000 kg | $2,000-$3,500 |
| 40ft Standard | ~67 CBM | 28,000 kg | $3,000-$5,000 |
| 40ft High Cube | ~76 CBM | 28,000 kg | $3,500-$5,500 |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower per-CBM cost | Higher minimum cost |
| Faster transit (no consolidation) | Need enough volume to justify |
| Less handling = less damage | Pay for full container even if not full |
| You control packing arrangement |
|The Breakeven Point
FCL becomes cheaper than LCL at around 15 CBM โ approximately half a 20ft container.
| Volume | LCL Cost (est.) | FCL 20ft Cost | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 CBM | $750 | $2,500 | LCL |
| 10 CBM | $1,500 | $2,500 | LCL |
| 15 CBM | $2,250 | $2,500 | About equal |
| 20 CBM | $3,000 | $2,500 | FCL |
| 30 CBM | $4,500 | $2,500 | FCL |
If your shipment is 12-18 CBM, get quotes for both LCL and FCL. Sometimes FCL is cheaper even for smaller volumes due to LCL surcharges and handling fees.
|Our Recommendation
Start with LCL for your first shipment to test the process and minimize risk. Once you're importing regularly or have enough volume, switch to FCL for better economics.
At Doge Consulting, we offer both LCL and FCL options. Use our CBM calculator at doge-consulting.com/tools/cbm-calculator to estimate your volume, then get a free quote.
Doge Consulting Team
Sourcing & Logistics Experts ยท Meet the Team
Our team has helped hundreds of businesses import goods from China. We specialize in door-to-door shipping, customs clearance, and product sourcing from China's manufacturing regions.
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