Move smaller sea freight shipments regularly — without waiting for a full load

LCL (Less than Container Load)

What is LCL?

LCL (Less than Container Load) means your freight shares space in a container with other shipments. It’s ideal for smaller volumes that need to move frequently without waiting to build a full container.

How LCL Works

  • Consolidation: Your cargo is combined with others at the origin warehouse.
  • Ocean leg: Moves as part of a container alongside other consignments.
  • Deconsolidation: Separated at the destination CFS/warehouse for final delivery.

Pricing Basics

FactorHow it affects cost
Volume (CBM)Primary driver; minimums often apply
HandlingConsolidation & deconsolidation fees
Lane & ServiceOrigin/destination, frequency, carrier

Pros & Considerations

  • Pros: Lower entry cost, frequent departures, good for steady replenishment.
  • Considerations: Extra handling steps, possible longer dwell time than FCL.

How Clintopia Helps

We coordinate LCL ocean moves and reliable UK delivery through Container Haulage. For ocean schedules and options, see Sea Freight.

For complete door-to-door coordination, see our Freight Forwarding service.

Related terms

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