What does LCL mean?
The definition of LCL means a shipment of ‘Less than container load’. This means that because you have one or a few pallets of goods to ship, you do not have enough cargo to get the competitive shipping rates offered. Hence, your freight forwarder arranges ‘LCL shipping’ or ‘group shipping’. In this case, your goods will be grouped together with others to fill up full containers, to be shipped along the same shipping route.
How does LCL work?
Because of the revolutionising of sea freight, the introduction of standard stackable shipping containers has made carrying and transporting cargo much more convenient. Majority of non-bulk goods are containerised by optimising the filling of containers. This is done by grouping the smaller cargo into a larger and more cost effective one before fitting them into containers. Pallets are used to load the containers.
How is LCL Shipping priced?
Most freight companies price their LCL shipment based on the package measurements and density. Usually a standard unit of cubic meter measurement (cbm) is used and you will be charged based on this even for a very small shipment. Cubic meter measurement is also converted to chargeable shipping weight using standard conversions set by the shippers: 1 cbm = 500kg. The actual weight of the goods is compared against this, and the higher pricing is taken.
What other factors do I have to take note of when using LCL ocean services?
Duration of Shipping
The duration for LCL shipping generally takes the same time as regular shipping. However, a last minute LCL customer may get a nice spot to fill in the remaining space of a container about to depart. Uncommon routes and destinations which do not have regular shipping to may be inconvenient.
Packaging Requirements
Your pallets holding your goods have to match the international shipping standards in terms of size and measurements. This is standardized for all pallets in the same container and ship. Another packaging requirement would be secured wrapping and labelling for the receiving country.
Why choose M&P International Freight?
M&P International Freight gives competitive pricing for all ocean freight including LCL shipment. They have a team of dedicated staff and tools to get your cargo onboard that space in the container efficiently. They will advise you the required pallet, whether you might need fumigated, heat treated or plastic pallets. Rest assured that you and your cargo, no matter the size, will undergo a smooth experience.