LCL shipping and consolidation
Total Connection arranges less than container load ocean shipments for cargo that does not fill a container: space in a consolidated container priced by cubic meter, with pickup, CFS receiving, documentation and destination delivery handled, and dangerous goods accepted where the consolidator and lane allow.
What LCL shipping involves
LCL cargo is delivered to a container freight station, consolidated with other shippers' freight into a full container, and deconsolidated at a CFS near the destination. You pay for the volume your cargo occupies rather than for the whole container.
Total Connection books the consolidation, arranges pickup to the origin CFS, prepares the documents and coordinates destination CFS release and delivery.
When LCL makes sense
- Shipments under roughly 12 pallets or 15 cubic meters
- Samples, spare parts and small production runs
- New lanes being tested before committing to full containers
- Non-urgent cargo where a few extra days of CFS handling is acceptable
What to expect on an LCL move
Pricing
Rated per cubic meter or per 1,000 kg, whichever is greater, plus origin and destination CFS charges.
Transit
Ocean transit plus consolidation and deconsolidation time at each CFS, typically a few days longer than FCL.
Packaging
Cargo must be palletized or crated to withstand handling alongside other shippers' freight.
Dangerous goods
Accepted for many classes, subject to the consolidator's segregation rules and the lane.
LCL shipping FAQ
How is LCL priced?
By cubic meter or weight, whichever yields the higher charge, plus CFS handling at origin and destination. Send dimensions and weight for a quote.
Can hazardous cargo ship LCL?
Often, yes. Many Class 3, 8 and 9 products are accepted with an IMDG declaration, subject to the consolidator's segregation rules.
How long does LCL take compared with FCL?
Usually three to seven days longer because of consolidation at origin and deconsolidation at destination.
When should I switch to FCL?
When your shipment reaches roughly 12 to 15 pallets, or when hazmat segregation, fragility or timing make a dedicated container worth the cost.
Quote an LCL shipment
Send the product, origin, destination and timing. 732-817-0401 or quotes@totalconnection.com.
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