LCL vs FCL

📦 How LCL and FCL Are Priced

When planning an international move, one of the most important decisions is whether to ship your household goods as LCL (Less than Container Load) or FCL (Full Container Load). The way these options are priced is very different—and understanding that difference can help you make the most cost-effective choice.

🧮 LCL: Priced Per Cubic Meter (CBM)

• LCL shipments are charged based on volume—specifically per CBM or per metric ton, whichever is greater.

• This means the more space your goods take up, the higher the cost.

• Even small shipments often have a minimum charge, typically equivalent to 1 CBM.

• LCL also includes additional handling fees for consolidation, deconsolidation, and terminal processing.

Example:

If your shipment is 6 CBM, and the rate is $60 per CBM, your base ocean freight would be $360—plus origin/destination fees.

🚢 FCL: Flat Rate Per Container

• FCL is priced as a flat rate for the entire container, regardless of how full it is.

• You’re paying for exclusive use of a 20ft or 40ft container.

• This makes FCL more cost-efficient per CBM when your volume is high (typically 12+ CBM for 20ft, 25+ CBM for 40ft).

• FCL also avoids many of the extra handling fees associated with LCL.

Example:

A 20ft container might cost $2,200 total. Whether you fill it with 10 CBM or 28 CBM, the rate stays the same.