LCL vs FCL: when should you book a full container?
LCL (less than container load) shares a container with other shippers and is charged per CBM; FCL (full container load) gives you the whole container for a flat rate. As a rule of thumb, FCL often becomes cheaper somewhere between about 13 and 18 CBM, depending on the route and current rates. Compare an LCL quote for your volume with a 20ft FCL quote to find your own break-even.
How to find the break-even
Break-even CBM = total 20ft FCL cost ÷ LCL cost per CBM. Include the extra charges in both: LCL has consolidation (CFS) fees at both ends; FCL has container handling and trucking. If a 20ft costs the same as 15 CBM of LCL, then above 15 CBM a full container is cheaper, and you still have room up to about 25–28 CBM.
LCL vs FCL compared
| LCL | FCL | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Per CBM or ton (W/M), usually with a 1 CBM minimum | Flat rate per container |
| Best for | Small shipments, roughly 1–15 CBM | Larger shipments, heavy cargo, fragile goods |
| Transit time | Longer: consolidation and deconsolidation at warehouses | Shorter: goes straight from shipper to consignee |
| Handling | More handling, higher risk of damage | Loaded and sealed once |
| Flexibility | Ship small quantities often | Need enough cargo to justify the box |
Which container size?
- Up to about 28 CBM: a 20ft container.
- About 28–58 CBM: a 40ft container.
- About 58–68 CBM: a 40ft high cube.
Check the exact fit of your cartons with the load calculator before booking.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between LCL and FCL?
LCL shares a container and is charged by volume or weight; FCL books the whole container at a flat rate.
How many CBM make a full container worthwhile?
Often around 13–18 CBM for a 20ft, but it depends on current LCL and FCL rates on your route.
Is FCL faster than LCL?
Usually yes, because FCL cargo skips the consolidation warehouse at origin and destination.