LCL
LCL (Less than Container Load) is a very important concept in logistics. According to the generally accepted definition it is a transport of less-than-container load, during which only a part of the container (load space) is used. Such a solution allows to combine goods owned by several companies in one container. During LCL distribution, many customers pay for the freight of one container, which significantly lowers the price of transport. It is one of the advantages of this kind of transport.
What is worth knowing about LCL?
In the process of combining shipments, the so-called consolidation, LCL transport is carried out using a single container. In such a situation, for example, importing from China becomes a much simpler undertaking for the customer, because one only needs to limit their actions to placing an order, and the subsequent formalities will be taken care of by the specialists of forwarding and transport companies. The customer can enquire about the freight price and after accepting it he doesn't have to worry about the further fate of the shipment, because the transport itself, consolidation of the shipments and finalization of the transaction will be on the side of the company specializing in LCL.
LCL - key benefits
LCL transport has many advantages, which are worth getting to know. First of all, among its advantages one should mention the ease and speed of access to the goods by the ordering party, as well as the possibility of delivery to any place from the receiving port. In addition, the overall cost of the order is much lower, because thanks to the mentioned consolidation it is shared between all shipments in one container. This not only affects the cost reduction, but also the speed of delivery.
What is the difference between LCL and FCL?
Finally, it is also worth mentioning the differences between LCL and FCL distribution. In the case of FCL, or Full Container Load, we are dealing with full container freight, which is most often used by entrepreneurs specializing in shipping for wholesale customers. This type of freight facilitates the transport of a large number of shipments that are carried in a single container. Moreover, LCL, or so-called less-than-truckload transport, is ideal for small-sized, low-weight shipments. In addition, it also works well when we buy small consignments of goods at different times and in different places. The waiting period for LCL is a bit longer than for FCL by about two weeks, so it is worth keeping this in mind to be able to keep your operations running smoothly.
FCL transport, on the other hand, is mainly used when it comes to transporting shipments and goods of non-standard shape and dimension and heavy weight that can fill the entire space or carrying capacity of the container. Therefore, before making a final decision on the choice of a particular solution, it is worth taking into account the characteristics of the transported goods to choose the most advantageous option for yourself. In addition, the type of containers is also important, among which we can list models for general purpose, with increased height, with an open roof and side, refrigerated, as well as cabinets for transporting clothes or variants in the form of a platform.