Also known as: Consolidated cargo, Less than Container Load, Groupage
A maritime shipping mode where cargo from multiple consignees is consolidated into a single container because none has enough volume to fill a full container.
LCL (Less than Container Load) is a maritime shipping mode where cargo from multiple consignees is consolidated into a single container because individually none has enough volume to justify a full container. A consolidator or freight forwarder groups the cargo, stows it in the container, and delivers it to each consignee at the destination port. Cost is calculated per cubic meter or ton (whichever is greater). It is ideal for small to medium imports that do not warrant an FCL.
FCL (Full Container Load)
A maritime shipping mode where an importer uses an entire container exclusively for their cargo, without sharing it with other consignees' merchandise.
LogisticsCargo Consolidation
A logistics process of grouping multiple small shipments from different shippers into a single transport unit to optimize freight costs and space utilization.
LogisticsDeconsolidation
The reverse logistics process of separating individual shipments that traveled grouped in a single transport unit for delivery to their respective consignees.
LogisticsFreight Forwarder
A logistics intermediary that organizes and coordinates international transport of goods on behalf of importers and exporters, managing routes, documentation, and complementary services.