FCL and LCL are common terms when importing or exporting products and due to the logistical complexity of the activity it is essential to know more about them. The WTO (World Trade Organization) has supported standardization in order to facilitate the transportation of goods.
When transporting products, there are different problems such as: insecurity that causes costly damage, delays derived from the transshipment of goods and the various documentation for each product at customs.
Here we present the differences between an FCL (Full Container Load) and an LCL (Less than a Full Container Load). This will help you choose the best option according to your shipping volume and solve your logistical needs. And if you have a more complicated problem, it is essential to seek advice from an expert who can guide you to a successful conclusion.
Full Container Load (FCL)
Advantages
- Security. When the merchandise travels alone, the stability of the cargo is guaranteed.
- Delivery speed. Shipments are direct, they go from origin A to destination B, therefore the merchandise minimizes times.
- Profitability. When transporting goods greater than or equal to 15m3, a better cost-benefit is obtained compared to the LCL.
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Possible scenarios:
When importing or exporting delicate, perishable, dangerous products or products that require special treatment due to their type of packaging or transportation times, transportation via FCL is the most convenient to ensure correct transportation.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
Advantages
- Investment. A reduced amount is used compared to the FCL, since the rates are in proportion to the volume of the shipment.
- Volume. When sending small shipments of merchandise, it is the ideal logistics transportation option
- Multiple suppliers: If the import considers products from different suppliers, it is possible to consolidate everything together with the products of other importers.
Possible scenarios:
If it is a shipment in which there are different suppliers of different types of products, there is a wide time spectrum, costs must be optimized and the goods to be moved are not delicate (due to the different maneuvers to which they are exposed), the best option is to plan an LCL transfer.
In general, each scenario is completely different, there are always variables that determine or modify the practices to follow; For this reason, it is necessary to make an evaluation of the context of your company, consider times, costs, routes and more, if you have any questions about how to optimize your imports or exports. APR Cargo Group can gladly support you in your logistical requirements.