LCL (Less than Container Load)
A sea freight option where small shipments from several shippers share one container, with charges based on volume or weight.
TL;DR: LCL lets you ship a partial container by sharing space with other shippers. You pay only for the space or weight your cargo uses, but handling steps and local fees add time and cost.
In an LCL shipment, the seller delivers the goods to a CFS (Container Freight Station) near the port. There the forwarder consolidates cargo from many shippers into one container. At the destination, the container is unpacked at another CFS, a step called deconsolidation, and each buyer collects their own goods.
LCL is usually priced on a W/M basis, meaning weight or measurement, whichever is greater. One CBM is compared with one metric ton, and the higher figure is charged. Dense goods like glass mosaic are often charged by weight rather than volume. Most forwarders also apply a minimum charge, often one CBM, and destination fees for CFS handling and documents can be significant for small shipments.
LCL suits samples, small orders and replacement tiles. For larger orders, compare the total landed cost with FCL, since an FCL container can become cheaper once volume grows. Because LCL cargo is handled several times, pack mosaic sheets in strong cartons on pallets or crates, and label every piece clearly with marks that match the packing list.
Compare with FCL (Full Container Load) and see CFS and CBM.