Glossary

Container Load

Definition

A container load refers to the method of filling a shipping container with cargo for transportation. This process is a crucial part of logistics, enabling goods' efficient and secure movement across vast distances. There are two main types of container loads: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL). FCL is used when the entire container is occupied by cargo from a single sender or receiver, while LCL involves consolidating smaller shipments from various shippers into one container, sharing both the space and the transportation costs.

— sennder Team

FAQ

FCL offers several advantages. It minimizes the risk of damage or loss since the container is not shared with other cargo. This exclusive use also results in faster transit times, as there's no need for the consolidation or deconsolidation of multiple shipments. Moreover, for larger shipments that can fill a whole container, FCL is often more economical than LCL.
Opt for LCL when the shipment is too small to fill a full container, making FCL unnecessarily expensive. LCL is ideal when the cargo can be efficiently combined with others headed to the same destination. While it may involve additional handling and potential delays due to consolidation, it's a cost-effective solution for smaller shipments.
LCL costs are usually based on the cargo's volume or weight, whichever is greater. This is known as 'chargeable volume' or 'chargeable weight.' The final cost can also be influenced by factors like the destination, transit time, and any extra services required.
In LCL, goods are first taken to a warehouse for consolidation. Here, they are securely packed onto pallets or in crates. The cargo is then carefully loaded into the container, optimizing space while ensuring the safety of each shipment. This method requires meticulous planning to ensure that all goods are transported securely.

Example or usage in road freight logistics:

Consider a small company that needs to ship a batch of goods too small for a full container. They choose LCL for cost efficiency. The cargo is sent to a consolidation center, mixed with other shipments headed in the same direction. Each item is carefully packed and loaded into the container, ensuring efficient use of space and safety. Upon arrival, the goods are deconsolidated and delivered to their respective destinations. This example illustrates how LCL provides a flexible and economical shipping solution for smaller consignments.

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