A full container load, or FCL, is an ocean-freight shipment booked using an entire container under one shipper’s transport arrangement. The container does not need to be physically full.
How does FCL work?
The shipper loads or arranges loading, seals the container and moves it through the port network to destination, where it is released and unpacked.
FCL versus LCL
FCL uses a dedicated container. Less-than-container-load cargo shares container space and requires consolidation and deconsolidation.
How is FCL priced?
Pricing usually starts with a rate per container and adds origin, terminal, documentation, destination and inland charges. Weight and special equipment can affect eligibility and price.
When may FCL be preferable?
It may suit larger volumes, sensitive cargo, simpler handling or cases where the total FCL cost is lower than volume-based LCL charges.
What should be checked?
Confirm container type, payload, free time, cut-offs, seal, verified gross mass, included charges and empty-return requirements.
