FCL vs LCL: Choosing the Right Sea Freight Option
The difference between a full container and shared (consolidated) cargo, and when each one suits your goods.
At a glance
- Full container load (FCL): A container just for you (20 or 40 ft). Suits large volumes, and is only opened at inspection or delivery.
- Less than container load (LCL): Your cargo shares a container with other shipments and you pay by volume or weight. Suits smaller loads.
How NOMI helps
- Recommending the better-value option for your volume
- Consolidating cargo from several suppliers into one container
- Clearance and delivery in both cases
Core documents
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of origin
- Bill of lading or air waybill
Transit times and prices depend on the carrier, the season and the goods; we send current figures in your quote.
How it works
From quote to delivery
Request a quote
Tell us the origin, destination and goods. We send an itemised quote.
Booking and pickup
We book the shipment, collect from the supplier and prepare the documents.
Transit and customs
We follow the journey and clear your goods through customs on arrival.
Delivery
We deliver to your warehouse or the address you choose.
Frequently asked questions
When does a full container become better value?
It depends on volume, weight and the line. Send us the volume and weight and we compare both in the quote.
Is LCL slower?
It can take extra time for consolidation at origin and unpacking at destination.
Related services
More shipping routes and guides
Shipping from China to the GCCFreight between GCC countriesShipping from China to Saudi ArabiaShipping from China to Dubai and the UAEShipping from China to BahrainShipping from the UAE to Saudi ArabiaShipping from Saudi Arabia to the UAEExporting from Saudi ArabiaCustoms Clearance in DubaiJebel Ali Customs ClearanceInternational Shipping Documents Guide
Request a quote
We reply with an itemised quote within one business day.