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FCL or LCL? Compare the real cost.
Enter your volume, weight and the rates you've been quoted. See both totals, which is cheaper, and the break-even volume for a full container.
Beyond the price
Compare like with like. LCL destination charges (CFS handling, deconsolidation, delivery order) can be a large share of the bill, and some are charged per shipment rather than per W/M. Ask for all-in quotes on both options.
Time and handling. LCL waits for consolidation and deconsolidation and is handled more often. FCL stays sealed from origin to destination, which suits fragile, high-value or urgent cargo.
Watch the clock. With FCL, free time at destination matters; check the demurrage and detention calculator.
The reasoning is set out in our guide FCL vs LCL: how to choose. To see what fits, use the container loading calculator.
Price both options for my laneFrequently asked questions
When is FCL cheaper than LCL?
It depends on the rates on your lane, but on many trades a 20ft FCL becomes cheaper somewhere around 13 to 15 cubic metres. Enter your own quotes to find the exact break-even point.
What is W/M in LCL pricing?
W/M means weight or measure. LCL is charged on whichever is greater: the volume in cubic metres or the weight in tonnes, usually with a minimum of one W/M.
Is cost the only factor between FCL and LCL?
No. LCL usually adds consolidation and deconsolidation time and more handling, while FCL keeps the cargo sealed from origin to destination. Fragile, high-value or urgent cargo can justify FCL even at a higher cost.
Guides on this topic
FCL vs LCL: How to Choose the Right Ocean Freight Option
Revenue tonnes, CFS charges, cube utilisation and dwell time: a practical framework for deciding between full and shared container loads.
COSTSDemurrage and Detention Explained: Free Time, Charges and Control
The difference between demurrage, detention and port storage, how free time is counted, and the planning habits that keep container charges under control.
OCEAN FREIGHTPacking a Container Safely: The CTU Code, Securing and Container Rain
How to plan, pack and secure a container under the IMO/ILO/UNECE CTU Code, limit condensation damage and meet ISPM 15 rules for wooden packaging.
Know businesses that import or export?
Refer them to Apex Ocean Lines. We quote, book and manage the freight, and you earn commission on the shipments they move with us. Open to referral partners, sales agents and overseas forwarders.
Indicative comparison using the rates you enter. Actual quotes, surcharges and terms from your forwarder and carrier prevail. Legal disclaimer With your permission we keep anonymous, cookieless usage statistics for our tools: Privacy.