Shipping & Logistics
What is Less than Container Load (LCL)?
A shipment too small for a full container, consolidated with others.
LCL (Less than Container Load) is used when a shipment is too small to justify a full container. The forwarder consolidates several shippers' cargo into one container at a CFS, then deconsolidates at destination. LCL avoids paying for unused space but adds handling, longer transit and slightly higher risk from co-loading.
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