There are several ways by which any business can beat delays and also transit times. One such method is by keeping plenty of inventory in the storage. Besides that, there is another viable method available and that is called LCL shipping.

You can use this kind of LCL (Less Than Container Load) method while importing your goods from China. LCL offers plenty of advantages and because of these advantages, many people are preferring to move towards this LCL shipping method option.

As an example, with LCL shipment, you are able to place your order as soon as you find there is a demand for the item. Similarly, there are many other advantages that are attracting most importers towards LCL shipping method.

LCL, which is a shipping method that allows businesses to transport smaller quantities of goods, as opposed to full container loads (FCL). This option is ideal for companies that do not require a full container of goods, and is often more cost-effective than FCL shipping.

However, you must be fully aware of LCL shipping methods and also its definition, usage, and cost.

Definition

LCL is a shipping method that allows businesses to transport smaller quantities of goods in a shared container with other shipments. Instead of paying for a full container, businesses can save money by sharing the cost of the container with other companies.

LCL shipments are consolidated at the port of origin and then shipped to the port of destination, where they are deconsolidated and delivered to the individual consignees.

Usage

LCL shipping is often used by small and medium-sized businesses that do not require a full container of goods. This method is ideal for businesses that want to save money on shipping costs and avoid the hassle of dealing with a full container.

LCL shipping is also used by businesses that import goods from multiple suppliers, as they can consolidate their shipments into one container, reducing the overall cost of transportation.

Cost

The cost of LCL shipping depends on several factors, including the size and weight of the shipment, the distance between the origin and destination ports, and the type of goods being shipped.

On average, the cost of LCL shipping is usually lower than FCL shipping, as the cost of the container is shared among multiple shipments.

However, businesses should be aware that the cost of LCL shipping may also include additional fees, such as terminal handling charges, consolidation fees, and deconsolidation fees.

When it comes to LCL shipping, it is important to work with a reliable and experienced shipping company to ensure that your shipment is handled properly and arrives at its destination on time and in good condition.

A China sourcing agent can help you find the right shipping company and negotiate the best shipping rates for your LCL shipment. A China sourcing agent can also help you with other aspects of the shipping process, such as customs clearance and documentation, which can be complex and time-consuming.

By hiring a China sourcing agent, you can free up your time and resources to focus on growing your business and take advantage of the many benefits of LCL shipping.

Few cons

It is not out of place to mention that there are few cons of this method too, that you must be aware of.

  • For an LCL shipping method, the ocean freight cost is typically higher as compared to the full container total cost.
  • In certain rare instances, your shipments with this method can also get mixed up or misplaced with some other shipments because of the handling involved during the deconsolidation process.

To summarize, LCL shipment is a cost-effective and flexible shipping method that is ideal for businesses that do not require a full container of goods.

By understanding the definition, usage, and cost of LCL shipping, businesses can make informed decisions and ensure that their shipments are handled properly and arrive at their destination on time and in good condition.

Although, there is a higher possibility of the LCL container being flagged for a customs examination than the FCL container even though LCL consolidators are classifying the items that they are combining in the container because there are more varieties of products in the container.

The ocean freight generally, is known for taking more time during the transit than air freight, hence, shipments that are time-sensitive must be carefully planned.

Hiring a China sourcing agent can also help businesses save time, money, and resources, as well as ensure that their LCL shipments are handled properly and arrive at their destination on time and in good condition.