Full container or shared container? Compare cost, speed, risk and handling to pick the right ocean mode for your China shipment.
The core difference
FCL (Full Container Load) books the entire container for one shipper. LCL (Less than Container Load) shares container space with other shippers and is charged by volume or weight.
Comparison at a glance
- FCL: best at ~15–28 CBM+, lower per-unit cost, less handling.
- LCL: best below ~15 CBM, pay only for used space.
- FCL: faster port turnaround, sealed box.
- LCL: extra consolidation/deconsolidation time.
How to decide
- Estimate your total CBM and weight.
- If you approach a container's usable volume, price FCL.
- If you are small-volume or mixing suppliers, price LCL.
- Compare both in one quote before booking.