Quick answer
Use LCL (less than container load) for shipments under roughly 13–15 CBM, where you pay per cubic metre for space in a shared container. Above that, an FCL (full container load) — a 20ft container holds about 25–28 CBM of cartons in practice — is usually cheaper per unit, faster and safer because your goods are not handled with other cargo.
Container sizes
| Container | Internal volume | Practical load |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft standard | ~33 CBM | ~25–28 CBM |
| 40ft standard | ~67 CBM | ~55–58 CBM |
| 40ft high cube | ~76 CBM | ~65–68 CBM |
FCL vs LCL at a glance
| LCL | FCL | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Per CBM / tonne | Flat per container |
| Best volume | 1–15 CBM | 15+ CBM |
| Transit | Slower (consolidation and deconsolidation) | Faster |
| Handling risk | Higher | Lower — sealed at origin |
| Destination charges | CFS charges per CBM can add up | Fixed container charges |
Why consolidation changes the maths
If you buy from several suppliers, shipping each order separately as LCL means paying minimum charges, documentation and destination fees several times. Consolidating them in one warehouse turns several small LCL shipments into one — often enough to fill an FCL. See consolidation & warehousing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum for LCL shipping?
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Most consolidators charge a minimum of 1 CBM per shipment, so very small shipments are often cheaper by air or express courier.
This guide is general information, not legal or customs advice. Duty rates and import rules change — confirm current requirements for your HS code with DGFT, CBIC or a licensed customs broker.
