What is FCL?
FCL shipping stands for a full container load shipping, also written as Full Container Load or FCL. It refers to goods loaded into a shipping container under the carrier company’s employees (“stuffing”).
The shipping container used by ocean carriers will have an identification number (most likely a bill of lading number) printed on each side. Often both ends or all four corners so that no matter how they must place it inside the vessel, it will always have access to open sea during shipment. That way, additional goods can be loaded at the port of departure, being stowed either on top of the container itself or alongside it.
FCL service is mainly used to transport manufactured goods from place A to B through water, the cheapest option compared to air transport. It is also often combined with LCL (less than container load) services being packed into containers by various suppliers and then consolidated for ocean carriage to a regional hub before redistribution into trucks that will take them finally to their final destination.
The cost of FCL depends mainly on two variables: size/volume of the cargo and distance travelled. As one would expect, smaller shipments are generally charged less per kilo or cubic meter, while large ones are more expensive.
How do I prepare my goods for containerization?
To begin with, you need to ensure that the items within your shipment are adequately packed into boxes or containers. Since it is no longer an option for storage and transport on open truck beds as it used to be before the age of FCL – not to mention that such exposure increases the risk of damage due to exposure to outside elements.
Additionally, it makes sense for both sides involved: shipper and receiver and carrier companies who offer discounted services for those goods packed in corrugated boxes (which we will talk about later) and, if possible, palletized. Whatever you do: make sure you pack your goods safely.
The last thing anyone wants is contents damaged by mishandling during loading/unloading operations.
Is FCL right for me/my shipment?
If your shipment meets the following criteria – it is indeed a good idea to consider using the FCL service:
- It can be shipped in one full container load. Items are packed to avoid shifting during sea transport.
- There are no breakable or temperature-sensitive goods involved.
- No hazardous materials will be sent under FCL.
How do I compare FCL vs LCL rates?
Several factors affect shipping price for both types of shipments: size/volume and distance travelled. Some carriers have additional discounts for truckload (LTL) and less than truckload (LCL) services – if any of these applies to you: make sure to take advantage of them.
Because while we might think that we may get a better deal by consolidating several small shipments into a single container, it is essential to realize that the more carts you have – the greater likelihood of damage.
How will my goods be protected during shipping?
Absolutely nothing substitutes proper packing, but if you cannot do it yourself – make sure to hire professionals. Carriers handle cargo very carefully and will expect goods to be packaged accordingly. Broken or crumbled items are the carriers responsibility, while undamaged ones remain yours.
20’FCL vs 40’FCL: which is better for me?
There’s no correct answer to this question since it all comes down to the size/volume of your product and the distance travelled. Usually, FCL shipments go by sea, while LCL (less than container load) service is more likely what you’d choose when you deal with smaller orders that won’t fill up a full-sized container.
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