What is FCL?
Full Container Load, or FCL, is a shipping option where a single container is used exclusively for one shipment. This means the entire container is occupied by goods from one consignee or shipper. FCL is ideal for larger shipments that can fill an entire container. Unlike Less than Container Load (LCL) where goods from multiple shippers are consolidated, FCL offers a more direct and often faster shipping solution.
How are FCL shipments charged?
FCL shipments are typically charged on a per-container basis. This means the cost is calculated based on the size of the container used, rather than the volume or weight of the goods inside. This charging method can be more cost-effective for large shipments, as the price is not affected by the weight of the cargo, as long as it doesn’t exceed the container’s weight limit.
What are the most common container sizes?
The most common container sizes used in FCL shipping are:
- Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU): A standard unit of measurement in the shipping industry, representing the dimensions of a 20-foot long container.
- Forty-foot Equivalent Unit (FEU): Another standard unit, representing a container twice the length of a TEU.
These containers are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of goods, making them popular choices for FCL shipments.