LCL vs FCL: Choosing the Right Sea Cargo Option for International Moves
Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) are two main sea freight options for overseas relocation. They fit different volumes of household goods and are usual choices of professional international movers. FCL means you get a whole container for your stuff and this makes the moving process easier. LCL on the other hand, is all about sharing the container’s space with other people’s goods so it comes down to the cost of your particular load.
Understanding FCL for International Moving
FCL stands for full container load. When you choose FCL, you get a full 20ft or 40ft container entirely for your stuff that can hold up to 28-30 m³ (20ft Container) and 60-65 m³ (40ft Container) of your household goods. If you wish, you can pack and seal it yourself or with the help of movers at origin, this way there will be less handling and less damage during the ocean transit to Saudi ports. This is a perfect service for families moving abroad with lots of belongings since they can take advantage of direct shipping routes along with faster customs clearance.
Understanding LCL for smaller International Moving
Relocation companies typically charge shipping less than container load (LCL) shipments based on the volume of goods in cubic meters (CBM) or weight. Your items are combined and shipped with other people’s goods in one shared container. Forwarders usually pick up the cargo from the aggregate destination at origin ports and unpack it at the destination, which is great for singles or small households under 10 CBM. It is a cheap option to start a move but the process of consolidation requires time. For LCL shipments, official destination charges (DTHC, NVOCC, DO) apply, which most relocation companies cannot predict precisely in advance.
Unique Packing Needs by Item Type
Every item requires specially designed packing materials and methods that are suitable for the item’s nature, size, and fragility. In case you hire professional international movers Riyadh that are familiar with the detailed characteristics of every single item, then you can trust that your precious items will be given top, notch care and the likelihood of damages will be minimal during the transportation of the goods.
Key Comparison for International Shipping
Aspect | LCL (Shared Container) | FCL (Dedicated Container) |
Ideal Volume | < 10 CBM (without furniture) | 10 + CBM (e.g., full home) |
Cost Structure | Per CBM + handling fees | Flat container rate |
Transit Duration | 3-4 weeks longer due to sorting | Faster direct sailings |
Damage Protection | Higher risk from multiple touches | Sealed for security |
Customs Process | More documentation delays | Simplified single shipment |
FCL significantly reduces contamination risks for delicate items like antiques during extended ocean voyages.
Strengths and Weaknesses for International Shipping
FCL Strengths
- Secure transport ensuring valuables are safe worldwide.
- Predictable timelines for settling at destination quickly
- Even partial loads benefit as volume increases resulting in better value.
FCL Limitations
- More expenses at the beginning if the cargo is light.
- Not very suitable for trials or minimalist type moves.
LCL Strengths
- Affordable entry for small international moves
- Flexible for multi-stop journeys.
LCL Limitations
- Vulnerable to delays at busy ports.
- Elevated pilferage chance from unpacking
When to Select Each for Your Move
If you have less than 8-10 m³, then consider LCL and save up to next 60% on partial household goods. For a larger volume, expensive furniture, or if you are on a tight schedule and want to avoid the risks of sharing your cargo, then you should definitely consider FCL. After all, take the time and compare the rates since in many cases the price of FCL per m³ at scale is even lower than that of LCL.
A Plus International Movers: Your Riyadh Relocation Partner
A Plus International Movers in Saudi Arabia is your expert for FCL and LCL sea cargo to facilitate international household moves to the ports of Jeddah or Dammam without any problems. We take care of packing, customs, and delivery at very reasonable costs especially designed for expats. Get in touch with us for a free estimate and smooth worldwide move.
