LCL (Less Container Load) Shipping

LCL shipping is an affordable way to ship smaller shipments across the globe. East Coast Shipping offers solutions for customers who don’t have enough to fill a whole container. When shipping by LCL, you are paying for the space you take up inside the container. Goods are generally palletized or put into lift vans (shipping crates) for exporting, which adds about 15-25% to your volume, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

Our LCL consolidation services include providing the most competitive door pick-up pricing, as well as the flexibility of dropping LCL cargo locally at any one of our conveniently located warehouses across the USA.

Services:

• Packing & Loading: East Coast Shipping can handle all of your packing & loading needs using our network of trusted movers across the USA. When opting for Full Service, we will handle the packing, inventory for customs, and placing goods into lift vans or pallets for export.
• Self Packing: If you are only shipping boxes, suitcases, and/or export-ready bags, we can offer cost-saving solutions on your pick-up. All goods must be packed and sealed, and we can arrange a curbside pickup with our trusted line of freight carriers to save money on transportation to our shipping terminals. We also offer indoor pickups upon request in all major cities.
  • Note: If you live above the 2nd floor or have bad street access, please discuss with your shipping consultant to ensure we can accommodate this service.
• Delivering to Terminal: If you are located close enough to deliver to one of our many LCL export terminals, you can save money on your pick-up fees. We provide you with a booking number, address, and hours of operations so you can take your goods to the terminal. You cannot bring loose items to the shipping terminal. Goods must be packed in boxes, palletized, or crated, or they can refuse freight.

East Coast Shipping Inc. LCL USA Terminals:

Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, New Jersey/ NY, Norfolk, Oakland/SF, Savannah, Seattle, St. Louis.

• Door Delivery: When we quote to door, we will handle your customs clearance at your destination and delivery to door. We also offer full unloading service with setting up basic furniture and removal of debris. Port charges can be included to certain destinations as well but are generally invoiced in destination currency as per receipt from the port.
• Shipping to Port: We offer port shipping services to most major ports around the world. With this option, customers can save money if they have the means to pick up the goods from the port. Keep in mind this does not include customs clearance, and you will be responsible for all import documentation upon the arrival of your freight.

Direct Less Container Load (Direct LCL) vs. Groupage

Direct Less Container Load (Direct LCL)

Description:
Direct LCL service involves shipping your cargo directly from the origin port to the destination port without consolidating it with other shipments. This results in a quicker transit time as your shipment is not delayed by additional stops for loading or unloading other cargo.

Pros:

• Faster Transit Time: Direct LCL shipments reach their destination more quickly as they do not involve multiple stops for consolidation or deconsolidation.
• Less Handling: Reduced handling minimizes the risk of damage or loss of goods.
• More Predictable Schedule: With fewer variables in the shipping process, the delivery schedule is more reliable.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: Direct LCL services are generally more expensive due to the dedicated space and faster transit time.

Groupage

Description:
Groupage involves consolidating your cargo with other shipments heading to the same destination. This service is typically slower but more cost-effective compared to Direct LCL. Groupage is available for shipments to Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Sharing container space with other shipments significantly reduces shipping costs.
• Eco-Friendly: Consolidating shipments reduces the number of containers used, lowering the overall carbon footprint.

Cons:

• Longer Transit Time: Groupage services are slower as the shipment may need to be consolidated and deconsolidated at multiple points.
• Potential Shuttle Fee: There may be an additional shuttle fee due to the delivery agent needing to use a larger semi-truck to deliver multiple shipments if you live a smaller street or dont have access to a large semi truck. Check your street beforehand to make sure this is not needed. 
• Increased Handling: More handling steps can slightly increase the risk of damage or delays.

Which Service is Best for You?

• Direct LCL: Choose this service if your priority is speed and reliability. It is ideal for time-sensitive shipments where the higher cost is justified by the faster transit time and reduced handling.
• Groupage: Opt for groupage if cost savings are a primary concern and your shipment schedule is more flexible. This service is suitable for less urgent shipments and provides a more economical solution, especially for destinations in Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Destination Countries for LCL Shipping from the USA:

We offer LCL shipping services to a wide range of destinations worldwide, ensuring your goods are delivered safely and efficiently.