When planning an international move or shipping personal effects overseas, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right shipping method. The three main options are Less than Container Load (LCL), Full Container Load (FCL), and Groupage. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors like volume, budget, and flexibility.
 

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, pros, and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

1. Less than Container Load (LCL) Shipping

LCL is a shipping method where your goods are consolidated with shipments from other customers in a shared container. This option is ideal for small or medium-sized shipments that do not require an entire container.
 

Advantages of LCL Shipping:

✅ Cost-Effective for Small Shipments – You only pay for the space you use, making it a good option for shipments under 500-600 cubic feet.

✅ Frequent Departures – LCL shipments typically have more frequent sailing schedules than full containers, reducing wait times for shipping.

✅ No Need to Fill a Full Container – If your shipment is too small for a 20ft or 40ft container, LCL is a better alternative than paying for empty space.

✅ Can Be Sent from Almost Any Port – LCL services operate from most major ports, providing flexibility in departure locations.
 

Disadvantages of LCL Shipping:

❌ Longer Transit Times – Since LCL shipments are consolidated with other cargo, they require additional handling at depots and ports, which can cause delays.

❌ Higher Risk of Damage or Loss – Your items are handled more frequently during loading, unloading, and consolidation, increasing the risk of damage.

❌ Higher Per-Cubic-Foot Cost – While LCL is cheaper for small shipments, the cost per cubic foot is typically higher than FCL.

❌ Potential for Additional Charges – Some destination ports charge deconsolidation fees, which can increase total costs unexpectedly.
 

Best for:

✔️ Small personal moves (under 500 CFT)
✔️ Shipping boxed or crated items
✔️ Customers who don’t mind slightly longer transit times
 

2. Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping

FCL is when you rent an entire 20ft or 40ft container for your shipment. Even if you don’t fill the container, you have exclusive use of it.
 

Advantages of FCL Shipping:

✅ Fastest Transit Time – Since your shipment moves as a single unit, it bypasses consolidation and deconsolidation delays, making it the fastest option.

✅ Lower Per-Unit Cost – If you have 600+ cubic feet, FCL can be more cost-effective than LCL since the price per cubic foot is lower.

✅ Less Handling, Lower Risk – FCL containers are loaded at the origin and remain sealed until arrival, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

✅ Ideal for Large Shipments – If you’re moving household goods or large furniture, an FCL container offers the space needed.
 

Disadvantages of FCL Shipping:

❌ Higher Upfront Cost – Renting a full container is more expensive than LCL, even if you don’t use all the space.

❌ Not Ideal for Small Shipments – If you have only a few items, an FCL container will have a lot of wasted space, making it an inefficient option.

❌ Limited Flexibility on Port Departures – Some ports may have fewer sailings for full containers compared to LCL services.

Best for:

✔️ Shipments over 600 cubic feet
✔️ Moving a full household (furniture, appliances, etc.)
✔️ Those looking for faster transit and secure handling

3. Groupage Shipping (Shared Container Service)

Groupage shipping is a hybrid of LCL and FCL. Your shipment is consolidated into a container with other customers’ goods, but unlike LCL, the container is exclusively used for household goods, reducing the risk of damage from commercial freight.
 

Advantages of Groupage Shipping:

✅ Lower Cost than FCL – You only pay for the space you use while sharing a container with other moving customers.

✅ Safer than LCL – Since all shipments in the container are household goods, there’s less risk of contamination or damage from incompatible cargo.

✅ Better for Medium-Sized Moves – If your shipment is between 200-600 cubic feet, groupage offers a balance between cost and security.

✅ Lower Risk of Hidden Charges – Unlike LCL, groupage typically does not have deconsolidation fees at the destination.
 

Disadvantages of Groupage Shipping:

❌ Longer Wait Times – Since the container must be fully loaded before departure, it may take longer to ship compared to LCL or FCL.

❌ Limited Availability – Groupage is not available for every destination, and consolidation may be restricted to major routes.

❌ Higher Per-Cubic-Foot Cost than FCL – While cheaper than LCL, groupage can still be more expensive per cubic foot than FCL if you have a large shipment.

Best for:

✔️ Shipments between 200-600 cubic feet
✔️ People who want a safer alternative to LCL
✔️ Customers who can wait for consolidation
 

Which Shipping Option Should You Choose?

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Shipping Method

• If your shipment is small (under 500 CFT) and you need flexibility, LCL is usually the best option.
• If you have a full household move or need a faster, more secure shipping method, go with FCL.
• If your shipment falls in the middle range (200-600 CFT) and you can wait for consolidation, groupage offers a good balance of cost and security.
   

Need Help Deciding?

At East Coast Shipping, we specialize in international moving and freight services, offering LCL, FCL, and groupage shipping to Europe, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Contact us for a custom shipping quote tailored to your needs!