What's the main difference between FCL and LCL?
FCL means your cargo has an entire container to itself until destination; LCL means multiple shippers' cargo shares one container, priced by volume/weight, with unpacking/sorting required at destination.
What cargo volume suits FCL?
Cargo filling or near-filling a container (generally 15 CBM+) suits FCL, offering lower unit cost, more stable transit, and lower damage risk.
What cargo volume suits LCL?
Cargo around 1-15 CBM, not enough for a full container, suits LCL — pay for actual volume/weight, but wait for consolidation, adding 5-8 days versus FCL.
How much cargo fit into 20GP, 40GP, and 40HQ containers?
20GP ~33.2 cbm, 40GP ~67.7 cbm, 40HQ ~76.4 cbm (~30cm taller than 40GP). Payload typically ~26-28 tons, depending on tare weight and destination limits.
How long does LCL consolidation take before sailing?
We run weekly scheduled sailings on major routes; cargo arriving at our warehouse typically closes the same or following week, depending on the actual schedule.
How do I pick up LCL cargo at destination?
LCL cargo is unpacked at a local deconsolidation warehouse; consignees present the bill of lading and clearance docs to the warehouse or authorize a local agent, varying by destination.
What do FOB, CIF, CFR, and EXW mean?
EXW: buyer bears all cost/risk from factory. FOB: risk transfers to buyer after loading. CFR: seller pays freight to destination, no insurance. CIF: seller pays freight and insurance to destination.
How far in advance should I book?
At least 3-4 weeks recommended, or 4-6 weeks in peak season, to avoid delays or rate spikes from tight space.
How is FCL freight calculated?
Priced per container type as a flat rate regardless of load inside (within weight limits), affected by route, schedule, and fuel surcharges.
How is LCL freight calculated?
Charged by volume (CBM) or weight, whichever is greater — comparing actual volume against converted weight.
Which ports can I ship from?
Dalian, Tianjin (Xingang), Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, arranged near your factory location.
How do you handle overweight or oversized cargo?
Overweight cargo must be declared at booking, may incur surcharges; oversized cargo can use Flat Rack or Open Top containers — share your exact dimensions and weight in advance.