LCL — Less than Container Load
Share container space and pay only for the volume you use. Ideal for shipments from 1–25 CBM.
Transit: 36–48 days · Starting from $102/CBM
Estimated LCL Rates by Volume
| Volume (CBM) | Rate per CBM | Est. Total Freight | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 CBM | $102 | $102 | 36–48 days |
| 2 CBM | $98 | $196 | 36–48 days |
| 5 CBM | $92 | $460 | 36–48 days |
| 10 CBM | $85 | $850 | 36–48 days |
| 15 CBM | $78 | $1,170 | 36–48 days |
| 20 CBM | $72 | $1,440 | 36–48 days |
| 25 CBM | $68 | $1,700 | 36–48 days |
* For volumes over 25 CBM, a full container (FCL) is often more cost-effective. Compare FCL rates →
LCL vs FCL — Which Is Right for You?
| Factor | LCL | FCL 20GP |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | 1–25 CBM shipments | 25+ CBM shipments |
| Cost | Pay per CBM used | Flat container rate |
| Transit time | 36–48 days (consolidation adds time) | 25–35 days (direct sailing) |
| Risk of damage | Higher (shared container) | Lower (your cargo only) |
| Flexibility | High — ship any volume | Must fill whole container |
Not sure? Send us your cargo details and we'll recommend the most cost-effective option.
💬 Get a RecommendationWhat Your LCL Rate Includes
- ✅ Ocean freight based on CBM volume
- ✅ Container Freight Station (CFS) handling at origin
- ✅ Export customs clearance in China
- ✅ CFS handling at destination (Dar es Salaam)
- ✅ Import customs clearance (optional add-on)
- ✅ Door delivery from CFS (optional add-on)
- ✅ Cargo consolidation & deconsolidation
- ✅ Insurance available (1.5% of cargo value)
How LCL Shipping Works
Deliver to CFS
Your cargo is delivered to our Container Freight Station in Guangzhou or Shenzhen, where it's consolidated with other shipments.
Consolidation & Loading
Multiple shipments are consolidated into one container, maximizing space and minimizing cost for everyone.
Deconsolidation & Delivery
At Dar es Salaam, your cargo is separated from the container and ready for customs clearance and delivery.
LCL Tips
LCL is charged by CBM (cubic meter). Measure your cargo (L×W×H in meters) to calculate volume. Odd shapes use the maximum dimensions.
LCL takes longer than FCL because of consolidation and deconsolidation. Plan 36–48 days from pickup to delivery.
Your cargo shares container space with other shipments. Use sturdy cartons or crates and ensure everything is properly packed and labeled.
Ship Small, Save Big
Don't need a full container? LCL lets you ship any volume at competitive rates.
📱 Get LCL Quote