Every week we are asked the same question by shippers who have between eight and eighteen cubic metres to move: do I book a groupage slot or a full 20-foot container? The honest answer is that it depends on more than volume, and the break-even point moves with the market. This guide walks through the factors we use to advise our own clients.
Start with volume, but do not stop there
A 20-foot container holds about 28 cubic metres of usable space and a 40-foot high-cube about 68. LCL is priced per cubic metre (or per 1,000 kg, whichever is greater), so at low volumes it is clearly cheaper. As you approach 12 to 15 cubic metres, the per-cbm LCL cost, plus origin and destination consolidation fees, starts to match an FCL rate on many lanes. Above that, FCL usually wins outright.
Transit time and handling
FCL cargo is loaded once at origin and unloaded once at destination. LCL cargo is handled at a consolidation warehouse on both ends, which adds three to seven days and more touch points. For fragile, high-value or time-sensitive goods, the reduction in handling alone can justify FCL even at lower volumes.
Customs and documentation
With LCL, a hold on any other shipper’s cargo in the same container can delay the whole box at customs. With FCL, your container clears on its own merits. If your goods are subject to inspection-heavy regimes, FCL gives you more control.
Our rule of thumb
- Under 8 cbm: LCL, unless the goods are fragile or urgent.
- 8–15 cbm: compare both; consider transit time, handling and the current rate spread.
- Over 15 cbm: FCL, and consider a 40-foot if you can consolidate orders.
Not sure where you land? Send us the dimensions and we will price both options side by side.
