Find out what is FCL, Full Container Load, how it is calculated, and how to find the best rates.
When it comes to shipping a large number of items, there is a straightforward answer: FCL. FCL stands for Full Container Load and is one of the most common ways of transporting goods. This way of transporting goods is one of the safest, and the container will be shipped straight from the factory.
A Full Container Load has another advantage: you do not have to share the space with another customer. This is a plus since it decreases the risk of losing your cargo or getting it stolen.
Of course, FCL is still an option even if you don’t have enough items to fill the whole container because FCLs come in different sizes, and you can opt for a smaller one. Below are some key facts to better understand FCL.
A Higher Level of Security
It is better to choose FCL for a few reasons regarding security. As mentioned above, it is safer because other people will not have access to your goods. Since the factory seals the container, it should not be opened until arrival unless customs decide to check it.
A full container provides another sense of security: goods have little room to move around. Since they are packed tight and can’t shift, you can rest assured that every product arrives in good shape.
The Best Price
Prices for containers can differ from day to day and are significantly influenced by the world’s economy and political factors. FCL is a bit more costly than LCL (less than container load) because it uses the whole space. In the long term, it is more efficient to use FCL because it is packed tighter, it is safer, and will be less expensive than making multiple LCL trips.
To find the best container prices, you will need to consider some factors. You need to book in advance since FCL is very popular, and many opt to use this transport method. It would be best if you considered international holidays like Christmas because they will impact the number of containers shipped. The container’s arrival port is also essential in deciding the price, and there might be additional fees. It would be best if you planned everything in detail.
Know the Details
To ensure a smooth FCL process, you should know the exact weight and dimensions of the container. With this information, you can plan the land route and how to move the container. There are many laws regarding the weight of vehicles allowed on public roads. You may need to split the cargo amongst multiple tractor-trailers to adhere to any regulations.
Some ports are smaller, and you will need to pay extra for more services. With the dimensions of your container, it will be easier to come prepared with the right truck, so you will not have to leave the container for a few days in the warehouse. It is also suggested to have information about the dock where the container will arrive because it could include extra costs.
The Average Travel Time
For everyone waiting for a package, time is of the essence. Usually, FCL requires less time to arrive than LCL. On average, it will take 3 to 6 weeks, but many factors can influence the time spent on the way to the destination. These include distance, weather events, political situations, inspections, and proper documentation.
FCL is faster because it does not need to make extra stops for other customers. Also, if customs choose an LCL to inspect, they will inspect every item, regardless of the owner, adding extra time to the overall journey.
The Amount of Cargo
As FCLs are full containers, it is useful to know how much cargo they can accommodate. Containers usually come in sizes of 20 cbm or 40. The 20 cubic meters container can fit around 28 cbm and has a length of 19.5 feet, a width of 7.8 feet, and a height of 7.9 feet.
A 40 cubic meters container can fit around 58 cbm. It has a length of 39.6 feet, a width of 7.8 feet, and a height of 7.9 feet.
