Full Container Load (FCL), as the name implies, is the standard form of shipping freight for those who have a large amount of goods to send.

The FCL definition seems to imply that you have to fill the container totally, but in fact, this is not the case – you are renting its exclusive use but if you cannot use every square metre it may still be the cheapest method.

You have to calculate, versus the option of LCL Shipping (Less than Container Load), whether FCL transport is the more cost-efficient. As a rough rule of thumb, if you have 12 pallets or more, FCL freight is likely to be the better solution.

Other advantages are that you have less risk from other peoples’ cargo, and there is no bumping from the LCL consolidation/deconsolidation process. If you have fragile goods this can be a deciding factor in favour of FCL Shipping.