FCL or LCL? A simple way to decide

The rule of thumb: if you are shipping more than about 13–15 cubic metres, a full 20-foot container is usually cheaper than LCL.

When LCL wins

Small, frequent shipments, trial orders and samples.

When FCL wins

Larger volumes, fragile goods and anything where speed matters, since there is no consolidation wait.

Ask for both quotes. The break-even point moves with the market.