LCL vs FCL Freight Cost & Break-Even Calculator

Based on the freight quotes you already have, compare freight shipping costs between Less-than-Container Load (LCL) consolidation and dedicated Full-Container Load (FCL) equipment, and identify around what shipment size the cost crossover occurs. This comparison is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered.

Shipment & Freight Quote Details

Enter your actual freight quote parameters to compare LCL consolidation against dedicated FCL container options. This comparison is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered.

1. Shipment Dimensions & Weight

Shipment Volume (CBM)

Gross Weight (kg)

Chargeable Revenue Tons (RT):Volume-dominated

8 RT= max(8 CBM, 2 MT)

Revenue Tons are computed under the maritime Weight or Measure (W/M) rule: 1 RT = max(CBM, metric tonnes). 1 metric tonne = 1,000 kg.

2. LCL Quotation Details

CurrencyDisplay only; no FX conversion

LCL Variable Rate ($ / RT)Ocean freight per W/M

LCL Fixed Charges ($)Docs, CFS handling, customs

LCL is commonly quoted on Weight or Measure (W/M), where the greater of shipment CBM or metric tonnes is used as the chargeable Revenue Ton basis. Actual tariffs can contain minimums and additional charges.

3. Comparable All-In FCL Container Quotations (Optional)Enter one, two, or all three container types

Enter the comparable all-in FCL amount from your quotation. Note that this comparison is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered; ensure both LCL and FCL quotes cover matching origin, ocean, and destination charge scopes.

20' Standard (20GP) ($)Nominal 33.2 CBM • 28.2 MT

40' Standard (40GP) ($)Nominal 67.7 CBM • 26.7 MT

40' High Cube (40HC) ($)Nominal 76.3 CBM • 26.5 MT

Freight Cost ComparisonEstimated freight cost comparison based on the quotation values you entered

Currency: USD ($)

LOWEST ENTERED COSTLowest entered cost: LCL

This comparison considers entered freight costs only and is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered. Transit time, cargo handling, availability, demurrage/detention, free time, insurance and operational requirements are not evaluated.

Option	Estimated Cost	Difference vs Cheapest	Evaluation
LCL Consolidation (Shared Container)	$1,160	Baseline (Lowest)	Lowest Entered Cost
20ft Standard Dry Container (20' GP)	$1,500	+$340 (+29.3%)	$340 higher

Cost Savings Breakdown:

LCL saves $340 (29.3%) compared to 20' Standard.

Estimated LCL / FCL Cost Crossover Analysis

Calculates the estimated shipment volume (in Revenue Tons) where LCL ocean freight cost equals your entered FCL quotation. This comparison is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered.

20' StandardQuote: $1,500

Cost Crossover Point:~10.83 Revenue Tons

Based on the rates entered, LCL and this 20' Standard quote become equal at approximately 10.83 Revenue Tons.

Container capacity: 33.2 CBM • Max payload: 28,250 kg

40ft Standard Dry Container (40' GP)

No FCL quote entered for this container model.

40ft High Cube Dry Container (40' HC)

No FCL quote entered for this container model.

LCL vs FCL Freight Decision Methodology

1. Weight or Measure (W/M) Rule

Ocean LCL cargo is billed per Revenue Ton (RT), where 1 RT is the higher of cubic meters (CBM) or metric tonnes (1,000 kg). Heavy dense goods hit weight limits quickly, whereas lightweight goods are billed by space.

2. Port CFS vs FCL Terminal Charges

LCL consolidation incurs Container Freight Station (CFS) handling, de-vanning, and documentation fees at both origin and destination. FCL incurs Terminal Handling Charges (THC) and demurrage/detention. This comparison is only as comparable as the scope of the quotations entered.

3. Operational Trade-Offs Beyond Cost

LCL typically takes 7–14 days longer due to consolidation and customs clearance. FCL provides a sealed container, reduced handling damage risk, faster discharge, and more predictable sailing schedules.

Need shipment volume? Calculate CBM →Check how your cartons fit in containers →

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Read guide: LCL vs FCL Cost Drivers & Break-Even Guide →Review calculation methodology →

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