FCLs (full container loads) refer to when one party owns all goods in one shipping container. Rather than paying for a portion of a container, you are paying for the whole container.

There are both benefits and drawbacks to FCL. Read on to find out more.

Pros of FCL

• Cost-Effective: When you ship by FCL, you are paying a flat rate for the entire container rather than paying by the cubic metre. The cost per cubic metre for FCLs is lower than the cost per cubic metre for LCLs (less than container loads), making it the more cost-effective solution for businesses shipping large loads.

• Reduced Damage: As the container is not shared in FCLs, the risk of damages occurring are minimised.

• Faster Transit Times: As FCL shipments are composed of goods from only one supplier, they do not take as long to be loaded and unloaded.

• Higher Costs: If you use FCL, you must pay for the entire container. Although this is cost-effective if you are able to fill it up, it can be unnecessarily expensive if you are shipping a small order.

• Unsuitable for Smaller Shipments: Businesses with smaller cargo volumes are not served by FCL.

Determining whether FCL is the best logistical solution for your business can be tough as there are a number of factors to consider. Fortunately, ISS is here to help.

Our experienced shipping professionals will be able to help you determine the fastest, easiest and most cost-effective way to ship your goods.

Get in touch with ISS now for more information.