What is LTL/LCL Freight and how does it work?
Generally, in most cases, shipping an item point to point doesn’t require a full truck or container The cost of moving your cargo this way is expensive and ineffective.
An alternative would be to have your goods consolidated with other shipments to reach
the same final destination.
Defining LTL/LCL Shipping :
The terms LTLand LCL are similar, meaning less than container load (LCL), and less than
truckload (LTL)
Typically, LTL or LCL cargo consist of shipments from individual customers that do not fill
a standard trailer or container, so they are combined with other shipments to
fill and efficiently utilise available space for transport.
Key points : LTL
. You take part ot the cargo space in a transport truck rather than the full truck
. For small businesses you reduce warehousing costs as you do nto need to rent extra space
. LTL freight is cost-effective and flexible when moving small consignments, paying for only the space you need.
Key points: LCL
. LCL is a method of sea freight shippping that is usually cost effective for smaller international importers.
. Shipments are based on the amoung of space in cubic meters.
. The price of LCL shipments is prorated based on the volume needed, this would include a minimum allotment of 1 cubic meter in most cases.
The carrier you choose is a direct extension of your business and wil impact the cost of your supply chain.
ICLS understands your business needs and we build a custom shipping solution to meet your specific needs. Along with our quality service it means your shipments deliver to your customers on time and damage free, protecting your bottom line by preventing refunds, financial penalties, lost sales and or lost customers.
At ICLS we have partnered with IWT Global-Logistics therefore enabling us to build a custom LTL or LCL freight solution to exactly match your business requirements. Whether it's a regular shipment or an expedited shipment that has a tight deadline, we handle each freight shipment as a vital element to our business.
A good guide line for dealing with LTL shipments is :
1.Make your documentation is accurate, you will recev a bill of lading (BOL) after you book your LCL shipment. Take time to check that the pick up address and the delivery address are correct, as this will avoid any delays or avoidable costs.
2. Verify you shipment paperwork and make sure that you have provided the correct weight and dimensions of your freight so you are not caught off balance with any extra costly fees.
3. LTL shipments may be handled on a number of occasions over the delivery route. Make sure that your freight is packaged securely and loaded into crates or pallets and shrink wrapped, this will minimise the risk of damage or for additional handling.
LTL of course is best for shipping small amounts of cargo to fit into a flexible timeline.
Prepare for Customs :
Once your LCL Shipment has arrived at its destination country it will need to clear customs, to ensure that you are custom compliant we at ICLS can handle all the necessary customs documentation for you, leaving your business stress free and your goods delivered on time every time.