International Logisticsen
FCL (Full Container Load)
Ocean shipment occupying a full container reserved for a single shipper.
FCL — Full Container Load
FCL refers to a method of maritime shipping where an entire container is reserved for a single shipper, regardless of the volume of goods loaded.
Advantages of FCL
Reduced handling (less risk of damage), shorter transit times than LCL, lower unit cost for large volumes and better security of goods.
When to choose FCL?
The FCL is recommended when the volume of goods is sufficient to fill a container (or close to filling it), typically from 15 m³.
Standard container types
- 20' dry: ~33 m³, payload ~28 tonnes
- 40' dry: ~67 m³, payload ~26 tonnes
- 40' HC (High Cube): ~76 m³, 30 cm additional height
Cost
FCL freight is charged per container, regardless of weight or volume loaded. Surcharges (BAF, THC, EBS) are added to the base rate.