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Full Container Load

When you are considering using a full container load (FCL) for loading your next important shipment, you should first consider some of the unique features of FCL shipping.

One full container load may be more beneficial to your company compared to a less than full load. These freight services provide greater security for your goods and reduce the risk of damage or loss. FCL freight shipments also generally have a shorter transit time compared to less than container load shipments. This is because there are fewer port stops and handling points. When you are working with container load transport, consider your options. Doing your research can help you figure out if FCL container freight shipping is right for you.

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What is a full container load?

A full container load (FCL) refers to a freight forwarder shipment that completely fills a shipping container, typically a 20-foot or 40-foot container. This is intended for a single consignee. In other words, a full container load is a shipment in which the entire container is dedicated to a single importer or exporter and their cargo.

The advantage of a full container load is that it provides greater control and security over the shipment. Since the container is packed with goods from a single consignee, there is no need to share the container with other shippers, which means the cargo is less likely to be damaged or lost. This also makes it easier to track the shipment and ensure that it arrives at its intended destination.

Another benefit of a full container load is that it can be more cost-effective than other shipping options. Because the entire container is dedicated to a single shipment, it eliminates the need to pay for space that is not being used. Additionally, since a full container load does not require as much handling as other types of shipments, it can help to reduce the risk of damage or loss, which can result in lower insurance costs.

What is the size of a full container load?

The size of a full container load varies depending on the type of container being used. The most common sizes are 20-foot and 40-foot containers. A 20-foot container can typically hold up to 10 standard pallets of goods, while a 40-foot container can hold up to 22 standard pallets. The exact dimensions of each container may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.

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What Our Clients Say

Above and beyond

They are constantly going above and beyond to make sure I am happy and getting personal attention. I am confident that we will be importing our bicycles with Dedola for a long time to come.

Michael Fishman Co-Founder & President, Pure Fix Cycles

Competitive pricing

Dedola has been our trusted import broker since 2013. Their technology and shipment visibility rivals any large brokerage company, but their real strength is the personal attention from their great administrative team. I doubt there is a better combination of competitive pricing and outstanding service available in the industry.

Peter P & P Imports, Irvine, CA, USA

Trustworthy

We have been working with Dedola Global Logistics for almost a decade now and their customer service and pricing has always been exceptional. The team at Dedola are all first class trustworthy individuals. Never once have they steered us in the wrong direction. Their knowledge in each area of the industry has helped our company in many ways. From LCL shipments, to importing 20ft/40ft containers, and processing triangle shipments, Dedola made every shipment as seamless as possible. This allows us to focus our time and energy where it is needed most which is our client base. We look forward to building even a stronger relationship over the next few decades!

Owner - Vin C. SCS Performance, LLC, Livermore, California

Handles the entire process

As a small business owner there are countless obstacles to overcome every day. Dedola works for me and handles the entire process so I can stay focused on growing my business.

Gabriel Matrix Mirrors

Always takes care of us

Dedola has always provided above and beyond customer service for our company in many ways. When we needed a new 3PL warehouse they helped us with negotiating rates with a warehouse they recommended and made sure we were always taken care of. Dedola is a forwarder we as a company would highly recommend.

Amanda SJ Creations

Excellent customer service

The Dedola team has been a great partner right from the beginning. They offered flexible terms, great rates and the customer service is excellent. They have been open to many of my suggestions on how to improve the overall customer experience.

Bob Precision, CPG, LLC., California

Peace of Mind

Dedola has been incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. Their sales team spent an hour on the phone with me carefully answering my many questions and my Logistic Coordinator, Crystal, patiently walked me through the process of my first order every step of the way. I started shipping during the pandemic, and I was amazed at how smoothly everything went! I am incredibly grateful that I chose Dedola and I highly recommend them for all of your shipping needs!

Karen T. Griff Goods Amazon Company

A Pleasure to Work With!

We’ve been working with DGL for a year and a half. Their responsiveness, attentiveness, reliable delivery, and competitive pricing has made it a pleasure working with them. Unlike our last forwarder, we’re now in the loop with everything from status of deliveries to changes in pricing.

Name upon Request Matcha Importer

What is FCL and LCL?

The main difference between a full container load and a less than container load (LCL) is the amount of cargo being shipped. A full container load is a shipment in which an entire shipping container, typically a 20-foot or 40-foot container, is dedicated to a single consignee and their cargo. On the other hand, a less than container load is a shipment in which the cargo does not fill an entire container and is instead consolidated with other shipments to fill the container.

FCL shipments offer greater control, security, and cost savings compared to LCL shipments, but they are typically used for larger shipments. LCL shipments offer greater flexibility and cost savings for smaller shipments, allowing multiple shippers to share the same container and reduce transportation costs.

What is the cost of a full container load?

The cost of a full container load (FCL) depends on several factors, including the origin and destination of the shipment, the size and type of container being used, and the type of cargo being shipped. FCL shipping rates are typically calculated based on a flat rate per container, regardless of whether the container is fully loaded or not. This means that the cost of a full container load may vary depending on the container size and the destination, but it does not depend on the actual amount of cargo being shipped. In addition to the flat rate, FCL shipments may also be subject to additional charges, such as port handling fees, customs duties, and insurance costs.

A reputable shipping company, such as Dedola, provides accurate and transparent pricing information and helps navigate the complexities of international shipping. A full container load is an efficient and cost-effective way to ship large quantities of goods across long distances. It offers greater control, security, and cost savings compared to other shipping options, making it a popular choice for many importers and exporters. Speak to Dedola about the container loads for your next FCL shipment. If the container sizes should be larger and your cargo occupies a much larger space, you may need FCL shipping. Large cargo should preferably go in one shipper to minimize the cost. However, you can discuss the shipping terms and whether one shipper is better than different shipments in terms of cost. Instead of multiple shipments and containers, you may want to consider the exclusive use of one container. Speak to our transportation crew about your next delivery to learn more about how your next shipment can be loaded to your advantage.

Cost savings

FCL shipping maximizes container capacity, resulting in significant cost savings compared to other options.

Efficiency

FCL shipping streamlines the transportation process by consolidating a large volume of cargo into a single container, reducing handling and transfers.

Control and security

FCL provides greater control and security as the entire container is dedicated to the shipment, minimizing the risk of damage or loss from other cargo.

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Frequently Asked Questions

About our Ocean Freight Forwarding Services

We know how critical your shipment is to your business. Here are some of the questions that we’ve heard in our over four decades in the industry:

Can you calculate my pricing for a shipment?

Yes. If you have the information about the weight and bulk of your items, you can ask for a quote.

What ports/countries do you serve?