Shipping Freight LCL Vs. Parcels and International Moving Companies

Understanding the differences between LCL (Less-than-Container Load), parcel services, and services from international moving companies is crucial when sending goods from the United States overseas.

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A. LCL Vs. Parcel Services

LCL has become the most affordable method for transporting relatively sizable or heavy loads. Suppose your cargo exceeds approximately 0.5 cubic meters (20+ cubic feet) or 100+ kilograms (220+ lbs). In that case, LCL is certainly a more cost-effective way to ship items overseas than parcel services like USPS, FedEx, or DHL.

A.1 Self-Delivery to CFS (Container Freight Stations)

When using LCL through an international shipping company, freight rates are based on volume (cubic meters or feet), not weight. This is unlike parcel services, where weight heavily influences prices.

However, even though LCL freight rates are affordable, a minimum charge applies, usually equivalent to one cubic meter. Even if your cargo measures less, you’ll still pay for one cubic meter. Some destination countries may have a two or three-cubic-meter minimum.

✔ Tip: Sometimes, customers using our online calculator ask why prices don't change when adjusting cargo dimensions. This occurs because the total volume hasn't exceeded the one-cubic-meter minimum. Charges only increase when volume goes beyond this threshold.

A.2 Destination Charges (Local Charges)

Regardless of the mode of transportation and shipping company you deal with, all imports are subject to destination charges, also known as "local charges."

Destination charges (sometimes called local charges) occur at the destinations. Therefore, they are not considered freight charges. These are separate from ocean freight and must be paid by the consignee (recipient) at the destination.

✔ Even if a Bill of Lading states the freight is prepaid, local charges still apply and are not included in quotes. Understanding this distinction is important when evaluating your full international shipping costs.

In summary, parcel services may be cheaper for smaller shipments. However, LCL is a more affordable international shipping option for larger or heavier shipments.
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B. LCL Vs. International Moving Companies

When relocating overseas, you face a choice between convenience and price:

• If convenience is your priority and your budget allows, hiring an international moving company may be the right choice.
• These companies may offer full-service solutions, including packing, labor, and handling export/import formalities.
• Some provide door-to-door services and manage everything from pick-up to delivery overseas.

However, these services are pretty expensive. If you cover the expenses yourself, consider using an ocean carrier with assistance from a U.S. freight forwarder for a more budget-friendly solution.

✔ One smart approach: Hire a domestic mover to pack and deliver your goods to an ocean carrier terminal called CFS - Container Freight Station. Ensure they understand ISPM 15 compliance rules (used for wood packaging materials), as violations could cause delays or fines.
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C. Shipping LCL from the U.S.

You can ship personal items and household goods overseas using Less-than-Container Load service, even if you are not a commercial exporter. Many individuals use this service as an affordable international shipping method when relocating or sending personal belongings abroad.

You do not need to hire an expensive international moving company to ship your belongings from the USA. Instead, you can apply to a U.S. freight forwarder to manage your overseas shipment.

How Less-than-Container Load service works:

Your palletized or crated cargo shares space in a 40-foot ocean container with shipments from other exporters. You are charged only for the volume your shipment occupies, measured in cubic meters or cubic feet. This makes it one of the most cost-effective international shipping options for mid-sized loads.

Who handles what:

As a shipper, you are responsible for:

• Packing your cargo securely
• Completing the required documentation
• Delivering your cargo to a CFS or requesting a pickup

The international shipping company handles:

• Container consolidation
• Export documentation filing
• U.S. Customs clearance, if not subject to special U.S. export regulations
• Booking and transit to the destination country

Once the shipment arrives, the consignee (the recipient) receives an arrival notice and pays the destination charges - local fees for the import recovery.

Why LCL Is a Better Choice for Budget-Conscious Shippers:

• You pay only for the space you use, not for an entire container
• You can self-deliver your cargo to a terminal, which significantly reduces the international shipping cost
• Pickup from your location is optional and calculated based on your ZIP code
• You avoid the high labor and service markups associated with international moving companies

✔ Tip: Use our freight cost calculator to compare self-delivery vs. pickup rates and understand your total budget.

Avoiding Overcharges:

Many shippers are unaware that inland trucking and handling fees, called pre-carriage costs, can account for a significant portion of the total shipment price. If possible, deliver your load at a nearby CFS to eliminate these expenses.

Common Questions About LCL:

Is LCL only for businesses?

• No. LCL is available to individuals, families, and small businesses. You don’t need a business license to ship household goods internationally.

Can I ship furniture, appliances, or boxes of personal items?

• Yes. LCL can be used to ship a wide range of cargo types as long as the goods are securely packaged and labeled.

Do I need to palletize my boxes?

• Not necessarily. If you deliver loose boxes to the CFS, they will palletize them for you (usually for a flat fee of $35–$75 per pallet). This ensures the cargo meets ISPM 15 regulations and is secured for sea transit.

Who pays the destination charges?

• The consignee (recipient) always pays the destination charges. These are standard port and handling fees that apply regardless of the mode of transportation.

Final Word

Whether relocating, sending gifts, or conveying merchandise overseas, Less-than-Container Load through a reliable international shipping company is the most affordable way to ship goods from the USA abroad.

With careful planning, accurate volume estimation, and innovative self-delivery or terminal drop-off, you can save hundreds, even thousands, without compromising reliability.