LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping lets you ship smaller quantities of goods via sea freight without paying for an entire container. Your cargo shares container space with other consignments, and you pay only for the cubic metres (CBM) you use.
V & S Freight arranges LCL services through Durban Port and all major South African ports, connecting you to consolidation services worldwide.
When LCL Makes Sense
LCL is ideal when:
- Your shipment is less than 15 CBM (under half a 20ft container)
- You're shipping trial orders or samples before committing to larger volumes
- You import regularly in small batches rather than bulk
- Budget matters and you can accept slightly longer transit times
- You're a new importer testing products before scaling up
When to switch to FCL
As a general rule, once your shipment exceeds 12-15 CBM, FCL becomes more cost-effective. At that point, you're paying near-container rates for LCL but without the benefits of a dedicated container. Compare LCL vs FCL →
How LCL Works
- Your cargo is collected at the origin and delivered to a CFS (Container Freight Station)
- Consolidation — Your goods are packed into a shared container with other LCL shipments heading to the same destination
- Ocean transit — The container ships to Durban Port (or your destination port)
- Deconsolidation — At destination CFS, the container is opened and your cargo is separated
- Customs clearance — We clear your goods through SARS
- Delivery — Your cargo is delivered to your premises via road freight
LCL Costs
LCL rates are quoted per CBM (cubic metre) or per tonne, whichever is greater. The general formula is:
Cost = rate per CBM × volume (CBM) + origin charges + destination charges + customs duty + VAT
Typical LCL rates to Durban:
| Origin | Rate per CBM (approx.) |
|---|---|
| China (Shanghai/Shenzhen) | R1,200 – R2,500 |
| India (Mumbai) | R900 – R1,800 |
| UK (Felixstowe) | R1,500 – R2,800 |
| Germany (Hamburg) | R1,400 – R2,600 |
| UAE (Dubai) | R1,000 – R2,000 |
Minimum charge: Most LCL shipments have a minimum of 1 CBM.
LCL Transit Times
LCL shipments take 5-10 days longer than FCL due to consolidation at origin and deconsolidation at destination:
| Route | LCL Transit |
|---|---|
| China → Durban | 30-40 days |
| India → Durban | 20-28 days |
| UK → Durban | 28-35 days |
| Europe → Durban | 27-33 days |
LCL Tips
- Pack carefully — Your cargo shares space with other goods. Proper packaging prevents damage.
- Accurate measurements — Volume is calculated on the outer dimensions of your packages. Reduce empty space to reduce costs.
- Insurance — Cover your goods. LCL shipments involve more handling.
- Documentation — Ensure all customs documents are ready for faster clearance.
LCL FAQ
Is LCL safe for fragile goods?
With proper packaging, yes. However, LCL involves more handling (loading, unloading at CFS). We recommend extra protection for fragile items and cargo insurance.
Can I track my LCL shipment?
Yes. We provide booking confirmation, vessel details, and tracking information. You'll receive updates at key milestones.
What is the minimum LCL shipment?
Most carriers set a minimum of 1 CBM. Even a few boxes can be shipped via LCL.
Book LCL Shipping
Request a Quote → | Call: 076 982 0036