LCL vs FCL Break-Even
LCL charges by CBM; FCL is a flat container price. This calculator compares the two given your shipment volume and finds the exact break-even point.
Overview & methodology
Break-even math
LCL total = max(CBM × rate, min-charge) + fixed. FCL total = container rate + fixed. Break-even is (FCL_fixed + FCL_rate − LCL_fixed) ÷ LCL_rate. Real-world tie-breakers include transit time, cargo integrity, port congestion and free-time terms.
Frequently asked questions
At what volume should I switch from LCL to FCL?
Typically 12–14 CBM for a 20ft and 26–28 CBM for a 40ft, but it depends on your LCL rate per CBM, FCL flat rate, origin/destination charges and free-time. Use the LCL vs FCL Break-Even Calculator with your actual quotes.
Does FCL include CFS charges?
No - FCL is door-to-door or CY-to-CY. LCL rates typically include Container Freight Station (CFS) handling at both ends because the container is stuffed and stripped by the consolidator; FCL avoids this fee.