of
  • Service Alert due to Situation in Ukraine...More
Skip To Main Content
UPS Supply Chain Solutions®

Less-Than-Container Load

What is a Less-Than-Container Load (LCL)?

A term that means that freight is loaded in a container with other freight that may be owned by multiple, different parties with different Bills of Lading.


This method is cheaper than full-container-load (FCL) shipping and can be used when goods being transported are not large enough to fill a standard cargo container. Shipments are combined to save space.


Related Terms

Full Container Load (FCL)


Related FAQs


What are freight terms of sale?

What is cross docking?

What is LTL?

Box Icon

Get Started with an Air or Ocean Quote

On our UPS® Forwarding Hub, get and compare quotes, book shipments, and track them end-to-end on one modern, easy-to-navigate dashboard. Get a quote to start booking today.

Get a Quote Open the link in a new window UPS<sup>®</sup> Forwarding Hub Application on mobile devices
Mail Icon

Insight in Your Inbox

Never miss out on the latest industry news, expert insights, and promotions. We'll send you what you need to know to keep your freight moving.

Sign Me Up Open the link in a new window UPS Global Freight Forwarding promotional email on tablet