FCL Shipping from China to Canada: Full Container Load Guide
Quick Answer
FCL (Full Container Load) means you rent an entire container for your cargo. Best for shipments over 15 cubic meters. Offers faster transit and less handling than LCL, and is the main option under sea freight.
Key Takeaways
- Best for shipments over 15 CBM
- 20ft: ~25 CBM capacity
- 40ft: ~55 CBM capacity
- Lower per-unit cost than LCL
- Less cargo handling = lower damage risk
Container Types
| Type | Dimensions | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | 5.9m × 2.3m × 2.3m | 25-28 CBM | Small shipments |
| 40ft Standard | 12m × 2.3m × 2.3m | 55-58 CBM | Large shipments |
| 40ft High Cube | 12m × 2.3m × 2.7m | 65-68 CBM | Light cargo |
FCL only pays off once there is enough cargo to fill the box. When volume is spread across several suppliers, consolidating cargo in China before shipping can pull it together before the container is booked; our shipping from China to Canada page covers the arrival side.
Why Choose FCL
FCL is the right choice when:
- Volume exceeds 15 CBM: More economical than LCL
- Cargo value is high: Less handling reduces risk
- Speed matters: No consolidation delays
- Special requirements: Temperature control, oversize
- Confidentiality: Single shipper, no mixing
FCL vs LCL
| Factor | FCL | LCL |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 15+ CBM | 1 CBM |
| Cost per CBM | Lower | Higher |
| Transit time | Faster | Slower (consolidation) |
| Handling | Less | More |
| Risk | Lower | Higher |
FCL Process
- Book container with carrier
- Container delivered to shipper warehouse
- Load and seal container
- Transport to port of origin
- Export customs clearance
- Ocean transit to Canada
- Import customs clearance
- Container delivered to destination
FCL Costs
- Ocean freight (base rate)
- Terminal handling charges
- Port congestion surcharges
- Customs clearance fees
- Inland freight to final destination
- Documentation fees
Booking FCL
- Confirm container size needed
- Know exact cargo dimensions and weight
- Prepare bill of lading
- Arrange customs broker
- Confirm delivery address and dates
- Arrange empty container pickup
Frequently Asked Questions
FCL (Full Container Load) means you rent an entire container for your exclusive use. You don't share the container with other shippers.
Choose FCL when your shipment exceeds 15 cubic meters, when cargo value is high, or when you need faster transit with less handling.
A 20ft container holds about 25 CBM. A 40ft container holds about 55 CBM. Choose based on your cargo volume.
FCL transit times are the same as regular sea freight: 15–22 days to Vancouver, 22–32 days to Toronto.
PLANNING FCL SHIPPING TO CANADA?
Plan Your FCL Shipment from China to Canada
Tell us your cargo volume, destination port and preferred timeline. Our team can review suitable full-container options.