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LCL Shipping from China to UK: Less than Container Load Guide

Published August 2026 · 10 min read

Quick Answer

LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares a container with other shipments. Best for volumes under 15 CBM. Cost: $120-220 per CBM. Transit: 30-45 days.

Key Takeaways

  • LCL = Less than Container Load
  • Best for under 15 CBM
  • Pay only for your space
  • Consolation adds 3-5 days
  • Cost: $120-220 per CBM

When LCL Makes Sense

Choose LCL when:

  • Volume under 15 CBM
  • Budget is limited
  • Flexibility is important
  • You ship regularly

LCL Process

  1. Cargo to CFS (container freight station)
  2. Consolidation with other shipments
  3. Export customs
  4. Ocean transit
  5. UK CFS deconsolidation
  6. Customs clearance
  7. Delivery

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Frequently Asked Questions

LCL means your cargo shares a container with other shippers. You pay only for the space you use.

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