What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping and which is better for e-commerce?

FCL (Full Container Load): You rent an entire container exclusively. Your cargo is the only thing in it.
LCL (Less than Container Load): Your cargo shares a container with other shippers' goods. You pay only for the volume your cargo occupies.

Breakeven analysis for e-commerce:

• A 20GP container costs $800–2,000 base freight (China–USA) and holds 25–28 CBM of cargo
• LCL on the same route runs $20–40/CBM + consolidation/deconsolidation charges (~$80–150 each end)
• At ~15 CBM, LCL and 20GP FCL costs typically converge
• Below 15 CBM: LCL is usually cheaper. Above 15 CBM: FCL is usually cheaper.

For Amazon FBA specifically:

• LCL: Better for frequent small restocks, reduces risk of overstocking
• FCL: Better for pre-holiday restocks (Q4), lower per-unit cost, faster port processing
• FCL containers go direct to the warehouse; LCL adds 3–7 days at the deconsolidation facility

LCL risks to know:

• Longer transit (consolidation/deconsolidation adds 5–10 days)
• Higher damage risk (cargo handled multiple times)
• Contamination risk from adjacent cargo in the container

Use the <a href="https://calculatecbm.com/lcl-vs-fcl">LCL vs FCL calculator</a> to model your exact shipment cost at both options.