LCL Shipping: Small Shipments, Global Reach
FCL Shipping: Total Control, Maximum Scale
You shouldn’t have to wait for a full container to grow your business. Less Than Container Load (LCL) shipping—often called “groupage”—is the ultimate tool for companies that value flexibility, frequent restocked inventory, and cost-effective global access.
At Pisces Container Lines (India) Pvt Ltd, we specialize in the art of consolidation. We combine your cargo with other shipments to fill a container, allowing you to move your goods across the ocean without paying for empty space.
The Strategic Power of LCL
Pay Only for the Space You Use
Stop paying for air. LCL pricing is based on the volume (cubic meters) of your cargo, making it the most economical choice for small to mid-sized shipments.
Optimize Your Cash Flow
Don’t tie up your capital in massive inventory orders just to fill a container. Ship smaller batches more frequently to keep your warehouse lean and your budget healthy.
Agility in a Changing Market
Respond faster to market demands. If a product is trending, you can get a few pallets moving immediately rather than waiting weeks to compile a full container load.
Access to Every Port
Because LCL is a staple of global trade, we offer frequent, scheduled departures to and from virtually every major port in the world.
How We Handle Your LCL Journey
Stage
What We Do
Your Benefit
Consolidation
We expertly pack your goods with compatible cargo at our secure CFS (Container Freight Station).
Maximum protection and stability for your items.
Transit
Your cargo moves on premium carriers with scheduled weekly departures.
Predictable lead times for your supply chain.
Deconsolidation
Upon arrival, we prioritize the "stripping" of the container for rapid last-mile delivery.
Faster access to your goods once they hit the port.
Direct Routing
We aim for “Direct” consolidation services whenever possible, reducing the number of times your cargo is handled and significantly lowering the risk of damage.
Transparent Pricing
No “hidden port fees.” We provide clear, itemized quotes based on your exact cargo dimensions, so you can calculate your landed costs with confidence.
Proactive Tracking
Even though your cargo is sharing a container, it’s never lost in the crowd. Our systems provide individual HBL (House Bill of Lading) tracking for every pallet.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
Frequently asked questions
Supply answers your logistics questions, offering expert guidance and dedicated support for your shipping needs.
What is LCL shipping and how is it calculated?
LCL stands for Less than Container Load. If you don’t have enough cargo to fill a whole container, we "consolidate" your goods with other shippers. You only pay for the space you use, calculated by CBM (Cubic Meters) or weight, whichever is higher.
Is LCL safe for fragile items?
While LCL involves more handling at the Container Freight Station (CFS) during loading and unloading, we prioritize professional palletizing and crating. At Pisces, we treat every box as if it were the only one in the container.
How much longer does LCL take compared to FCL?
Generally, LCL takes 5 to 7 days longer than FCL. This extra time is required for the "Consolidation" at the start and "De-consolidation" (sorting the goods) at the destination port.
What is the minimum size for an LCL shipment?
The standard minimum is 1 CBM. Even if your cargo is smaller (e.g., 0.5 CBM), you will typically be charged for 1 CBM. For extremely small or high-value items, we can also advise if Air Freight might be a more competitive option.
What documentation do I need for LCL?
The requirements are the same as FCL: a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin. However, since multiple shippers share the container, accuracy in your Packing List is vital to ensure smooth customs clearance for the entire groupage.





