Sea Freight (FCL)

Bill Lin

CTO · Chrislion International Logistics

Last updated: Aug 7, 2026

What's FCL?

FCL (Full Container Load) means your shipment fills an entire container on its own — sealed at origin and unsealed at destination. It’s the best choice for large loads (usually over 15 CBM) or high-value goods, because your cargo is handled less, travels faster, and is never mixed with anyone else’s. As a leading China sea freight forwarder, Chrislion International Logistics(CSL) manages the whole journey for you.

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How to choose FCL or LCL

Factor	LCL	FCL
Container Usage	Shared with multiple shippers	Exclusive use, sealed origin to destination
Cost Model	Pay by volume (CBM) or weight	Flat rate per container
Transit Time	Slower (consolidation + deconsolidation)	Faster — direct routing
Security & Handling	Higher risk — multiple handling	Lower risk — sealed throughout
Ideal For	Under 15 CBM, small cargo	Above 15–20 CBM, bulk or high-value cargo

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Cost components of FCL transportation

Shipping Cost

Core cost determined by route, container type, and market supply. A 40ft container from Shanghai to Los Angeles ranges approximately $2,500–4,000.

Surcharges

Dynamic fees including BAF (fuel surcharge 15%–25%), PSS (peak season $300–800/box), and congestion fees ($200–500/box).

Port Charges

Terminal handling (THC: $150–300 for 20ft, $250–500 for 40ft), documentation ($50–150), and destination unloading ($200–600 per 40ft).

Land & Customs

Trailer fees vary by distance ($200–800 for US inland), customs clearance ($100–300 per ticket). Special container types and insurance calculated separately.

Cost Breakdown

Container types & specifications

Type	Dimensions (L x W x H)	Capacity (m³)	Payload (tonnes)	Best For
20GP	5.90 x 2.31 x 2.32 m	28-30	28.26	Small shipments, heavy cargo
40GP	12.03 x 2.31 x 2.32 m	58-60	28.78	Bulk cargo, standard FCL
40HQ	12.03 x 2.31 x 2.63 m	68-70	27.76	Lightweight / tall cargo
40RH	11.56 x 2.26 x 2.54 m	52-55	29.24	Reefer: large cold-chain shipments

How to choose a container type

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CSL Sea Freight Lines

We Chrislion International Logistics(CSL) work with leading shipping companies across the globe to secure the best space and rates for your ocean freight.

Our Advantages

Selling globally is hard enough — shipping shouldn't be the part that breaks your supply chain. We solve the three biggest logistics pain points overseas sellers face when moving cargo out of China.

Never Miss a Restock Window

Stockouts kill rankings and sales. We secure guaranteed container space on major lanes — even during Q4 peak season and Chinese New Year — so your inventory lands before you run out, not after.

No Surprise Costs, No Hidden Fees

Unexpected DTHC, demurrage, and "destination service charges" destroy margins. You get an all-inclusive, itemized quote upfront — the number you see is the number you pay, with zero last-minute add-ons.

Customs Cleared Before You Wake Up

Customs holds and missing paperwork can trap your container at port for weeks. Our licensed agents clear shipments early and handle ISF, HS codes, and duties — your cargo moves through without delays.

FAQs

When should I choose FCL instead of LCL?

FCL is usually more cost-effective once your cargo exceeds ~13–15 CBM (roughly 6–8 standard pallets). It is also the better choice for high-value, fragile, or time-sensitive goods, since the container is sealed at origin and stays sealed to destination with fewer handovers. For loads under ~13 CBM, LCL typically costs less. FCL also ships faster — no consolidation or deconsolidation stops along the way.

How long does FCL ocean shipping take?

Door-to-door FCL transit generally runs 3–6 weeks depending on the lane. Port-to-port: China to US West Coast ~14–20 days, to US East Coast ~25–35 days, China to Northern Europe ~30–40 days. Add 5–10 days at each end for loading, customs clearance, and inland delivery. Containers can also be "rolled" (bumped to a later vessel) when sailings are overbooked — booking early reduces this risk.

How far in advance should I book my FCL shipment?

Book at least 2–4 weeks before your cargo-ready date; during peak season (August–November ahead of the holiday rush, and around Chinese New Year in Jan–Feb) allow 4–6 weeks. Carrier space fills quickly and rates climb as the departure date approaches. Early booking secures better pricing and lowers the chance of your container being rolled.

What documents are required for an FCL shipment?

Core set: Bill of Lading (B/L), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Customs Declaration. The B/L comes in three forms — Original B/L (physical copy, mailed), Telex Release (electronic release, no original needed), and Sea Waybill (fastest, used between trusted parties). Some destinations also require a Certificate of Origin, import license, or dangerous-goods declaration. CSL's ops team prepares and cross-checks all paperwork to prevent customs holds.

What costs should I budget for beyond the ocean freight?

Beyond base ocean freight, expect origin/destination terminal handling charges (THC/DTHC), documentation and seal fees, customs duties and taxes, and — for US imports — a customs bond. Watch demurrage and detention: free time at port is typically 4–7 days, after which fees of USD 75–200 per day can apply. GRIs (General Rate Increases) and peak-season surcharges may also lift rates. CSL provides all-inclusive quotes with no hidden fees — request a full breakdown upfront.

Related Info

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