Freight from the USA

LCL (Less Than Container Load) freight involves shipping cargo in boxes and crates from the United States. Use the online LCL freight price calculator to estimate international shipping costs.

Shipping freight LCL Vs. Other Modes of International Cargo Transportation

Shipping goods from the USA with LCL freight is a cost-effective way to deliver relatively large cargo from the United States to different countries worldwide.

If you're shipping a relatively large cargo from the USA that is too small to fill an entire 40-foot sea freight container and too large to ship with a parcel service, Less Than Container Load (LCL) is what you need.

Shipping sea freight is much cheaper than air freight.
Shipping LCL allows you to ship relatively large loads that cannot be shipped with parcel services.
When shipping LCL, you do not pay for the entire 20- or 40-foot container; instead, you pay only for the space you use in it.

LCL is best suited for small and midsize businesses and e-commerce. Unlike air freight or parcel services, you can ship sizable loads from the United States, which significantly decreases operational expenses associated with international cargo transportation.

LCL (Less Than Container Load) is the most cost-effective option for shipping U.S. household goods and personal items from the United States to international destinations. By packing your items in regular cardboard boxes or crates and opting for LCL shipping, you can save significantly on international shipping costs and avoid the high rates often charged by international moving companies.

If you handle large enough cargo and need to deliver the load from the USA abroad, you should always consider LCL freight.

LCL Shipping vs. FCL, Parcel Services, and Air Freight

Which is the best choice for your international cargo transportation from the USA?

LCL vs. FCL Shipping

FCL (Full Container Load) is recommended when your shipment is large enough to justify booking an entire container.

When FCL Excels:

You need exclusive container use
You’re shipping bulk commercial goods
Your cargo exceeds 15–18 CBM
An experienced international shipping company can help you decide whether LCL or FCL best suits your specific logistics needs.

LCL vs. Parcel Services

Parcel shipping (via UPS, DHL, or FedEx) is ideal for sending small boxes, samples, or e-commerce orders internationally.

Weight is under 150 lbs
Delivery speed is critical
You need door-to-door service
You're shipping single or dual boxes

Once your shipment exceeds 3+ boxes or 0.5 cubic meters in volume or is too heavy for parcels, LCL becomes a more economical way to ship internationally than with parcel services.

LCL vs. Air Freight

Air freight offers unmatched speed. It’s ideal for time-sensitive or high-value cargo.

When Air Freight Wins:

You need same-week international delivery
You’re shipping electronics, samples, or perishables
You value tight delivery windows
Weight is low relative to value

Use air freight for urgent deliveries and LCL for shipments with flexible deadlines.

Which Option Fits Your Shipment?

LCL Freight: Moderate shipments (0.5–18 CBM) not needing a full container
FCL Freight: Bulk cargo that fills or nearly fills a sea freight container
Parcel Service: Lightweight boxes or small packages under 150 lbs
Air Freight: Urgent or high-value cargo where speed outweighs cost

Ready to Ship From the USA?

Whether you send goods to Europe, Latin America, Asia, or Africa, LCL international shipping is your gateway to global logistics. It combines value, reach, and scalability. It’s one of the most affordable international shipping options for individuals and small businesses alike.

Start with our Online Freight Calculator to get an instant international shipping quote
Have questions? Contact Us for expert guidance on your shipping mode. Our international shipping company can help you evaluate your best option based on cost, destination, and cargo type.
New to international freight? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to LCL Shipping