Complete Guide to LCL Shipping from China
Everything importers need to know about Less than Container Load shipping from China — costs, transit times, documentation, and best practices.
By Joe Zhou
Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping is the most cost-effective way to move cargo from China when your shipment doesn't fill an entire container. Instead of paying for unused container space, your goods are consolidated with other shipments at a Container Freight Station (CFS) and shipped together.
Typical LCL transit from China to the US West Coast is 18–25 days port-to-port, plus customs clearance and inland delivery. Rates are calculated per cubic meter (CBM) or by weight/measurement (W/M), whichever is greater.
Key documents include commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and export customs declaration. Working with an experienced LCL forwarder like TENCO ensures smooth documentation and reliable delivery.