Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: IMDG Code • Pilotage • FEU (Forty-foot Equivalent Unit)

LCL (Less than Container Load)

Term from Marine Travel industry explained for recruiters

LCL, or Less than Container Load, is a shipping method where multiple customers' goods share space in one container. Think of it like a shared taxi service for cargo - when companies don't have enough goods to fill an entire shipping container, they can split the space with others to save money. This is different from FCL (Full Container Load) where one company uses the whole container. Shipping coordinators and logistics managers often work with LCL shipments when handling smaller cargo amounts or managing cost-effective transportation solutions.

Examples in Resumes

Managed LCL shipments for 50+ clients monthly

Reduced shipping costs by 30% through optimized LCL and Less than Container Load booking strategies

Coordinated international LCL freight operations between Asia and Europe

Typical job title: "Shipping Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Logistics Coordinator Freight Forwarder Shipping Manager Import/Export Coordinator Transportation Specialist Cargo Coordinator International Logistics Specialist

Where to Find Shipping Coordinators

Professional Networks

Industry Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple LCL shipments need to be consolidated to reduce costs?

Expected Answer: A senior coordinator should explain their process of analyzing shipment schedules, destinations, and cargo compatibility to combine shipments effectively while maintaining delivery timelines and customer satisfaction.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to optimize LCL shipping costs?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with negotiating rates with multiple carriers, planning optimal routing, considering seasonal variations, and balancing speed versus cost requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when deciding between LCL and FCL shipping?

Expected Answer: Should explain considerations like shipment volume, urgency, cost comparison, destination, type of goods, and client requirements.

Q: How do you handle documentation for LCL shipments?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of required paperwork, customs documentation, tracking procedures, and how to manage multiple clients' documentation in one shipment.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between LCL and FCL shipping?

Expected Answer: Should explain that LCL means sharing container space with other shippers' goods, while FCL means using an entire container for one shipper.

Q: What basic information do you need to book an LCL shipment?

Expected Answer: Should mention cargo details like weight and volume, pickup/delivery locations, timeline requirements, and basic shipping documentation needs.