What Are the Differences in FCL Container Sizes?

What Are the Differences in FCL Container Sizes?

When it comes to Full Container Load (FCL) shipping, there are two common container sizes: 20-foot and 40-foot.
Understanding the differences between these sizes can help you choose the right container for your shipping needs.

What is FCL?

Full Container Load (FCL) shipping is a method where an entire container is filled with goods from one shipper.
This container is then transported directly to the destination without waiting for other cargo to share the space.

This is different from Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping, where multiple shippers share container space.
(Click here for more LCL info)

There are two main container sizes in FCL shipping:

1. 40-Foot Container:
   - Volume: Approximately 67.5 cubic meters
   - Suitable for large-scale shipments and long-distance international transport.

2. 20-Foot Container:
  - Volume: Approximately 33.2 cubic meters
  - Ideal for smaller shipments or when goods need to be transported to multiple destinations.

The 40-foot container has about twice the capacity of the 20-foot container.
However, the specific weight capacity depends on the container type and manufacturing standards.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Container Size

1. Cargo Size and Quantity**:

   Choose based on the total volume and dimensions of your goods.
 

2. Nature and Material of Goods**:

   Consider whether the items are fragile, flammable, or hazardous.

3. Cargo Shape and Packaging**:

   The shape and packaging method can affect how well the goods fit into the container.

A 40-foot container is usually used for:

   - Large-scale shipments

   - Long-distance international transport

   - Big projects requiring the transportation of large items

Despite the higher cost, a 40-foot container can be more cost-effective per unit volume.
The choice between a 40-foot and a 20-foot container depends on the cargo size, weight, shipping distance, urgency, and budget.

What if You Have Excess Goods?

If a 40-foot container isn't enough to hold all your goods, consider whether to add a 20-foot container or use a 40-foot container plus LCL shipping for the excess.
The decision depends on your shipment's specifics and cost considerations.

Goods must be suitable for long-distance transport and long-term storage, as FCL shipping typically takes 18-20 working days. Suitable goods include:

- Small Items: Small appliances, clothing, shoes, household items

- Retail Products: Cosmetics, food, toys, stationery

- Parts and Accessories: Machinery parts, automotive parts, electronic components

- Furniture and Home Goods: Furniture, home decorations, lighting fixtures

- Building Materials: Timber, stone, construction materials

- Chemical Products: Fertilizers, paints, plastic products
 

Not all items can be shipped via FCL. Prohibited items include:

   - Live plants and animals

   - Perishable goods

   - Currency

   - Weapons and ammunition

   - Hazardous goods without proper import/export licenses