Less than container load lets you ship dangerous goods when you do not have a full container of cargo. Your cargo is consolidated with others at a dangerous goods approved warehouse and shipped in a shared container. LCL for DG is available only on selected lanes and for selected classes, so we confirm acceptance before you pack.
When LCL makes sense
- Small or medium quantities that do not fill a container
- Regular smaller replenishment shipments to the same destination
- Trial orders and samples that are too large for express
What to know before choosing LCL
- LCL is limited to certain classes and lanes. Some goods, such as toxic gases and temperature-controlled organic peroxides, are generally not accepted for consolidation.
- Sailings are less frequent, and DG cut-off dates are earlier than for general LCL
- Cargo is handled more often, so strong UN packaging and secure palletizing are essential
- Segregation rules limit which DG goods can share a container
- FCL can be more economical than LCL above a certain volume, and we will tell you where the break-even point is
Documents
- Dangerous goods declaration and SDS
- Packaging inspection certificates from China Customs, unless exempt
- Commercial invoice and packing list
What we need to quote your shipment
Send us the details below and we will confirm routing, carrier acceptance and price for your LCL shipment.
- Product name, UN number, class and packing group (from the SDS, Section 14)
- Current SDS (16 sections) and, for batteries, the UN38.3 test summary
- Quantity, package type and gross weight per package
- Origin city or port, destination port or address, and Incoterm
- Cargo ready date and required delivery date
LCL FAQ
Is LCL cheaper than FCL for dangerous goods?
For small volumes, usually yes. For larger volumes FCL is often cheaper and faster because it avoids consolidation handling. Send us your volume and we will compare both.
See also DG Sea FCL and goods packaging.
Regulations are revised regularly. IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 is mandatory from 1 January 2026 and the 67th Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations applies during 2026. Requirements vary by carrier, port and destination, so please contact us to confirm the rules for your specific shipment.