LCL (Less than Container Load)
In the context of procurement, LCL stands for “Less than Container Load” and is an important factor when shipping goods. LCL refers to any shipment loading that does not fill a standard 20 or 40-foot container and can be thought of as the opposite of full container loads (FCL). This type of shipping involves combining multiple smaller shipments into one consolidated load, enabling lower cost movements of smaller volumes of products. By utilizing LCL, companies can enjoy the benefits of better economies of scale and improved levels of efficiency.