Comparing Sea Freight Rates per kg: Finding the Best Shipping Options for Your Business

Sea freight is one of the most cost-effective shipping options for businesses that require the movement of large volumes of goods across international borders. Sea freight rates are typically calculated based on either the weight or volume of the cargo and are offered in two main types, Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL). In this article, we will compare sea freight rates per kg across FCL and LCL for different commodities and help businesses identify the best shipping options for their specific needs.
 

Full Container Load (FCL) Rates:

FCL is a shipping option that involves booking an entire container via sea freight shipment, which is typically either a 20ft or a 40ft container, to transport goods. FCL is ideal for businesses that require the movement of large volumes of cargo or oversized items, as the entire container is used exclusively for their goods. The FCL option also provides greater security for the cargo as it is loaded and sealed at the origin and remains sealed until it arrives at its destination.

FCL rates are typically calculated based on the container's size, the distance between the origin and destination, and the commodity being shipped. Sea freight rates are also affected by various factors such as seasonality, fuel prices, and shipping line capacity.

When comparing sea freight shipment for FCL rates across different commodities, it is important to consider the density and weight of the cargo in ocean freight shipping. FCL rates for heavier and denser commodities such as steel, machinery, and vehicles are generally cheaper than ocean freight rates for lighter commodities such as textiles or garments. This is because heavier cargo takes up less space in the container and requires less handling, resulting in lower shipping costs.
 

Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Rates:

LCL is an ocean freight shipping option that involves sharing a container with other shippers, meaning that the cargo is consolidated with other shipments from various shippers. LCL is ideal for businesses that require the movement of smaller volumes of cargo or do not have enough goods to fill an entire container. The LCL option also provides greater flexibility as businesses can ship smaller volumes of goods more frequently.

LCL or ocean freight rates are typically calculated based on the volume or weight of the cargo, the distance between the origin and destination, and the commodity being shipped. Similar to FCL ocean freight rates, LCL rates are also affected by various factors such as seasonality, fuel prices, and shipping line capacity.

When comparing LCL rates across different commodities, it is important to consider the cargo's volume and the number of shipments being consolidated in the container. LCL rates for larger volumes of cargo are generally cheaper than rates for smaller volumes of cargo as the cost of consolidating and handling the cargo is shared among multiple shippers. However, LCL sea freight rates per kg for commodities that require special handling, such as hazardous materials or perishable goods, may be higher due to additional handling and documentation requirements.
 

Below is a table that summarizes the average sea freight shipment rates for different containers for both FCL and LCL shipping for different categories:

Container Type	Commodity Type	FCL rate	LCL Rate
20ft container	General Cargo	$1,500-$3,000	$100 - $200 per cubic meter
	Perishable Goods	$1,800 - $3,500	$120 - $220 per cubic meter
	Hazardous Materials	$2,000 - $4,000	$150 - $250 per cubic meter
40ft container	General Cargo	$2,500 - $5,000	$150 - $300 per cubic meter
	Perishable Goods	$3,000 - $5,500	$180 - $350 per cubic meter
	Hazardous Materials	$3,500 - $6,500	$200 - $400 per cubic meter
40ft high cube container	General Cargo	$3,000 - $6,000	$200 - $400 per cubic meter
	Perishable Goods	$3,800 - $6,800	$240 - $450 per cubic meter
	Hazardous Materials	$4,500 - $7,500	$300 - $500 per cubic meter

 

Note: Following ocean freight rates are based on the analysis of the year 2023. Rates may vary depending on different situations and may fluctuate every year.

Here is a comparison of FCL and LCL rates for different types of containers based on average values:

20ft Container:
FCL Rates: $1,500 - $3,000
LCL Rates: $100 - $200 per cubic meter

40ft Container:
FCL Rates: $2,500 - $5,000
LCL Rates: $150 - $300 per cubic meter

40ft High Cube Container:
FCL Rates: $3,000 - $6,000
LCL Rates: $200 - $400 per cubic meter

Note: It is important to note that these rates are only indicative and can vary depending on various factors such as the origin and destination, commodity being shipped, seasonality, and shipping line capacity. Businesses should work with a reputable shipping provider who can provide accurate and up-to-date rates based on their specific shipping requirements.
 

Comparing Rates Across FCL and LCL for Different Commodities:

When comparing rates across FCL and LCL for different commodities, businesses should consider the following factors:

Volume and Weight of Cargo:

The volume and weight of the cargo are critical factors to consider when comparing rates across FCL and LCL. FCL rates are generally more cost-effective for heavier and denser commodities as they take up less space in the container, resulting in lower shipping costs. LCL rates are generally more cost-effective for smaller volumes of cargo as the cost of consolidating and handling the cargo is shared among multiple shippers.

Frequency of Shipments:

The frequency of shipments is an important factor to consider when deciding between FCL and LCL. If businesses require frequent shipments of smaller volumes of goods, LCL is the better option as it provides greater flexibility and more frequent shipping options. If businesses require infrequent shipments of larger volumes of goods, FCL is the better option as it provides greater security and cost-effect

Special Handling Requirements:

If the commodity being shipped requires special handling such as refrigeration, hazardous materials handling, or oversized items, then FCL is generally the better option. This is because FCL provides greater security and control over the handling and transportation of the cargo.

Origin and Destination:

The distance between the origin and destination is an important factor to consider when comparing rates across FCL and LCL. FCL rates may be more cost-effective for longer distances as the cost per container is fixed, while LCL rates may be more cost-effective for shorter distances as the cost per cubic meter is lower.

Seasonality:

Seasonality is another important factor to consider when comparing rates across FCL and LCL. Shipping rates are often affected by peak season demand, which can increase rates across both FCL and LCL. However, rates for LCL may be affected more during peak season as the increased demand for consolidated shipments can lead to limited container space and higher rates.

Conclusion:

When comparing ocean freight shipping rates across FCL and LCL for different commodities,  sea freight companies should consider various factors such as volume and weight of cargo, frequency of shipments, special handling requirements, origin and destination, and seasonality. Ultimately, the best shipping option will depend on the specific needs and requirements of each business. It is important for sea freight companies to work with a reputable shipping provider who can provide guidance and support in choosing the best ocean freight shipping option for their business.