FCL or LCL: choosing the right ocean freight option
Compare shared and dedicated container space using your packed volume, handling needs and complete delivery scope.
Read the guide
TAKE YOUR KNOWLEDGE FURTHER
A little clarity goes a long way.
Want to explore the details? Read Saudi Global guides on shipping modes, costs and the freight process.
Request a quoteFREIGHT, EXPLAINED
Useful terms. Plain language.
A quick reference for the details we ask for in your quote.
- FCLFull container load
- Your shipment uses a dedicated container. Specify the equipment type and number of containers if known.
- LCLLess than container load
- Your goods share container space. Packed dimensions, weight and package count help define the shipment.
- KGGross weight
- The weight of the goods together with their packaging and pallets. Use the total for all shipping units.
- M³Packed volume
- The space occupied by the packed goods, expressed in cubic metres. Outer dimensions help us assess it.
- DATECargo-ready date
- When the goods are packed and available for collection. This is different from the date you want them delivered.
- SCOPEService scope
- The exact stages included in the quote, from the agreed starting point to the agreed endpoint.
FREIGHT KNOWLEDGE
Better prepared. Better decisions.
How to prepare a freight quote request
A practical brief that connects cargo details, supplier readiness, delivery needs and the services you want included.
Read the guideWhat should a freight quote include?
Read the total scope, understand exclusions and compare quotes that cover the same shipment and journey.
Read the guideA CLEARER FREIGHT QUOTE
Know what you are comparing.
A price becomes useful when the cargo details, service scope and assumptions are clear.
Read the scope
Check where the service starts and ends: supplier address, departure terminal, arrival terminal or final delivery. Ask which pickup, customs coordination and destination services are included.
Prepare consistent cargo details
Use one packing list with the goods, number of outer units, gross weight and dimensions. If packing changes, let us know so the shipment can be reassessed before booking.
Put dates in context
Share both the cargo-ready date and your delivery goal. Ask what the quoted timing covers, and what still depends on schedules, cargo acceptance or clearance.
STRAIGHT ANSWERS
A few answers
before you ship.
Every shipment has its own requirements. Here are the essentials to get started.
Ask us a questionHow much does international shipping cost?
The cost depends on the route, transport mode, commodity, weight, dimensions and services required. Send these details for a shipment-specific quote. Also confirm any local fees, duties and expenses that are excluded.
How long will my shipment take?
Timing depends on origin, destination, transport mode and availability. Pickup, connections, customs clearance and final delivery also affect the schedule. An estimate is provided for your route; there is no single transit time for every shipment.
What information and documents do I need?
To start a quote, share the origin, destination, commodity description, package count, weight and dimensions. For commercial cargo, a commercial invoice and packing list are commonly part of the documentation. Additional documents are confirmed for the cargo and countries involved.
Do I need to fill an entire container?
No. With ocean freight, FCL reserves a container for your cargo, while LCL shares space with other shipments. The right option depends on volume, route and operating conditions. We can also assess air freight where appropriate.
Do you coordinate customs clearance and delivery?
Yes. We can coordinate customs clearance and warehousing with licensed partners, as well as inland transport to the final destination. These services must be included in the agreed quote. Tell us if you need door-to-door pickup and delivery.
Can I send just a few boxes or suitcases when moving?
Yes, we also assist individuals with small international moving shipments. Send an item list, the number of boxes or suitcases, weight, dimensions and route. We will assess feasibility and requirements for your shipment.