LCL container – how to optimally use cargo space in general cargo transport?

Optimizing cargo space in general cargo transport is extremely important. Maximizing the use of the entire container area or consolidating shipments provides the opportunity to offer lower rates to customers, while maintaining transport safety. For optimization of loading space, you may want to use load planning systems available on the market.

Forwarding companies dealing with sea transport use LCL and FCL containers. Load planning apps such as Goodloading are perfect for less-than-truckload transportation, where multiple different-sized packages, often from different shippers, need to be stacked on the container area.

What is an LCL container?

An LCL (Less than Container Load) container is a special type of container used in general cargo shipping. This container is designed to transport smaller quantities of goods that do not take up all the space of a standard container. This is ideal for companies that opt for sea freight but do not have a large amount of goods to transport.

How to optimally use cargo space in LCL transport?

Effective load distribution planning

The key to optimizing loading is the correct placement of goods in the container. Weight distribution, cargo dimensions, various stacking options and cargo weights should be considered when planning. Maximizing space not only has a positive impact on the cost of transport as a whole, but is more environmentally friendly.

You might want to take advantage of assistive technologies, such as load planning apps like Goodloading, which allow you to optimize the placement of goods in a container.

Consolidation of shipments

To further reduce costs, consider consolidating your shipments. This involves combining smaller quantities of goods from different shippers into a single container. Sea freight forwarding companies often offer this option, allowing individual shippers to share the cost of transport.

Proper loading of goods

Planning the arrangement of goods, even the most effective one, may not bring the expected results if we leave the loading process to another person. During loading, it may turn out that the goods will not fit into the space of the container as planned.

To avoid such situations, it is a good idea to send a draft of the distribution of goods to the person responsible for loading. This document should contain a list of loads and their exact order. This way you get the peace of mind knowing that the goods will fit in the container and will be arranged in such a way that they can be safely delivered to their destination.

Loading project prepared in Goodloading

Why use Goodloading when planning general cargo shipments in containers?

Cost reduction

Efficient use of container space can directly translate into lower transport costs. In the case of a large number of loads, thanks to the quick calculations in Goodloading, it may turn out that fewer containers will be needed than initially assumed. Which, even if one planned container is eliminated, will be associated with significant savings. On the other hand, in the case of smaller suppliers, consolidating shipments into one container will allow the costs to be shared between them, so they can save on transport.

Save up to 120 minutes when planning loading

According to the app’s users, using Goodloading for load planning can save up to 120 minutes per project. Especially juxtaposing working with Goodloading with the need for manual calculations.

Building the image of a reliable partner

Companies using Goodloading often say that thanks to the app they are able to meet the requirements of their partners, which translates into better relationships and a growing network of customers. A reliable approach to work, looking for optimal solutions to increase savings or the use of modern tools make it possible for companies to deliver consistent, high quality services.

Ability to make decisions quickly

Thanks to the use of Goodloading, planners can quickly check the data about the load and make a decision about its transport. They have access to the necessary data, such as free and occupied space or load capacity, which allows them to select goods and maximize the use of available space. In the event of an emergency, they can quickly revert to the planned layout and correct it in a matter of seconds.

Increased cargo security

In Goodloading, you can set the center of gravity of the container and the cargo, which allows the goods to be evenly distributed over the container space and ensures stability during transport. In addition, in the app you can indicate how the goods are to be stacked to avoid stacking heavier loads on top of lighter ones and damaging the contents of the box. With visualization, companies can determine in advance how best to secure loads to minimize their movement during transport.

Integration with other systems

The app can be integrated via API with systems such as TMS, WMS or ERP, as well as with route planners or other tools that are open to integration with Goodloading. As a result, the company gets the functionalities of a load planner in one tool, without the need to switch between systems. This definitely improves the entire transport planning process.

Reducing negative environmental impact

Optimization of used space translates into better use of available space thereby maximizing available space and reducing the number of transports needed. This is especially crucial for companies that want to have a positive impact on the environment.

Want to check how Goodloading can support you in optimal container loading? Test the app for free.