LCL

Less Than Container Load (LCL) is commonly used in international logistics, including Amazon’s Direct Import and Global Logistics programs. It allows businesses to ship smaller volumes of inventory cost-effectively by sharing container space with others.

Key characteristics of LCL shipping:

• Your cargo does not fill an entire container
• It’s consolidated with other sellers' goods in a shared container
• Typically cheaper than Full Container Load (FCL) for small to medium shipments
• Slower and slightly more complex due to consolidation and deconsolidation steps
• Commonly used for test orders, new product launches, or low-volume replenishment

In Amazon’s context:

• Used by vendors in FCA or FOB shipping models
• Requires precise labeling, packaging, and documentation
• May have longer lead times compared to FCL due to multiple handling points

💡 Example: A small vendor in Vietnam sends 4 pallets of inventory via LCL to Amazon’s fulfillment network in the U.S., sharing container space with other shipments.

In short:
LCL (Less Than Container Load) is a freight method where sellers ship partial loads that are combined into one container - a cost-effective option for small-volume international shipments to Amazon.