Direct freight answer · reviewed August 2026
How do I compare LCL and pallet shipping cost?
Build a comparable shipment scope before choosing between loose LCL cargo, palletised freight, or a parcel service.
Short answer
Compare the same origin, destination, Incoterm, currency, validity, and delivery scope. Calculate the physical volume and gross weight, then add the chargeable W/M minimums, pallet or CFS handling, documents, customs, destination fees, inland delivery, and storage exposure instead of comparing headline ocean rates alone.
Run the numbers
Build an LCL Quote Check
Start with the prefilled example, then replace it with your finished package, pallet, or cargo lines.
Your inputs · cargo lines & quote
Live resultAdd surcharges and local chargesOptional
A defensible workflow
Check these four things before you trust the result.
- Use the real tender form: loose cartons, crates, or pallet envelopes.
- Calculate CBM and gross metric tonnes without double-counting.
- List every fee by unit: W/M, shipment, document, pallet, or actual cost.
- Compare all-in cost and transit or handling constraints, not just the base rate.