Is groupage the same as LCL?
Yes. Groupage, LCL (Less than Container Load) and shared container shipping all describe the same operational product: cargo consolidated from multiple shippers into one ocean container.
Groupage Shipping Explained: The Cheapest Way to Ship Small Loads
Groupage shipping is the freight industry's cheapest sealed option for small UK loads. Here is how it works, what it costs in 2026, and how it differs from LCL.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum volume for groupage?
Two cubic metres on most UK lanes, although some short-sea Europe lanes accept one CBM.
How long does groupage take?
Roughly 5 to 10 days slower than FCL because the container waits for the consolidation cut-off; transit ranges from 7 days to Europe up to 55 days to Australia.
Is groupage cheaper than air freight?
Yes, dramatically — typically 70 to 90 percent cheaper per kilogram, though slower. See ${A('shared-container-shipping-vs-air-freight-which-is-better')}shared container shipping vs air freight</a>.
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