What are full container load and less than truckload?

1, Full container transportation
Full container transportation refers to loading goods neatly into a standard container and then transporting them through a container. This method is usually suitable for large quantities of goods, and the loading, unloading, and transportation of goods do not require the opening of containers, maintaining the integrity of the goods.
The characteristics of full container transportation are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Batch transportation: suitable for a large number of identical or similar goods, improving transportation efficiency.
Efficient space saving: Goods are loaded into containers, fully utilizing the space of transportation vehicles and reducing transportation costs.
Low loss: Due to the fact that the goods do not require unpacking throughout the entire transportation process, the possibility of loss and damage to the goods is reduced.
Unified standard: The use of international standard containers facilitates the transportation and transfer of goods worldwide.
Advantages and Disadvantages: The advantages of full container transportation lie in batch transportation, efficient utilization of space, low loss, etc., making it particularly suitable for large-scale cargo transportation. However, it also has some disadvantages, such as inflexibility in transporting small-scale goods and higher costs for certain short distance transportation.
2, Less than truckload transportation
Less than truckload transportation refers to the method of sorting and packaging scattered goods according to factors such as size and weight, and then transporting them through various transportation vehicles. This method is suitable for small-scale goods, usually provided by logistics companies for distribution services.
The characteristics of less than truckload transportation are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Small scale: suitable for sporadic goods, without the need for large stacking and bulk shipping.
Flexibility: It can pick, pack, and deliver goods according to demand at any time, suitable for different sizes and types of goods.
Strong adaptability: Strong adaptability for short distance transportation and multi-point distribution.
High cost: Compared to full container transportation, the cost of less than truckload transportation is usually higher because it requires more manpower, time, and resources.
Advantages and disadvantages: The advantage of less than truckload transportation lies in its strong adaptability, which can flexibly handle various sizes and types of goods, suitable for the transportation needs of scattered goods. However, due to its flexibility and small-scale characteristics, the cost is usually relatively high, and it is not as efficient as full container transportation in large-scale cargo transportation.
3, Comparison of application fields between full container load and less than truckload load
Application scope: Full container transportation is mainly used for the transportation of large-scale goods, especially international trade and long-distance transportation, such as intercontinental sea freight. Less than truckload transportation is more suitable for local or close distance transportation of small-scale goods, such as express delivery services within cities.
Cost comparison: Full container transportation usually has lower costs in large-scale cargo transportation due to the characteristics of batch transportation and efficient utilization of space. On the contrary, less than truckload transportation has relatively high costs due to its flexibility and small-scale characteristics.
Service characteristics: Full container transportation services are usually provided by professional international logistics companies, including loading and unloading, transportation, customs clearance, and other services. Less than truckload transportation is usually provided by local logistics or courier companies, providing flexible door-to-door delivery services.