DACHSER expands its LCL network portfolio in sea freight

While most shipments from Scandinavia to China are handled at major European seaports, DACHSER offers a direct less-than-container-load (LCL) service from alternative ports, minimizing transit time and costs.

The coronavirus pandemic and its impacts, port congestion, and the lack of qualified personnel are keeping sea freight rates high. “LCL services are an attractive supply chain option for our customers,” says Claus Freydag, Head of Global Management Ocean. “Direct transport from Copenhagen and Gothenburg, for example, saves time and money while minimizing the risk of cargo damage.”

DACHSER transports the LCL containers to the container freight station (CFS) for deconsolidation, eliminating transit and transshipment times at large, busy ports. “Unloading containers at smaller CFSs can speed up the process,” Freydag continues.

In contrast to FCL containers, LCL containers are often given priority in the loading process. They are also considered a more environmentally friendly option, as they allow maximum utilization of the cargo space.

Predictable arrival times and reduced costs

In addition to its service on the routes from Copenhagen or Gothenburg to China, DACHSER offers other direct services from smaller ports and inland cities in Europe to the Asia-Pacific region. Such services are relatively rare on the market, and include a connection from Helsinki as well as routes from Prague, Basel, and Gdańsk to Shanghai.

From there, there are multiple departures per week to several high-demand areas within China. Overall, the LCL service offers predictable arrival times and significantly reduces transportation costs along the supply chain.