LCL freight pricing
Understanding the figures in your LCL quotation
An LCL quotation is more than a price for the sea journey. The freight calculation uses cargo measurements and weight, while the complete movement can include collection, handling, documentation, clearance and delivery. Understanding the basis of each charge helps you compare offers accurately.
There is no single rate that applies to every LCL import to Ghana. Ask for a shipment-specific quotation using the final packing information and agreed collection and delivery points. The examples below explain measurements; they are not market prices or booking commitments.
Calculate the packed volume in CBM
CBM means cubic metres. Measure the outside length, width and height of each finished package in metres, multiply those measurements, then add the volumes of all packages. Include the space taken by the packaging or pallet rather than using the dimensions of the goods alone.
One crate measuring 1.2 m × 0.9 m × 1.1 m occupies 1.188 CBM. Three identical crates occupy 3.564 CBM. Different-sized packages should be calculated separately and added together.
Ask the supplier for the packed dimensions and gross weight. If a quote was prepared before packing was complete, confirm whether it needs revision once the cargo is measured. Keep measurement units visible in the packing list to avoid confusion between centimetres and metres.
Understand weight or measurement
Ocean LCL freight commonly uses a weight-or-measurement basis, often written as W/M. Under a common 1 CBM to 1 metric tonne basis, the calculation compares cubic metres with gross weight in metric tonnes and uses the larger figure. Confirm the actual basis, minimum and rounding rules in your quotation.
For the three-crate example, a gross shipment weight of 1,800 kg equals 1.8 metric tonnes. Comparing 3.564 CBM with 1.8 tonnes gives 3.564 chargeable units under that stated basis, before any minimum or rounding. If the same packed volume weighed 4,200 kg, the comparison would give 4.2 units.
Multiply the applicable chargeable units by the quoted freight rate to understand that freight line. Do not apply that result to every charge: a quotation can also contain fixed fees or charges calculated on a different basis.
Separate the main parts of the quotation
| Part of the movement | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| Origin | Supplier collection, receiving, handling and export documentation |
| Ocean freight | Rate basis, chargeable quantity and applicable surcharges |
| Destination | Arrival handling, deconsolidation and cargo release arrangements |
| Clearance | Agent service scope and separately assessed duties or taxes |
| Delivery | Transport to the agreed address and unloading responsibilities |
These are questions to put to the quotation provider, not a promise that every item is included. Ask BJH Logistics about LCL consolidation to Ghana and specify whether you need collection, clearance support and final delivery.
Check the service scope and supplier terms
Tell the forwarder the Incoterm agreed with your supplier and the named place. Ask how those purchase terms affect the services you need to arrange and pay for. Do not assume a supplier’s freight offer covers arrival charges or delivery to your premises.
For an import to Ghana, distinguish customs clearance service fees from any duties and taxes assessed for the goods. Review the current GRA import procedures and discuss customs clearance arrangements using an accurate cargo description and supporting documents.
Compare complete quotes using one cargo specification
- Use the same package count, packed dimensions and gross weight for every quote.
- Confirm identical collection and delivery points.
- Check the W/M basis, minimum charge and rounding method.
- List included services, exclusions and any charges still to be confirmed.
- Check the currency, validity period and payment terms.
- Identify the circumstances that could add costs, such as storage or special handling.
If cargo size changes materially, request an updated comparison. Our guide to LCL versus FCL for Ghana shipments explains why a dedicated container is worth assessing alongside a growing LCL order.
Prepare the information needed for a useful price
A useful request includes what the goods are, where they will be collected, when they will be ready and where they must be delivered. Add package dimensions, gross weight, supplier terms and any handling restrictions. If you only have an estimate, label it clearly and explain what still needs confirmation.
Check when LCL consolidation fits an import order if you are still deciding how to ship. Once the cargo and scope are clear, an itemised quotation gives you a better basis for a booking decision.
Request an itemised LCL quotation
Send BJH Logistics the package count, packed dimensions, gross weight, collection point and destination in Ghana. Include your cargo description and required delivery date so the quotation can address the complete movement.
Why can the final charge differ from an early estimate?
An estimate can change when final packed measurements, weight, service scope or quote validity differ. Ask which figures are provisional and request an updated quotation before approving the shipment.
Does a freight price include import duties and delivery?
Check the written inclusions. Ocean freight, clearance service fees, duties and taxes, and inland delivery are different items; an advertised or quoted freight rate should not be assumed to cover them all.
Further reading: DHL: LCL rate components · DHL: chargeable weight calculations
