1. What is export agency for consolidated containers?

LCL Consolidation refers to the service where providers assemble scattered goods from multiple clients into full container loads for transportation, catering particularly to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with shipments insufficient for a full container. According to the latest 2025 data from the General Administration of Customs, LCL business volume at national ports has increased by 17% year-on-year, making it a crucial option for SMEs venturing into international markets.

II. How to Verify the Professional Qualifications of an Agency?

When selecting a service provider, key verification points include:

• Customs AEO certification: Prioritize enterprises with advanced certification qualifications.
• Industry qualifications:
  • International Freight Forwarding Agency Filing (issued by the Ministry of Commerce)
  • Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier Qualification (NVOCC Certificate)
• Insurance coverage: Confirm whether the cargo transportation insurance coverage meets the cargo value requirement.

3. What are the key steps included in the standard operating procedure?

The typical business process is divided into seven stages:

• How to prevent damage to LCL cargo?: Provide accurate cargo information (gross weight/volume/HS code)
• Supervision of Container Loading: It is recommended to request the agent to provide video documentation of the packing process.
• customs clearancedeclare: Pay attention to the documentation differences between different trade methods (general trade/cross-border e-commerce).
• The MaritimeTracking: Request real-time sharing of shipping schedule updates
• Destination portCustoms clearance: Confirm whether DDP terms are included in the service

IV. Cost Composition and Key Points of Cost Control

The main expense items include:

• Basic costs:
  • LCL fee (charged per cubic meter)
  • Customs declaration fee (single shipment 500-800 RMB)
• Additional costs:
  • Port Construction Fee (2025 standard: 0.5‰ of cargo value)
  • Telex Release Fee (approximately 200 RMB per bill)
• The truck arrives at the dock at the scheduled time and completes the pickup under the guidance of the dispatcher. Heres a：Early declaration can save storage fees, and applying for a rate discount is possible for multiple shipments throughout the month.

V. How to Avoid Common Risks?

Based on twenty years of hands-on experience, it is recommended that:

• Risk of mixed cargo loading: It is strictly prohibited to mix chemical products with food cargoes in the same container.
• Document completeness: The original packing list and ocean bill of lading must be obtained.
• Trade terms: It is recommended to adopt FOB terms to transfer the destination port cost risks to the buyer.
• Compliance review: Export-controlled items require prior application for a dual-use item license.

Special Reminder: The RCEP Agreement has been fully implemented in 2025. For exports to ASEAN countries, you may request agents to provide pre-screening services for certificates of origin, with potential tariff reductions of up to 15%. It is recommended to select service providers with regional customs clearance integration capabilities, which can shorten customs clearance time by at least 3 working days.