The Weight or Measure (W/M) Principle
Ocean consolidation carriers charge LCL freight based on "Weight or Measure" (W/M). The standard maritime conversion is:
1 Cubic Meter (CBM) = 1 Metric Tonne (1,000 kg)
The carrier evaluates both figures and charges the larger one. The billable unit is known as a Revenue Ton (RT) or Freight Ton (FT).
Worked Example of LCL Rating
Suppose an exporter books a shipment measuring 4.2 CBM and weighing 1,500 kg:
* Measure (Volume): 4.2 CBM = 4.2 RT
* Weight: 1,500 kg ÷ 1,000 = 1.5 MT = 1.5 RT
* Chargeable basis: max(4.2, 1.5) = 4.2 Revenue Tons (Volume wins).
If the freight rate is $75 per W/M, base ocean freight is 4.2 × $75 = $315.00.
Beware Hidden Destination and Port Handling Charges
Base ocean freight on LCL is often very low (or even zero in aggressive forwarder marketing). However, consolidators apply Container Freight Station (CFS), Terminal Handling Charges (THC), documentation, and de-consolidation fees at the destination port per Revenue Ton. Always request a full door-to-door quotation.