Ocean freight consolidation is the process of combining smaller shipments, often from several suppliers, into one container to reduce cost per unit. Goods are collected at a consolidation point near the port of loading, packed into a shared or full container, and shipped together. They are then deconsolidated at destination. Why it matters for your supply chain: Consolidation lowers shipping costs and reduces the number of separate bookings and documents to manage. It can also cut carbon emissions per unit by improving container use. Related terms: Buyers consolidation, Less than container load (LCL), Full container load (FCL), Deconsolidation Find out more: Ocean freight consolidation