A Study of Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) Bookings to Assess the Feasibility of Developing Temperature-Controlled LCL Container Booking Software for International Shipping

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study the booking process of full container load (FCL) and lessthan-container load (LCL) shipments, and (2) analyze the feasibility of developing a temperature-controlled LCL container booking software for international maritime exports. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative phase involved a survey of 393 respondents, while the qualitative phase included in-depth interviews with 18 key informants. The research instruments were validated for reliability and validity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The findings revealed that respondents placed high to very high importance on product quality control factors, particularly types of temperature-sensitive goods (X̄ = 4.60) and required temperature levels (X̄ = 4.52). Other factors such as container size, transport duration, and route were rated as “high” (overall booking factors X̄ = 4.29). Regarding the feasibility of developing the LCL Reefer platform, the overall assessment was also at a “high” level (X̄ = 4.31), with the highest scores in software development feasibility (X̄ = 4.50) and market and customer potential (X̄ = 4.47). These results indicate strong commercial opportunities and technological readiness within the country. Qualitative findings supported the quantitative results, suggesting that the proposed LCL Reefer platform could reduce logistics costs for small and medium-sized exporters, increase booking flexibility, and enhance transparency through the integration of IoT and real-time tracking, container space consolidation, and data connectivity with ports and shipping lines via API. Experts also agreed that developing domestic software would help reduce dependence on foreign booking platforms and strengthen Thailand’s digital capability. In conclusion, the study confirms that developing a temperature-controlled LCL container booking platform in Thailand is technically and commercially feasible. It addresses the needs of temperature-sensitive export markets and offers potential for commercialization while contributing to green logistics policies and promoting national digital sovereignty in maritime transport technology. © Copyright by Author(s)| ICBTS 2026 Tokyo 302 International Academic Multidisciplinary Research Conference Tokyo 2026