Moving abroad often involves shipping a significant amount of luggage and personal belongings to your new international destination. While packing up a lifetime of possessions is a sizable undertaking, finding an affordable way to transport all of your items overseas can seem like an even greater challenge. International shipping companies charge premium rates for luggage and the costs add up for multiple boxes and suitcases.
However, with some planning and research into the most economical options, it is very possible to ship your luggage internationally without breaking the bank. This article will explore the cheapest methods for transporting luggage across borders, including using consolidated shipping services, comparing delivery quotes, leveraging off-peak seasons, and optimizing packaging. Following these tips and tricks can help you save substantially on the shipping costs associated with relocating abroad.
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Air Freight
Air shipping your luggage internationally gets it there fast but requires customs clearance yourself or hiring an agent. If the shipping company doesn’t offer this, the airport transport burden is on you. Hand-carrying large bags can be slow and expensive too, so air isn’t always the cheapest option despite the speed. Ground shipping tends to cost less while still being affordable. When moving abroad, knowledge gaps exist in international luggage shipping. Some tips to consider are using consolidated services, comparing delivery quotes, leveraging off-peak times, and optimizing packaging to save on costs.
Courier Services
International luggage courier services like FedEx, Eurosender and UPS offer affordable rates of $30-50 per kilogram. they provide door-to-door delivery, online tracking and reliable worldwide transportation of items. While one of the cheapest options, couriering luggage internationally ensures timely and accurate delivery through modern technologies. Checking bags risks time-consuming customs waits at each destination but courier services help bypass this by consolidating customs clearances. Overall couriers offer a low-cost, convenient way to ship luggage internationally compared to checking bags on flights.
Sea Freight or Container shipping
Shipping luggage internationally by sea freight averages $5-10 per kilogram. Major carriers like Maersk, MSC and CMA CGM transport breakbulk and oversized items at reduced costs due to affordable maintenance versus air/rail. Benefits include conveying large/heavy loads and hazardous goods safely in secured containers. Regulations protect the environment, crew and cargo while declining cargo damage. Sea freight remains one of the cheapest options for transporting luggage overseas due to handling bulk shipments at low prices between ports.
Pros and Cons of Shipping Luggage Internationally
Shipping some baggage ahead is worthwhile if you’re moving abroad, traveling overseas long-term or with sports gear. Thoroughly research the most cost-effective ways to ship luggage internationally as methods have trade-offs. Sending items independently has benefits like avoiding excess bag fees and delayed luggage hassles but introduces customs clearance complexities.
Carefully considering shipping speed needs, item types, costs, and clearance challenges will help you determine the best international luggage transport strategy for your specific trip. Knowing the pros and cons is key to deciding whether shipping ahead fits your travel requirements.
The pros
- Checking baggage is faster and cheaper than excess/oversized luggage fees.
- Save on transportation costs by sending large bags ahead.
- Transfer more oversized items like sports equipment, and musical instruments.
- Door-to-door service eliminates transportation hassle and expense.
- Carriers pick up luggage and supply it right to your terminus.
The Cons
- International shipping can be time-consuming.
- Shipping through multiple countries can pose dangers, so take care.
- You may pay excess costs if luggage exceeds size requirements.
Is United Strict With Carry-On Size?
United Airlines has size restrictions for carry-on bags to ensure bags fit properly in the overhead bins or under the seat. The carry-on bag should be at most 45 linear inches which means the length + the width + the height should be at most 45 inches.
Most bags that are meant to be carry-on bags such as laptop bags or backpack bags fit this size. However, if a bag is just a little over, United may charge a fee to check it in as luggage. So it is best to double-check bag sizes before traveling with United to avoid hassle and fees at the airport security or while boarding.
Tips to Ship Your Luggage Internationally
- Research costs and compare shipping rates from major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
- Consider consolidating packages to ship multiple bags together for lower total cost.
- Leverage off-peak seasons in Jan-Feb and Sep-Oct when rates are usually lower.
- Use basic/economy ground shipping services rather than expensive express options.
- Ship luggage in plain cardboard boxes rather than fancy branded bags.
- Consider parcel forwarding services that consolidate international packages.
- Allow extra time for international ground shipping which can take 2-4 weeks.
- Properly package items and use bulky materials to prevent damage in transit.
- Consider maximum size and weight limits for luggage as overages cost more.
- Track shipments online through carrier websites for delivery updates.
- Insure valuable items in case of loss or damage during international transport.
FAQ’s
What is one of the least expensive options for shipping luggage internationally?
Surface mail/ground transportation is usually the cheapest option.
What shipping method should be avoided due to high costs?
Air shipping/air freight is best avoided since it is more expensive than other options.
What extra fees may apply when shipping overseas?
Import duties/taxes at the destination country if applicable.
What can make luggage shipping more affordable?
Using soft-sided luggage that takes up less space or consolidating shipments with others traveling to the same location.
What company is known for affordable international luggage shipping?
Big brands known for reasonable rates include DHL, FedEx, and UPS for international ground shipping of luggage.
Conclusion
shipping luggage internationally does not need to break the bank if you consider affordable options and plan accordingly. Surface transportation via mail or ground carriers is almost always the most cost-effective choice compared to air freight. Using soft-sided bags allows you to maximize space in shipments to keep rates low.
It’s also a good idea to ship consolidated packages with others traveling to the same destination to split shipping costs. Look into consolidator companies that specialize in transoceanic luggage transport and take advantage of volume discounts. Make sure to properly pack and protect your belongings to avoid damage during the journey.
Also check for any import duties or taxes required at the destination country. With a little research on rates from carriers like DHL, FedEx and UPS ground shipping services, you can find a cheaper way to travel light and have your bags delivered overseas without overspending on international baggage transport. Planning is key to keeping luggage shipping costs overseas as low as possible
