FCL vs LCL vs GroupageWhich Shipping Option Is Right for Your Move?

FCL (Full Container Load) is the right fit for larger volumes. Volumes from 500 to 1,100 ft³ generally compare well with a 20ft FCL, while volumes over 1,100 ft³ point toward a 40ft FCL. LCL (Less than Container Load) is for mixed goods and requires professional skidding/palletization to protect your items in a commercial freight container. Groupage is a shared household goods consolidation without a blanket skidding rule, which can lower costs on popular routes if you have flexible timing.

Door-to-door transit times vary widely by route, service level, port congestion, weather, and customs clearance. No fixed transit guarantees apply. Always treat published transit times as estimates, as circumstances outside a mover's control can shift dates.

A typical international moving quote covers origin services (packing, wrapping, loading), ocean or air freight, basic customs documentation and destination services (unloading and delivery). It usually does not include duties and taxes, marine insurance for personal effects, storage beyond a free period, long-carry or shuttle fees at properties with restricted access, or destination charges that the receiving country may apply. Always ask your provider for a written, itemised quote so you can see exactly what is and is not included.

Air freight is primarily suited for loose boxes and priority items. It is often most practical for volumes around 100 ft³, though there is no hard maximum if the budget permits. The cost premium is significant, so it is normally reserved for essential items you need immediately upon arrival.

Standard carrier liability is usually very limited and is calculated by weight, not by the real value of your goods. Marine transit insurance for personal effects is strongly recommended for international moves and is normally quoted separately based on the declared replacement value of your shipment. Be sure to ask your mover for the policy wording, the deductible, and whether high-value items, electronics and antiques need to be listed individually.

Destination charges are fees applied at the arrival country to release, clear and deliver your shipment — they cover terminal handling, customs clearance, document fees, port storage and local delivery. They are usually quoted separately because they depend on the destination country, port, terminal and the specific service provider on the receiving end. Our destination charges guide explains the typical components so you can compare quotes fairly.

Vehicles can sometimes travel inside an FCL container with household goods, but import regulations, taxes, and duties vary heavily by destination. We do not provide specific legal or vehicle import advice; always confirm the destination's exact vehicle rules with a specialist before proceeding.