Trying to work out the best way to send bags overseas can quickly become overwhelming. Airlines charge hefty excess baggage fees, couriers seem expensive for anything over a few kilos, and air freight can feel like a luxury. But if you’ve got more than a simple carry-on and less than a whole container’s worth of possessions, there is a more practical option available.
At Overseas Packers & Shippers, we help Australians who are relocating, studying, or travelling long-term send extra bags and luggage overseas safely and affordably. As an experienced international removalist, we offer a groupage shipping service that allows you to share container space with other customers. It’s secure and cost-effective, not to mention ideal for those small-but-significant international moves.
What Are Your Options for Sending Luggage Overseas?
When it comes to sending bags overseas, the main options include air freight, international couriers, or groupage shipping via sea freight.
Air freight is the quickest method but tends to come with a premium price tag. It’s suitable if timing is critical or you need your items delivered within a week or two, but for bulkier items or full suitcases, the cost adds up quickly.
International couriers offer convenience and door-to-door delivery. While this works well for smaller packages, once you start sending multiple boxes or full-sized luggage, the price per kilo can quickly rival that of air freight.
Then there’s groupage shipping. This is often the most affordable option if you’re sending several suitcases, boxes, or small furniture items. It may take longer than air freight, but the savings are significant, especially when compared to airline excess baggage fees. You won’t have to compromise on what you bring, just because your luggage doesn’t fit within airline limits.
If you’re unsure which method suits your situation, it’s worth exploring all our available shipping options before making a decision.
What Is Groupage Shipping?
Groupage shipping involves combining your shipment with others who are headed to the same destination. Rather than paying for an entire container you won’t fill, you only pay for the space your bags or boxes occupy.
It’s a simple and practical method for sending luggage overseas from Australia. Your items are professionally packed, then consolidated in a shipping container alongside others. Once full, the container is sealed and sent off to your destination, where a local agent handles customs clearance and delivery.
This method is ideal for students, expats, and travellers who are taking more than just the essentials but don’t need a full household relocation. By using shared containers, you get a cost-effective solution with professional support throughout the process.
Pros and Cons of Using an International Removalist for Sending Luggage Overseas
There’s real value in trusting a specialist when it comes to international moves. Here’s what to expect when working with a removalist like Overseas Packers & Shippers:
Pros
- More affordable than booking excess baggage on flights, especially for heavier items
- Packing and wrapping handled by professionals trained in international shipping standards
- Door-to-door service, reducing the hassle of organising multiple transport legs
- Assistance with customs forms, declarations, and clearance
Cons
- Sea freight takes longer than flying, so it’s not ideal if you need your bags urgently
- Your departure date may need to align with the container’s shipping schedule
When it comes to balancing cost, convenience, and care, the benefits of using shared container shipping are hard to beat for anyone with several bags or boxes to move.
Tips for Preparing Your Bags or Boxes
Good preparation makes the move smoother and helps ensure your items arrive in great condition.
- Pack your belongings in sturdy suitcases or double-walled moving boxes
- Avoid including items that are restricted or prohibited in your destination country
- Label each piece clearly with your name, destination address, and a reference number
- Create a detailed inventory of what’s inside each box or bag for customs and your own records
Professional packing is available if you’d like extra protection for fragile or valuable items. Our trained team uses high-grade materials and methods tailored for international sea transport.
Why Choose Overseas Packers & Shippers
Whether you’re sending a single suitcase or several boxes, Overseas Packers & Shippers can help you get it there safely, securely, and affordably. Get a quick quote today.
