When planning an international move, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing between groupage shipping and full container shipping.
The right choice can significantly affect your moving costs, transit time, and overall experience.
In this guide, we explain the differences clearly, compare both options side by side, and help you decide which solution fits your move best.
What Is Groupage Shipping?
Groupage shipping (also known as Less than Container Load - LCL) means that your household goods share container space with other shipments moving on the same route. Instead of paying for an entire container, you only pay for the volume you actually use, measured in cubic meters (m3).
- Shared container space
- Lower overall moving costs
- Flexible shipment size
- Longer but more economical transit times
- Apartments and smaller households
- Expats and long-term relocations
- Overseas moves where timing is flexible
What Is Full Container Shipping?
Full container shipping (also known as Full Container Load - FCL) means that you rent an entire shipping container exclusively for your belongings. Your container is sealed and transported directly from origin to destination without sharing space with other shipments.
Key characteristics of full container shipping:- Exclusive use of a container
- Faster and more predictable transit
- Higher fixed cost
- Suitable for large households
- You have a large shipment
- Speed is a priority
- Budget is less of a concern
Groupage vs Full Container Shipping: Key Differences
1. Cost
Groupage:- Significantly cheaper
- You pay only for the space you use
- Ideal for cost-conscious moves
- Higher fixed cost
- You pay for unused space if the container isn't full
2. Shipment Size
Groupage:- Best for small to medium volumes
- Ideal if you don't fill a full container
- Best for large households
- Suitable when volume exceeds 25-30 m3
3. Transit Time
Groupage:- Longer transit times
- Dependent on consolidation schedules
- More flexible timelines required
- Faster and more direct
- Fewer handling stages
4. Flexibility
Groupage:- Flexible volumes
- Flexible departure planning
- Ideal for non-urgent relocations
- Fixed schedule
- Less flexible but more predictable
5. Overall Value
For many international moves, especially private individuals and expats, groupage offers the best balance between cost and service quality.Full container shipping is best when speed and exclusivity outweigh cost considerations.
Which Option Is Right for Your Move?
Choose groupage shipping if:- You are moving overseas with a small or medium shipment
- You want to reduce international moving costs
- Your dates are flexible
- You don't need a full container
- You have a large household
- You need faster transit times
- You want exclusive use of a container
Why Many International Movers Choose Groupage
In reality, many people don't need a full container, even if they assume they do.Groupage allows you to:
- Share transport costs
- Avoid paying for unused space
- Your dates are flexible
- Access professional international moving services at a lower cost
How Simplo Helps You Choose the Right Option
At Simplo, we specialize in overseas groupage and international moving solutions.Our platform helps you:
- Estimate your moving volume
- Compare groupage options
- Understand realistic timelines
- Plan your move transparently