Last updated: 22 October 2026

Airline baggage fees add up fast when you are moving abroad, studying overseas or going on a long trip. Shipping your luggage separately can be cheaper, easier and much less stressful than dragging four suitcases through an airport. This guide compares the main ways to ship luggage internationally, with typical costs, transit times and the customs rules you need to know.

Your options at a glance

Option 1: Luggage courier services

Specialist luggage shippers and major couriers collect your suitcase from home and deliver it to an address overseas. This is the most convenient way to ship luggage from the UK to the USA, Europe or Australia.

• Typical cost: about £60–£150 per 23kg case to Europe, and £120–£300 to the USA or Australia, depending on speed
• Pros: door to door, tracked, and no airport queues
• Cons: expensive for lots of bags; strict size and weight limits

Option 2: Sea freight, the cheapest way to ship lots of luggage

If you are sending more than about five boxes, sea freight is usually the cheapest way to ship luggage internationally. Your boxes share space in a container with other people’s goods (groupage) and sail on a container ship.

• Typical cost: often from a few hundred pounds for a small consignment to the USA, and more to Australia or New Zealand
• Transit: about 3–5 weeks to North America and 8–12 weeks to Australia or New Zealand, door to door
• Pros: very low cost per kilo; bikes and small furniture are fine
• Cons: slow; minimum charges apply; destination fees can surprise you

Want to know how your boxes travel? They go on the same container ships we book passengers onto. Read our international removals guide for larger moves.

Option 3: Airline excess baggage

Prepaying for an extra checked bag online is often reasonable on long-haul flights, typically £50–£150 per bag. Paying at the airport is almost always more expensive. It is simple for one or two bags, but costs climb quickly after that.

Option 4: Sail with your luggage

On a cargo ship, baggage limits are far more generous than on a plane. Passengers often take several suitcases, and sometimes a bike. For people relocating to the USA, Canada or Australia, travelling by freighter can solve the luggage problem and deliver an unforgettable journey at the same time. See what to pack for a freighter voyage.

Customs: what you need to know

• Packing list. Include a detailed contents list with values in every shipment.
• Personal effects. Used personal belongings are usually duty-free, but you may need to show your passport, visa and proof of address overseas.
• Students and new residents. Many countries offer relief for unaccompanied baggage arriving within a set period of your own arrival. Keep proof of your travel dates.
• Restricted items. Do not send batteries over set limits, aerosols, flammables, food, alcohol beyond allowances, or anything illegal at destination.
• Australia and New Zealand. Clean shoes, bikes and camping gear thoroughly, because biosecurity checks are strict.

How to pack luggage for shipping

1. Use strong cases or double-walled boxes, and avoid old supermarket boxes.
2. Put a copy of your address and phone number inside each item.
3. Fill empty space so nothing moves around.
4. Weigh every item before you book, because couriers charge by actual or volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
5. Photograph the contents in case you need to make an insurance claim.

Frequently asked questions