If you’re considering an international move, a shared container service is one of the most cost-effective and eco-friendly ways to ship your belongings.

But before you book, there are some important watch-outs to be aware of. Below, we outline the top five factors you should know, so your move goes smoothly, on budget, and without surprises.

What is a Shared Container Move?

A shared container move allows multiple customers to combine their shipments into one container, paying only for the space they use. It’s ideal for smaller moves, such as a few boxes or selected furniture pieces, and is available on major trade lanes including New Zealand, Australia, UAE, USA and the UK.

By consolidating shipments, this service:

• Reduces costs by splitting charges.
• Lowers carbon emissions by using fewer vessels.
• Cuts down on excess packing materials.

👉 In short: a shared container is a budget-friendly and sustainable option for international relocations.

However, it’s important to still be aware of any potential watch-outs. Let’s dive into those below:

1. Watch Out for Hidden Costs

While these moves are designed to save money, not every provider is transparent about additional charges. Common hidden costs include:

• Customs duties and port handling fees.
• Charges for bulky or heavy items.
• Delivery surcharges in hard-to-reach areas.
• Costs for special packing of fragile items.

Crown tip: Always request a detailed breakdown of what’s included. At Crown, quotes are based on volume, packing needs, item type, and delivery access, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for.

2. Understand Transit Times

Because containers are shared, departures depend on consolidation schedules. This usually makes shared moves slower than full container load (FCL) shipping.

• Expect longer lead times: often several weeks extra, depending on the route.
• Your shipment may wait to be grouped with others before leaving port.

Crown tip: If speed matters, ask about faster alternatives like air freight or dedicated container services.

3. Know the Packing Rules

With multiple households sharing one container, compliance is strict:

• Do use sturdy boxes, labels, and professional wrapping for fragile goods.
• Don’t include restricted items such as flammables, aerosols, perishables, plants, or batteries.

Crown tip: Our trained crews handle professional packing and guide you through restricted goods lists to avoid customs delays or rejections.

4. Keep Communication Clear

A groupage move involves multiple parties and tight coordination. Without clear communication, things can go wrong.

Look out for:

• Delays in container consolidation.
• Misplaced or mislabelled shipments.
• Poor tracking and updates.

Crown tip: With our global network and dedicated move managers, you’ll always have one point of contact and regular updates from packing to delivery.

5. Balance Sustainability and Speed

Shared container services are the greener choice: fewer vessels on the water means fewer emissions. However, sustainability can mean a slower journey.

• If lowering your carbon footprint is a priority, groupage is the smart move.
• If deadlines are tight, balance sustainability with speedier options.

Crown tip: We’ll help you match your priorities, from eco-friendly solutions to express services.

TL;DR — Key Takeaways

• Hidden costs can undermine savings, check what’s included.
• Transit times are longer with shared shipping.
• Packing rules are stricter, fragile and restricted items need special care.
• Communication is essential, choose a mover with a reliable global network.
• Sustainability vs. speed, weigh your priorities before booking.

FAQs

Is a shared container right for me?
Yes, if you’re not shipping a full household and want to reduce costs and carbon emissions.

How long does a shared container move take?
Typically longer than a dedicated container, expect a few extra weeks depending on the trade lane.

What items are restricted?
Flammable goods, aerosols, perishables, plants, and some batteries cannot be shipped.

Can I track my shipment?
With Crown? Yes. We provide updates throughout the move for peace of mind.

What destinations are available?
Major routes include the UK, USA, UAE, Australia, and New Zealand.

Why Choose Crown Relocations?

With decades of experience and a trusted global network, Crown Relocations makes shared container moves transparent, reliable, and sustainable. From professional packing to customs clearance and delivery, we manage every detail, so you can focus on your new beginning abroad.

📦 Move smarter. Move greener. Move with Crown.
Learn more about our Shared Container Service