Suitcase shipping: everything you need to know

Avoid the stress and strain of lugging excess suitcases to and from the airport. Whether travelling overseas or studying in a new city, shipping suitcases and bags as excess baggage is a convenient and affordable alternative. From choosing the best shipping method to ensuring your belongings arrive safely, there are several factors you need to consider.

In this guide, we'll explore all the ins and outs of shipping a suitcase, including cost, packing tips, measuring your suitcase, prohibited goods and more.

How to pack a suitcase

To pack a suitcase efficiently, start by laying out the items you plan to ship, remembering to declutter first to save money and time.

Place heavier goods like shoes, hairdryers and toiletry bags at the bottom of your suitcase to create a stable base. Use all available zip compartments to store handy items such as umbrellas, rain jackets, sunglasses and paperwork.

Consider using packing cubes* or small bags to organise similar items and reduce wrinkles; for example, placing t-shirts and dress shirts in one cube and trousers and shorts in another. Otherwise, use tissue paper or plastic bags between layers to prevent items from rubbing against each other during the journey.

How to save space when packing a suitcase

To save space while packing a suitcase, choose versatile clothing that matches multiple outfits, such as black shorts and white t-shirts. Consider wearing bulky items like heavy boots or winter jackets while travelling instead of packing them.

Use vacuum storage bags* to reduce the volume of your clothing. Simply fold your items neatly inside the bag, compress the air with a vacuum cleaner, and seal it shut. Just like magic, you'll create at least 50% more space! But, be careful the extra weight created does not exceed our 30kg/66lbs limit per container.

Further maximise space by filling gaps with smaller items like gloves and ties and placing rolled-up socks inside shoes. And ensure toiletries are in a sealed bag to prevent spills. If shipping fragile items, cushion them with clothing or bubble wrap and pack them in the middle of the suitcase surrounded by soft fabrics.

Lastly, consider opting for a microfiber towel, which is more lightweight, compact and absorbent than a cotton towel.

_{*Seven Seas Worldwide doesn't endorse these products.}

Best way to ship a suitcase

The best way to ship a suitcase depends on individual considerations, such as your budget, how soon you need it, and where you're going.

First, choose a reputable international moving company that offers luggage shipping. Look for stand-out features such as door-to-door delivery, tracking, insurance, multilingual customer communications and customs assistance.

When buying a suitcase, pick one made of sturdy materials, such as reinforced plastic, aluminium or polycarbonate. Avoid cheap, thin or lightweight suitcases, which will likely incur damage during long shipping journeys.

Next, ensure your suitcase is within your shipping company's weight and dimensions limits. Pack it with clean, secure, organised items. Keep all handles unextended and zips secured, held in place with string or cable ties.

Then, determine how soon you'll need your belongings. Air shipping arrives quickest, while sea shipping is cheaper but takes a little longer, so be sure to book well in advance.

Consider also the environmental impact. Although much faster, if travelling the same distance, air shipping uses ten times more CO2 than road shipping and around sixty times more than sea shipping.