Groupage shipping from the UK
Ship part loads without paying for a full container. Groupage lets you share container space and pay for the volume you use. You reduce cost for small to mid size shipments. You still get door to door handling when you need it.
- Weekly and scheduled consolidations on key lanes
- Door collection across the UK
- Export packing and ISPM 15 crating options
- Customs clearance support at origin and destination
- Delivery to home or business address
What is groupage
Groupage is shared container shipping. Your items move with other shipments in the same container. We measure your volume in cubic metres and charge by the space used. This suits boxes, pallets, and part household moves.
- Best for 1 to 15 m³ shipments
- Lower cost than a dedicated container for small volumes
- Flexible collection dates with planned sailings
- Options for door to door or port to door
Why customers choose our groupage service
- You pay for volume used not empty space
- We consolidate in a controlled warehouse process
- We label and inventory each shipment for tracking
- We book sailing space early on regular lanes
- We coordinate customs documents before departure
How the process works
1. Survey and volume check
Start with an item list or a quick survey. We confirm volume and route.
2. Collection and export packing
We collect from your UK address. We pack for export and prepare an inventory.
3. Consolidation and loading
We move items to consolidation. We load, secure, and seal the container.
4. Shipping and tracking
We share milestones such as departure, arrival, and clearance status.
5. Customs and delivery
We coordinate clearance and deliver to the final address.
What you can ship by groupage
- Boxes and cartons
- Pallets and trade samples
- Small furniture and household goods
- Fragile items with crating where needed
- Excess baggage and student shipments
Transit times and pricing guide
Use these ranges for planning. Final rates depend on volume, lane, access, packing level, and season.
| Shipment type | Typical volume | Typical transit | Guide price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box shipment by sea groupage | 1 to 3 m³ | 6 to 10 weeks lane dependent | £220 to £480 per m³ |
| Part move by sea groupage | 4 to 10 m³ | 6 to 10 weeks lane dependent | £200 to £420 per m³ |
| Trade pallets in groupage | 1 to 6 pallets | 4 to 8 weeks lane dependent | Quoted per pallet and lane |
| Air freight for urgent items | 0.1 to 1.5 m³ | 3 to 10 days | £6 to £12 per kg |
Use groupage for value on smaller volumes. Use a full container for a fixed loading date.
Packing and protection
Groupage needs export packing because the shipment shares space with other loads.
- Double wall cartons for books and kitchen items
- Stretch wrap and blankets for furniture
- Crating for glass, artwork, marble, and TVs
- Clear labels and inventory numbering
Customs and documents
Rules change by destination. We check requirements before we book space.
- Passport or ID for the shipper
- Itemised inventory and values where needed
- Receiver details and delivery address
- Permits for restricted items when required
“We shipped 22 boxes by groupage. Collection was on time and delivery was organised. Updates were clear throughout.” Customer shipment
Frequently asked questions
What does groupage mean
Groupage is shared container shipping. You pay for the volume you use. Your items travel with other shipments in the same container.
How is groupage priced
Pricing is based on cubic metres and the destination lane. Packing, collection, and delivery can change the final cost. We confirm a fixed quote after we measure and plan the route.
Is groupage safe for fragile items
Yes with export packing and correct crating. We secure items during consolidation and loading. We separate fragile goods where required.
How long does groupage take
Transit depends on the lane and the sailing schedule. Many routes fall within 6 to 10 weeks door to door. We share an estimated schedule before collection.
Can you collect anywhere in the UK
Yes. We collect nationwide. We can also accept depot drop off if you prefer.
Do you offer storage before shipping
Yes. Storage helps when dates change. It helps when you need to ship on a later consolidation.
Ready to ship by groupage
Send your destination, dates, and an item list. We confirm volume and share a clear quote.
Chat with us!