Shipping SG to UK

[Britmummy2011]

Hi everyone,

I know most people will arrange shipping of their possessions through their company when they arrive in/leave Singapore...

But I wondered if anyone can recommend good shipping companies for us to use?

We don't have much stuff... just a few pieces of furniture, some musical instruments and about 10-15 boxes...

Would 'excess baggage' companies be better than shipping companies? What's the difference and do they take furniture?

If anyone can recommend any good UK/SG shipping companies that would be so helpful!

Thanks in advance

[beppi]

There are so-called "consolidators", companies who collect smaller shipments and send when a container is full. But this is expensive and the timing of shipment is uncertain.
Based on my enquiries a few years back, if you have more than 1/3 of a container load, you are better off sending a whole container only partially full.
For smaller items (probably not furniture) it is also cheaper and easier to send by Singpost. You won't find a better price for boxes that fall within their size range!
If you need full service (packing, collection from your home, all sending formalities - which is a lot of paperwork! - and unpacking at destination), you need an international Moving Company and will pay more for the service than for the actual shipment.

[Britmummy2011]

Hi Beppi, thanks for the info & tip about Singpost - this is quite a confusing business isn't it!

Roughly how much is a 'container load'?

Thanks!

[beppi]

Container prices vary a lot with the economic situation. Now is a cheap time!
We just got quotes for a full-service move to Germany, 2/3 of a 20' container, between S$8500 and S$15000 depending on the company. The container shipment alone is less than half of the lower price.

[Britmummy2011]

Sorry, I meant how much can you fit into a container load?

I think given how little stuff we have, it might be better to go with an excess baggage company...

[beppi]

Sorry, I meant how much can you fit into a container load?

I think given how little stuff we have, it might be better to go with an excess baggage company...

A standard 20' container holds 33m³ see http://srinternational.com/standard_containers.htm

[Britmummy2011]

Ok thanks for the info & help