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How to Send Excess Baggage Overseas

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DHL employees load luggage onto a truck as part of their luggage transfer service

Embarking on a journey abroad often sparks a mix of excitement and anxiety. Imagine the bustling airports, the promise of new experiences, and the thrill of exploring a different culture. Yet, for the 2.5 million Indians who migrate overseas each year—leading the world in global migration according to an article published by Money Control—the adventure is not without its challenges. From the United States and Canada to Singapore, Indians are spreading across the globe, seeking new opportunities in education, work, and lifestyle. However, amidst the anticipation lies a common logistical headache: managing excess baggage.

Navigating airline baggage restrictions is not just a traveller's concern but a significant hurdle for those relocating internationally. From voluminous personal belongings to bulky household items, fitting a life into airline luggage allowances can be daunting. This is where DHL steps in with reliable luggage courier service and international baggage shipping solutions, transforming the arduous task of moving abroad into a streamlined, stress-free experience. Relocating Indians can bypass the hassles of airline restrictions and ensure their possessions are handled with care and efficiency, making the transition to a new country smoother and more enjoyable.

Tips for packing excess baggage for overseas shipping

Efficiently packing your baggage for international relocation is vital to ensuring that your belongings arrive safely and intact. Here are essential smart packing tips for excess baggage, offering strategies to prepare your items effectively for overseas shipment:

1. Classify your shipment 

Recognise that luggage falls under the category of personal effects, which means they are intimately associated with an individual and typically include items that are worn or carried. Different countries have varied regulations for personal effects, so understanding this classification helps in preparing the necessary documents for smooth customs clearance.

2. Pack smartly

  • Protect fragile items: Wrap fragile items individually with protective material and fill all void spaces in the box to prevent movement. Consider using a 'fragile' label on the outer box to alert handlers.
  • Secure all musical instruments: Store these in hard cases and fill any gaps with padding to avoid damage during transit.
  • Manage weight distribution: Ensure that heavy items are placed at the bottom of your suitcase or box, and lighter items on top to prevent crushing. This also aids in maintaining balance and stability of the package during handling.

3. Weatherproof your excess baggage

  • Sending luggage by sea freight: Pack moisture-sensitive items in sealed waterproof bags to safeguard against sea humidity and potential water exposure. We recommend using robust, waterproof outer packaging like plastic bins or specially treated boxes to provide an additional layer of protection against the elements.
  • Sending luggage by air freight: Choose lightweight protective materials to minimise overall weight, effectively reducing the excess baggage rate, while still maintaining adequate protection. Additionally, when shipping liquids, use leak-proof bags and secure the seals to prevent leakage during the pressure changes and movements typical of air transit.

4. Select appropriate packing materials

For heavy items weighing over 10 kilograms, opt for double or triple-walled cardboard boxes that can withstand the stress during transport. Reinforce these boxes with high-quality packing tape and corner protectors to ensure they maintain integrity throughout the journey. 

If your excess baggage is between 30 to 70 kilograms, consider using a pallet or a custom-built crate that can handle the weight without buckling. It's important to ensure that the crate or pallet is built to international shipping standards, which may include ISPM 15 compliance for wood packaging. 

On the other hand, if your items exceed 70 kilograms, employ fork-movable crates or pallets. These are designed to be moved by forklift and are ideal for heavy and bulky items that require mechanical assistance for loading and unloading, ensuring safe and efficient handling.

5. Label and document correctly

Clearly label each piece of luggage with detailed contact information, destination address, and any specific handling instructions. Use high-visibility labels for fragile items and ensure that the 'this side up' stickers are visible.

You should also keep abreast of the parcel labeling requirements specific to your destination country. Prepare all necessary customs documentation, such as a detailed packing list and any required export or import forms, to facilitate smooth customs clearance. This might include obtaining pre-clearance where possible to speed up the process.

DHL Express Excess Baggage shipping solutions

When relocating internationally or sending personal items across borders, choosing the right logistics partner can make all the difference. DHL Express stands out as a premier choice for excess baggage shipping, offering tailored solutions that cater to diverse needs.

1. Global reach and flexibility

DHL Express's extensive network covers over 220 countries and territories, offering a variety of shipping options from urgent next-day deliveries to more economical solutions. Whether it’s the Express, Express Worldwide, or Express Easy services, each option is designed to cater to different urgency levels and specific needs, ensuring your luggage arrives on time, every time.

2. Customised shipping solutions

DHL provides personalised shipping solutions that include door-to-door pickup, and delivery, eliminating the need for you to transport heavy luggage. This service is particularly convenient for international relocations, streamlining the process from your doorstep to the destination.

3. Efficient customs handling

Navigating international customs can be complex. DHL simplifies this process with expert assistance in document preparation and ensuring compliance with global regulations. This proactive approach minimises delays and ensures smooth customs clearance.

4. Advanced tracking and monitoring

A woman checks the tracking of her excess baggage on a computer

Leverage the capabilities of MyDHL+, an innovative platform that offers real-time shipment tracking. This system allows you to monitor your shipment’s journey 24/7, providing peace of mind and ensuring that you are always updated about the status of your baggage.

5. Enhanced security with shipping insurance

We offer comprehensive shipping insurance options to protect your valuables during transit. This added layer of security covers your items against potential risks, providing financial protection and assurance throughout their journey.

Benefits of shipping excess baggage with DHL Express

Choosing DHL Express as your international courier for excess baggage offers significant advantages over traditional airline options, enhancing your experience with efficient and value-driven services. Whether you need to deliver overseas or require international shipping from India, DHL Express provides reliable and cost-effective solutions tailored to meet your needs.

Economic advantages over airline fees

Shipping with DHL Express can be a more economical option compared to paying exorbitant airline excess baggage fees. Airlines often charge high rates for each additional suitcase, and these can accumulate quickly, especially on long-haul flights. DHL's transparent pricing structure and variety of service options allow for more budget-friendly choices when planning your international relocation or extended trip.

Streamlined airport experience

Relocating to another country is challenging enough without the added stress of managing multiple pieces of luggage at the airport. By shipping your excess baggage ahead with DHL Express, you can bypass the need to carry and check in these items. This eliminates waiting in long queues and handling heavy bags, saving you time and reducing stress at the airport. With your luggage taken care of, you can focus on a smoother transition to your new home.

Peace of mind with enhanced security 

Security is a critical concern when relocating, especially when it involves shipping personal effects across international borders. DHL Express provides enhanced security measures for unaccompanied baggage, including advanced tracking systems that offer real-time monitoring of your shipment's progress. This level of visibility, paired with our robust packaging and handling procedures, ensures that your belongings are not only secure but are also delivered in pristine condition. You can relax, knowing that your personal items are in safe hands, allowing you to focus on settling into your new environment.

Ship luggage internationally with DHL Express

As you plan your international move, choosing the right logistics partner is not just about shipping—it's about ensuring a seamless start to your new chapter. Whether you need to ship luggage from India to the USA or send luggage to Canada from India, DHL Express offers tailored services to make these transitions as smooth as possible. Our global reach, commitment to security, and personalised shipping solutions ensure that your move is not just efficient but also less daunting.

Embrace the excitement of moving abroad without the stress of handling excess baggage. With DHL Express, you're free to focus on the life and opportunities that await in your new destination. Allow us to handle the logistics of your luggage transfer service, transforming what could be a stressful process into an exhilarating part of your adventure.