When talking about a FCL shipment, shipping companies mean Full Container Load. In this case, a single entity ships a container of goods on their own. Most commercial shipments go out this way, but individuals have to decide which shipping will work the best for them.
Read our guide on FCL shipping below and start your international shipment today!
FCL Shipment Definition
FCL describes a proportion of the container use.
The definition of FCL or “full container load” is determined by the shipper and the container selection. This means the shipper is sending their own personal container which is filled with only their goods. There are different Shipping Container Sizes, but our most common are 20 and 40 foot containers. These hold 1000 and 2000 cubic feet of cargo respectively. In this case, FCL is generally chosen when reaching those volume thresholds. Cargo in FCLs depends on what the shipper wants and can be anything from cars, furniture, boxes, pallets, etc. FCL shipments are also synonymous with sole use container, private container, and exclusive container shipments.
How Much Does FCL Shipping Cost?
Many people start with asking how much will it cost to ship via FCL. In this case, almost all FCL shipments have different costs depending on details specific to each. For example, a single car shipment to Austria in a 20 ft will be completely different than a full 40 ft of household goods to the UAE. To make sure we’re accurate, our representatives create custom quotes for each FCL shipment.
To get your price to ship via FCL, fill out our Online Quote Form and we’ll let you know if FCL is the best option for you.
Pros of an FCL Shipment
FCL transport is one of the most flexible ways of shipping.
Even though some people do not have enough goods to fill a container, they still choose to ship via FCL. The flexibility is what leads it to be the best choice for many different shipments.
More Control of Departure
A big reason to choose FCL over LCL is the ability to ship when you’re ready. The consolidation time adds some time to shipments, so FCL lets you circumvent that. For some, getting out to sea fast is the main priority and shipping this way is the best for that.
Direct Destinations
One of the many pros of an FCL shipment is the ability to choose flexible port destinations. LCL shipments only go to the busiest ports and even skip entire countries because of this. This means that FCL is the only option to ship to some of the countries in the world.
Cons of an FCL Shipment
Even though FCL is always a great option, there are still reasons you may choose an alternate method. As another option, LCL covers some of these gaps.
Overall Costs
If you are trying to keep costs as low as possible, FCL shipments are not always the most optimal as you may have less than the whole container. In these cases you’ll pay for the whole space without using it all. However, if you are shipping enough goods to fill a container, there is better value overall. Like stated earlier, you want to get as close to 1000 or 2000 cubic feet as possible to maximize your use.
Container Examinations
A risk of all container shipments is a customs examination. When shipping FCL, a customs exam will all fall on the individual shipper. With LCL this cost is split between the people in the container, which can alleviate some of the cost. In this case the individual shipper will have to pay all exam fees. These examinations are not likely, but do happen.
When talking about LCL shipments, shipping companies mean Less than Container Load. This phrase accurately represents what is going on with the type of container shipping it is. If a shipment is not large enough to fill the full container, it can be shipped using LCL with other customers in order to reach capacity.
Read our guide on LCL shipping below and start your international shipment today!
LCL Shipment Definition
More and more people are shipping via LCL every year, but at first glance many people are confused on what that term means.
LCL or less than container load is a term that describes the shipment of goods with less volume than a full container. These LCL shipments are generally below 1000 cubic feet. This is because a 20 ft container contains 1000 cubic feet of capacity, so it makes sense to send a FCL at that point. Cargo in LCLs can be anything from cars, furniture, boxes, pallets, etc. Our LCL shipping also includes shared container service, meaning you only share space with other Schumacher customers.
How Much Does LCL Shipping Cost?
Many people start with asking how much will it cost to ship via LCL. In this case, almost all LCL shipments have different costs depending on details specific to each. For example, a single car shipment to Austria will be completely different than a pallet to the UAE. To make sure we’re accurate, our representatives create custom quotes for each LCL shipment.
LCL transport is our most popular way of shipping internationally. Many people do not have enough goods for a full container, and LCL offers a way to ship more than a parcel and less than a full container. The flexibility of LCL is what leads it to be the best choice for most shipments.
Overall Costs
The largest pro for LCL shipments are the shared costs between the customers. The price splits relative to the volume shipped. This means the cost is only based on the amount you ship rather than pay for the whole container yourself. LCL shipments offer the most value for whatever good you are shipping, unless you already have enough to fill the container yourself.
LCL Door to Door Services
A service we offer that many don’t is door to door LCL shipping. Many companies only deliver all of the LCLs to the base port and you have to pick it up from there. Schumacher offers door to door service, which means we can pick up your goods wherever they are in the states and deliver them right up to your door overseas.
Cons of an LCL Shipment
Even though LCL freight offers great value, there are some reasons that you may choose an alternate method.
Consolidation Period
One con of LCL shipments is that there is an extra period to wait before the container ships. This is the consolidation period, where a container waits until it is full to depart. Some destinations take longer to consolidate than others, while some destinations we do not consolidate to at all. Our LCL service covers 80+ countries, so every popular destination is an option. If you absolutely need to ship ASAP, FCL will give you the ability to ship without others like in LCL.
Near Capacity
If your LCL shipment is already near capacity of a container, it is actually better to ship FCL. As you near 1000 cubic feet, FCL eventually becomes a better value and also gives you added flexibility. When you begin working with a Schumacher representative, they will advise on both options and you can decide which service better meets your needs.
Do you need help shipping a car overseas or truck but feel slightly overwhelmed? Our complete guide on how to ship your car overseas breaks down the process. If you already know how to ship your car overseas and want to start the process, use our Online Form today!
Except for a handful of destinations, the process is straightforward so don’t worry.
We’ve also included a few additional suggestions that we propose based on our own experiences over the past 40 years of shipping cars internationally, as well common questions and myths that have come up over the years.
If you are shipping a much larger vehicle, like an RV or motor home, visit our resource on RV shipping preparation.
So without further ado, let’s get started. Below is a quick navigation to each section.
Step 1: Do Your Research
So one of the first steps in any purchasing decision is to do the research and when shipping a vehicle overseas, research is a very important step.
When we say do your research, there are a few things that need to be considered and we’ll explain how they should be done.
Company Research
The first things that you want to do is gather a list of international auto transporters and shipping companies that you’re considering using.
Search in Google, Bing, Yahoo etc. but also use sites like BBB.org, FMC.gov, review sites, as well as forums. Don’t forget to use friends or friends of friends for references either.
Look at each company’s credentials and certifications. See whether or not the company is licensed, insured and bonded. If a company is all of the above they won’t hide it.
The licenses will vary also by the type of company you deal with. For example, freight forwarders will have FMC licensing and some may also have a special license if they operate as an NVOCC.
All domestic transporters are required to have their DOT license and if the international shipping company has an in house domestic pickup department, ask for their DOT information.
Additionally, make sure to ask each and every company, no matter how trivial it may seem, whether they are fully insured and licensed and whether they use licensed and insured carriers/third party services.
Go a step further and ask for those companies names and conduct some research on them as well.
Tip: Do this before you go out and request a quote from tons of websites. Anyone working from a computer can email you a price that looks great but it could be from an unlicensed company, for an uninsured transporter or a broker that never actually handles your automobile.
Most people searching for “how to ship your car overseas” rarely consider the entire process and all parties involved.
Cost Research
If you want to determine how much it cost to ship a vehicle overseas you will need to request an online quote. Getting a quote is also a great way to learn how to ship your car overseas as well. This is because quotes will contain info on the port of departure/arrival, overall costs, necessary documentation, etc. With our company, we create custom quotes for each shipment because we know every detail has a major effect on the cost.
Fill out our Online Quote Form and learn how to ship your car today!
Some companies will list a generic rate online. It’s important to note that the rates on websites are for ideal shipments (smallest size vehicle, to a popular destination, at their best rate). Also, rates change quite frequently with the rise of fuel costs and other surcharges so online prices are not 100% up to date. When this happens, you may try to book and encounter a price change from what you saw.
Another way to research shipping costs is by visiting a few forums and seeing what others paid for international auto shipping. The price that you’ll find will vary based on vehicle type, the company used, the shipping method used and their departure location. Make sure to look at the date of the response as some of the forums may contain responses from 5 or even 10 years ago.
Step 2: Request Quotes and Compare Them
When comparing quotes, obviously the first thing that we do is look at a dollar amount. We don’t always look to see exactly what it includes. So make sure to read through each quote you receive carefully.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car Overseas?
There’s a lot more to it than simply the ocean freight costs. Below are some key points to look for which can all have a direct impact on cost. Clarify all of these factors before booking with a company.
The type of service quoted: Are you paying for a port to port, door to port, or door to door service?
Inland transportation: This goes hand in hand with number one. Some companies quote with domestic transport included, others only include the ocean transport.
Destination Fees:Note: There will always be destination fees at every port, no matter the destination. This also relates to number one. If you are paying for door to port or port to port, this handles everything on the exporting side including US customs clearance. Unloading, customs clearance at the destination and transport from the arrival port all vary by destination. Make sure to ask about this!
Ask About Insurance
Most of the time, international auto transporters will offer this to you either through their own in house program or through a company they work with. Once again, these numbers differ by carriers and providers.
The rates can vary between 1.5% of the value to 2.5%. Make sure you understand exactly what the insurance covers and ask your company! Are you purchasing a policy for total loss or all risk? When does coverage start? Make sure you know your deductible associated with your rate as well!
Just like any type of insurance, when shipping an automobile abroad, the insurance is there for peace of mind. You will almost never need it, but if you do you’ll be glad.
Step 3: Determine Your Cost vs. Time Trade Off
This consideration is really all about your shipping preferences. Do you want the car shipped asap or are you more concerned with getting the cheapest rate?
Most people are uninformed of how long the process can take and how much it varies based on the method you choose.
Determining Shipping Method
There are different ways to ship your car that all have different benefits.
Consolidated Vehicle Shipping
The most popular method is consolidated vehicle shipping. This is where your car is shipped in a container with other vehicles bound for the same final destination port.
Not always, but it generally takes longer since the company must have other vehicles to fill the container before it can be shipped overseas.
However, you get the added protection of a containerized shipment and you can save hundreds of dollars if not more than that.
Sole Container Shipping
If you are trying to determine how to ship your car overseas quickly, then the answer is simple. Book your own 20ft container, supply the paperwork, and pay the bill.
As soon as it gets into the hands of your shipper with the documentation, the company will clear US customs and it will be loaded on the next available vessel then shipped.
The trade off here is the cost so expect to pay hundreds of dollars more than you would for some the other methods.
Roll-on Roll-off
The middle ground for time vs. cost could be considered roll on roll off. Your automobile will be driven into the hull or belly of a RORO vessel and then secured and braced. This method is slower than the one listed above but costs less.
Three things to consider with this method are that these vessels often transship, meaning they don’t go directly to your final destination. So they can end up taking longer. This isn’t always the case.
The other problem is that it lacks the added protection and security that transporting a in a container offers. So it will be open to the elements such as sea water, moisture, etc.
Lastly, using RORO, absolutely nothing is allowed inside the vehicle other than standard tire jack, spare tire, etc. So if you wanted to supply a small manifest and place items inside, that’s out of the question with this method.
Note: This does not mean that the automobiles are showered with ocean water, but cars do end up getting exposure to the elements.
Selecting a Departure Port
Now most of the time, the shipper you select to move your auto overseas will give you their best rate from their closest departure port.
They should also give you other options. So, for example let’s say you are shipping your ford truck to Australia and you live in New Jersey.
A company may have a location in New York and you may want to ship out of New York but they offer you a rate from the west coast in Los Angeles as well. At first it seems obvious that you’ll want to ship from the east coast, but there are two reasons it may be beneficial to move it to California first.
West coast to Australia is a much quicker sail time and shorter distance meaning…the ocean freight will cost less.
Most of the time there is a higher volume since Australia is a more common destination from the West coast.
*This type of scenario is more relevant to overseas consolidators but it is still useful when you’re trying to figure out how to ship your car overseas.
Step 4: Choose Your Shipper and Gather All the Paperwork
The first part is a result of the previous three steps and hopefully by this point you’ve already selected your shipper.
The next step is to gather all the paperwork that the company requires and send it to them as soon as possible to speed up the shipping process.
Most of the time the documentation is straightforward. Documents needed to ship include a:
Clear original title
Copy of bill of sale
Copy of your US Passport
*If you’re shipping via RORO, then we’ll only need copies and the originals can stay with you.
There are additional forms or documentation required by particular ports or final destinations. We won’t list every single example because that list is exhaustive but we will list a few just to give you an idea.
Shipping a car overseas from Miami requires a special notarized power of attorney, whereas that’s not required in Los Angeles. New York sometimes requires proof of payment on vehicles newer than 2010.
If you want to ship a vehicle to Australia, you absolutely must have an import approval prior to shipping. These are just a few examples but the sales reps are fully capable of answering these types of questions.
Step 5: Vehicle Inspection and Condition
When shipping any type of vehicle overseas, always do your own vehicle inspection report and take pictures. We recommend first servicing your vehicle before handing it over as well as getting it washed. Please make sure brakes work properly for maximum safety during the loading and unloading of your car.
This way, you know for sure the running condition of the vehicle and it will be much easier to spot any exterior dings or damage that your exterior already has to include in your report.
Most overseas auto transporters will also do this as soon as the vehicle arrivals at their warehouse or office but two inspection reports are better than one.
Additional Advice on How to Ship a Car Overseas
If your company does not have it’s own warehouse or office overseas at your final destination city they’ll most likely be working with their own partners or agents.
Make sure to ask for their agent’s information and contact them well ahead of time. They’ll be able to answer more destination oriented questions.
In the end, there are numerous details and things that may come up during this process but being more informed about it will help you out in the end.
If you are ready to start shipping, fill out our Online Quote Form or call in at:
The annual Chicago Auto Show is the nation’s largest and best-attended auto show. The 2019 Chicago Auto Show will take place from February 9-18, 2019, at McCormick Place in downtown Chicago, Illinois.
First staged in 1901, the 2019 event will be the 111th Chicago Auto Show. It is owned and produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association.
What You’ll See At the Chicago Auto Show
The show takes up more than 1 million square feet of McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America. Exhibits will feature nearly 1,000 of the newest cars, trucks and SUVs. Vehicles on display include production cars, debut models and concept cars.
If you’re unable to attend but still want to follow along, check out the hashtag #CAS19 on social media to see live updates from attendees and exhibitioners. Get a glimpse of last year’s concept cars here:
Chicago Auto Show Hours & Dates
The show takes place in February, giving Chicagoans a great excuse to get out of the blustery cold coming off Lake Michigan. The 2019 Chicago Auto Show dates are Saturday, Friday 9 to Monday, February 18 (Presidents’ Day).
The Chicago Auto Show hours of admission are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., every day, however the show will close at 8 p.m. on its final day in honor of Presidents’ Day.
Chicago Auto Show Tickets & Parking
Tickets for the Chicago Auto Show are available online or at ticket booths within McCormick Place. Adult tickets are $13, and tickets for children (7-12) and senior (62+) are $7.
Chicago Auto Show discount tickets are available in a few ways:
Women’s Day: On Tuesday, February 12, women are admitted for $7.
Food Drive: Attendees who donate three canned foods will receive $5 off adult admission for February 13-15. All food collected will benefit A Safe Haven Foundation.
Chicago Auto Show parking is available on-site in the three main McCormick Place parking lots: A, B & C. Parking in Lots A & C is $23, and parking in Lot B is $15. After 6 p.m. during the Chicago Auto Show, the parking rate is $10.
More information for tickets, parking and the show in general can be found on the show’s official website.
Things To Do in Chicago in The Winter
While you’re in town, take advantage of the other attractions in Chicago. Don’t let the chilly February weather deter you from touring around; there are plenty of things to do in Chicago in the winter:
Museum Campus: Spend the day wandering around world-class museums like the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium or Adler Planetarium.
Millennium Park: Skate at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, or take a mirror selfie at Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”).
The Magnificent Mile: Shop along Michigan Avenue, Chicago’s premier commercial district. Or just window shop, if that’s what your wallet is telling you.
Broadway in Chicago: Chicago is a main stop in the Midwest for national productions of Broadway musicals. Touring shows in town at the time will be box-office hits “Hamilton” and “Dear Evan Hansen.”
Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory: Discover a jungle in the middle of the concrete jungle. Admission to the zoo and conservatory is free, but you’ll still see incredibly flora and fauna.
Shipping Your Car with Schumacher Cargo Logistics
If the Chicago Auto Show inspires you to take your vehicle on the road, we’ve got you covered. Schumacher Cargo Logistics has 40 years of experience in international car shipping. Get a free shipping quote from our moving specialists and call us toll-free at 800-599-0190 now to get started!
Ah, retirement. The golden age of new opportunities and looking back on a life full of hard work. You have the time now to pick up new hobbies or take on the adventure of a lifetime. And while many retirees may feel inclined to stay close to home and loved ones, this is the perfect chance to settle down someplace new and discover a whole new world.
Every January for the past 29 years, International Living updates its list of the top 10 countries for retirees to move to every year. These countries receive an average score based on the International Living Annual Global Retirement Index. This index considers the overall quality of life for expat retirees, according to a number of metrics.
So if you’re soon approaching retirement and planning this next chapter, already retired and looking for a change of pace, or even years away and simply daydreaming, consider an international retirement! There is no better time than now to pack your bags and jetset for a new life across the world in the best international retirement locations.
Read below for our coverage of the top 10 places to retire overseas!
The 10 Best Places to Retire Abroad in 2019
10. Spain
This western European country is a prime beach destination for the rest of the continent. And since it’s a first world country, expats will find a comfortable standard of living and many of the familiar amenities of home. Traveling around the country and to other parts of Europe is easily done via train.
The country’s warm provides long farming seasons, meaning there is plenty of fresh and inexpensive produce at the market. The southern region, close to the Mediterranean Sea, is hot and dry, while further north toward the Pyrenees Mountains is mild and cool.
Spain boasts one of the lowest costs of living in western Europe. A couple could comfortably live on $2,500 a month in many parts of the country. Additionally, the World Healthcare Organization ranks Spain as having one of the best healthcare systems in the world.
9. Thailand
Nestled in southeast Asian, Thailand is a tropical paradise. The tropical and humid climate means there is no threat of a cold winter; perfect for snowbirds.
The cost of living is considerably low; a modern studio apartment rents for $400 a month. Utilities and groceries are also low. Travel within the country is also inexpensive, and it’s easy to hop on a plane to explore the rest of southeast Asia.
For those who are really looking for an all-immersive experience, Thailand boasts a rich culture that’s completely its own. The country has never been colonized by western or European countries. However, there are plenty of bustling expat communities for you to make plans with new friends.
8. Peru
This mountainous country of ancient Incan ruins and llamas has recently become a favored retirement location. There is a large number of expats living throughout the country. In Lima, the country’s capital, you can find incredible restaurants, art museums, galleries and theaters. The international airport is constantly seeing direct flights to and from neighboring South American countries.
The weather is mild with sunshine for 300 days out of the year. This temperate climate means that fresh and local produce is always available at a low cost. The overall cost of living stays low, too. A couple can easily live on a budget of less than $2,000 a month in most regions.
Since there are not many English-speakers, anyone moving here should learn Spanish to fit in and get around. However, the community is still friendly and welcoming of expats.
7. Portugal
Portugal is known for its friendly community. The people are happy to share their culture with others, and they make an effort to welcome visitors and expats. English is widely spoken in the more populous urban areas of Porto and Lisbon, so English-speakers can easily get around.
Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe, just after Bulgaria. You can modestly live here on a comfortable budget of $2,500 a month. Additionally, the 2018 Global Peace Index rated Portugal as the fourth-safest country in the world.
6. Colombia
If you can’t start your day without a cup of coffee, Colombia might be the perfect place for you. The country is known for its incredible coffee industry, and the Coffee Triangle offers beautiful and lush mountain scenery. If the mountains aren’t calling your name, don’t worry. You can head down to the Caribbean for tropical and hot beaches. Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, so there is no shortage of incredible landscapes.
Retired expats can easily attain a retirement visa that’s good for three years. You’ll also have easy access to affordable yet high quality healthcare. The World Health Organization ranks Colombia’s health system at #22 (for perspective, the United States is at #37 and Canada is at #30).
5. Malaysia
Malaysia is a popular choice for those who love an outdoor lifestyle. More than 878 islands make up the country’s geography, and there are amazing hiking trails through the beaches and rainforests. Discovering the rest of Asia is easy through direct and inexpensive flights right out of the Penang International Airport.
Don’t worry if you don’t speak Malay; English is the unofficial first language. Malaysian law is based on the British system, and all road signs are in both English and Malay.
A couple can comfortably live on the island of Penang for $1,800 a month, including rent. And don’t forget the affordable healthcare. Medical services can be done day-of and on a low budget, so it’s an especially attractive feature for expats.
4. Ecuador
There is something for everyone in Ecuador. Choose to live along the tropical coast or up in the temperate Andes mountains. Get caught in the bustle of the big-city life and all of its conveniences or choose to watch the world go by in quaint villages. You’ll find a fascinating mix of indigenous, Inca and Spanish cultures, great for those always trying something new. There are plenty of expat communities that take advantage of the local laidback lifestyle, and you’ll want to jump right in.
Another benefit is the affordability. It’s entirely possible to buy a beach home for less than $150,000. Utilities, household help, and personal services cost much less here. The warm climate allows for year-round growing seasons, so food is fresh and inexpensive at local markets.
3. Mexico
Mexico’s proximity to the United States has made it a popular vacation destination for generations, so why not choose to move here? Expats will find incredibly affordable healthcare and a low cost of living. Depending on the location, a couple can comfortably live on $1,500 to $3,000 a month, including rent and healthcare. After you gain residency, you can sign up for a national healthcare plan. Residents over the age of 60 can also acquire a national senior discount card.
Geographically, Mexico is a huge country. The vast landscape includes farmland, beaches, mountains, oceans and lakes. You can choose to live in the warm beach towns or up in the spring-like Colonial Highlands. Wherever you go, you’re sure to find a community that is welcoming to expats.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a healthy history of a peaceful culture and stable democracy. The country abolished its army in 1948 and dedicated that budget to its education and healthcare instead. The country has plenty of options for healthcare services, and the socialized medicine program is available once you acquire residency.
For active retirees who love the outdoors, there is no shortage of activities to get you outside. The tropical rainforests, pristine beaches and lush mountains supply the perfect backdrop for fishing, golfing, horseback riding, hiking, yoga and diving.
Costa Ricans, locally known as Ticos, are warm and welcoming to expats. There are plenty of expat communities as well to help you fit in.
1. Panama
One definite perk to Panama is its location. It’s warm and tropical near the Caribbean, but it’s also outside of the hurricane belt. It’s located close enough to the United States that a visit home is easy; Miami is only a 3-hour plane ride away. The U.S. dollar is the country’s currency, so no need to figure out a new exchange rate.
The capital, Panama City, is Central America’s only first world city. This bustling metropolis also boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Outside of the city, you’ll find amazing mountains and beaches.
Retirees in Panama have access to the country’s Pensionado Program. It’s considered one of the best retiree programs in the world and is open to everyone. Program participants have access to incredible discounts on everything from medical expenses to entertainment and travel.
How International Living’s Global Retirement Index Works
The Retirement Index was developed in 1990 and weighs the financial, health, lifestyle and governance pros and cons of each country. Such metrics include Cost of Living, Fitting In, Healthcare, Climate and Development. Every factor is carefully considered to determine the best retirement destinations abroad.
These retirement havens get scores based off of International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index. These scores are then averaged and the highest scores make the list for the new year. Additionally, the International Living team is spread throughout 5 continents and is able to provide a personal take on what life is like for an expat in these countries. With their help, International Living annually publishes who’s on top of the Global Retirement Index list.
Retire Overseas with Schumacher Cargo Logistics
Ready to take on the next chapter in life in a new and foreign land? Our Moving Specialists are here to tell you how to move abroad. With 40 years of internationally shipping vehicles and household goods, our team ensures a safe and efficient move. Whether you’re moving just across the Atlantic to Spain or around the world to Malaysia, you can get your free shipping quote and call us toll-free at 1-800-599-0190 today.
