Network of 500+ movers 
150,000 moves annually 
Read article
Looking For A Mover?
Get 5 Quotes In Just 3 Easy Steps
Container Shipping Rates
Free Estimates & Experts Tips
Considering shipping a container to or from the UAE? This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding international sea freight shipping rates, helping you save both time and money on your international move.
What can you find here?
How Much Does Shipping Container Cost?
As a general indication, shipping a container from or to the UAE can vary from $4,000 to $12,000 (15,000 to 44,000 AED) depending on the distance, container sizes and any other additional services.
Full Container Load Shipping Cost
An FCL container for a household move represents an entire shipping container exclusively for one’s personal belongings. Often chosen for larger moves.
Below, you can find full container load shipping costs from the UAE to Canada, UK, USA and Singapore.
| Container Shipping Routes | Container Shipping Rates |
| UAE – Canada | $5,000 – $12,000 (18,000 – 44,000 AED) |
| UAE – UK | $4,000 – $10,000 (15,000 – 37,000 AED) |
| UAE – USA | $6,000 – $14,000 (22,000 – 51,000 AED) |
| UAE – Singapore | $3,000 – $8,000 (11,000 – 29,000 AED) |
Less than Container Load Shipping Rates
An LCL container involves consolidating your belongings with another client’s belongings in a same container. This option is ideal for smaller moves.
Since these are partial shipments, the cost would be less than FCL and depends significantly on the volume of your belongings. You might expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 (7,400 – 18,000 AED), with the understanding that additional services like packing and customs clearance will add to the cost.
20-ft and 40-ft Container Shipping Costs
For moving household items, the distinction between 20ft and 40ft container costs remains similar to commercial shipping, where a 40ft container will be more expensive due to greater volume capacity. For household moves, including additional moving services:
| Container Shipping Sizes | Container Shipping Costs |
| 20-foot container | $6,000 to $15,000 (22,000 – 55,000 AED) |
| 40-foot container | $5,000 to $12,000 (18,000 – 44,000 AED) |
These container shipping ranges are indicative and would include services such as professional packing, loading, transport, unloading, and potentially storage. Additional fees could be incurred for insurance, customs duties, and any special handling required for certain items.
Factors to Consider for Container Shipping Costs
To calculate the rate of an international move to the UAE by sea freight, several factors need to be considered:
- Size of the container: Choosing a 20-foot or a 40-foot container will vary in costs. Calculate the volume of your belongings to determine the container size.
- Type of service: LCL, FCL, door-to-door service, packing, loading are few examples of services that can make your container shipping rates vary.
- Distance and destination: The distance, the route popularity, port fees and local charges can influence your rates.
- Additional Services and insurance: Extra services like storage or special handling for fragile items can increase your costs. Protecting your belongings with insurance is surely useful, but also comes at a price.
Common Container Shipping Sizes
The 20ft and 40ft containers are the top choices for moves. Unsure about the best fit for your needs? Continue reading for insights.
What Can I Fit in a 20ft Container?
About 10 standard wooden pallets can fit in a 20ft container, while smaller boxes could easily store the content of a one-bedroom apartment.
What Can I Fit in a 40ft Container?
With double the space of a 20ft container, you can comfortably move the contents of a large three or four-bedroom house. It could also accommodate up to two cars.
Cheap Shipping to Dubai
As a popular destination for expats, many container shipping movers offer competitive rates in Dubai.
When looking for cheaper options for your international move, it’s important to consider not only the cost but also the quality of service provided.
Here are some tips to find cheap shipping options to Dubai:
1. Compare International Movers Quotes
Request quotes from multiple international moving companies to compare prices and services offered. Be sure to check for hidden fees or charges that may not be included in the initial quote.
Don’t forget to check independent reviews to get a realistic idea of a company’s service quality.
2. Consider LCL Shipping over FCL Shipping
If you’re planning a small international move, choosing the LCL shipment option could save you money. However, keep in mind that LCL shipments may take longer due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes.
3. Consider Alternative Ports
Instead of shipping directly to Dubai, consider using alternative ports in the UAE such as Sharjah or Abu Dhabi. This may result in lower container shipping port rates and ultimately reduce the overall cost.
As the global economy continues to evolve, container shipping rates may fluctuate based on market conditions. It’s always recommended to do thorough research and compare rates before making any decisions.
Why Choose Sirelo for Your International Shipping Needs?
- Transparency you can trust: At Sirelo, we’re committed to unveiling the often obscure container shipping costs. Get clear, straightforward pricing that helps you plan your move without hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Your one-stop moving platform: Say goodbye to the hassle of browsing through endless websites for pieces of moving advice. Sirelo is your comprehensive resource, offering everything you need to know about moving, from expert tips to country-specific guidelines.
- Compare and save: We believe in choice without compromise. Our platform enables you to effortlessly compare quotes from the top international shipping companies, ensuring you find the best service at the most competitive price.
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
Your international move doesn’t have to be a series of unknowns. With Sirelo, you’ll find clarity, affordability, and peace of mind. Begin your moving journey with us today. Visit our website, enter your moving details, and receive your free shipping quotes in no time!
