Deciding between a shared container (LCL) and a dedicated container (FCL) for your move to the Canary Islands primarily depends on your volume and timeline. However, both options require the exact same meticulous customs preparation.
Shared Container (LCL – Less than Container Load)
With a shared container, you share an ocean freight container with other customers. You only pay for the exact space you occupy, billed by the cubic meter.
Pros: Maximum cost efficiency for smaller volumes. If you are only shipping selected boxes, clothing, or a few individual pieces of furniture, this is by far the most economical choice.
Cons: Longer transport time, as the container must first be consolidated (collected and packed) at the warehouse before it is loaded onto the ship.
Dedicated Container (FCL – Full Container Load)
Here, you rent an entire 20-foot or 40-foot container exclusively for your personal belongings.
Pros: Faster handling, as the container goes directly to the port after loading at your residence.
Suitability: Ideal for complete relocations starting at around 10–15 cubic meters.
Vehicles: Cars or motorcycles usually travel in FCL containers. Important: Even in an exclusive container, a vehicle does not automatically benefit from the tax exemption applicable to household goods. Separate customs procedures and taxes always apply.
Volume and Cost Comparison
Shared Container: Up to approx. 10–15 cubic meters (boxes, individual furniture). Billed per cubic meter. Longer transit time due to waiting for consolidation.
Dedicated Container: From approx. 10–15 cubic meters (complete households, vehicles). Fixed price for the entire container. Shorter transit time due to direct shipping after loading.
Customs Regulations: Transport Method Does Not Change the Rules
Whether you ship two cubic meters as a shared load or a full 40-foot container: Customs in the Canary Islands makes no distinction. Every shipment requires an import customs declaration.
The Inventario: The packing list must be provided in Spanish, formatted in a structured table, and must include the mandatory statement that the goods have been in your possession for at least six months. Vague terms such as “miscellaneous” will not be accepted by customs.
Tax Exemption: The exemption from the Canarian Indirect General Tax (IGIC) depends solely on your individual circumstances and meeting the required deadlines, not on the chosen container type.
Whether a shared or dedicated container: At Phoenix Trans Internacional, we provide transparent guidance so you can choose the best option for your needs. We also ensure that your customs documentation—whether for a single pallet or a full container—is completely compliant and ready.
