Planning a move to or within Europe can be both exciting and overwhelming. Between organising paperwork, packing boxes, and coordinating travel, there’s already a lot on your plate.
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right type of removal service, and that often comes down to one question: Should I book a Part Load or a Full Load service?
In this blog, we break down the key differences between Part Load and Full Load services, explain when each option makes sense, and help you decide which is the best fit for your European move.
What Are Part Load and Full Load Services?
Before we compare, let’s define the two.
Part Load Service
A part-load service, sometimes called Groupage, means your belongings share space on a removal vehicle with items from other customers. Whether you go for removals for Ireland or a nearby country, you only pay for the space your goods occupy.
Key Features:
- Cost-effective
- Ideal for smaller shipments
- Flexible scheduling
Full Load Service
A full-load service means your goods exclusively occupy the entire vehicle. The removal team collects your belongings and transports them directly to your destination without consolidating with others.
Key Features:
- Faster transit
- Less handling of your items
- Greater control over timing
Cost: Which Is Cheaper?
When it comes to cost, Part Load services are usually more affordable than Full Load options, especially for smaller moves.
- Part Load: You share space and transport costs with other customers. If you don’t have a full van’s worth of belongings, this can significantly reduce your moving expenses.
- Full Load: You pay for the entire vehicle regardless of how much space you use. This can be more expensive but worth it in certain situations (more on that later).
In simple terms:
Part Load = Budget-friendly
Full Load = Higher cost, but more dedicated service
Transit Times
A full-load move generally offers faster transit times. Because your belongings aren’t shared with other customers, there are fewer stops and less loading/unloading along the way.
- Direct route
- Quickest delivery window
- Ideal for time-sensitive moves
Part-load shipments may take slightly longer. Since the removal vehicle stops to load and unload items for other customers, your delivery schedule can be a bit more flexible. However, if you’re getting removals for France or any further location, it can also take longer transit times.
Volume: How Much Are You Moving?
Your shipment size plays a big role in deciding between Part Load and Full Load.
Choose Part Load if:
- You’re moving a small to medium amount of belongings
- You don’t need a dedicated vehicle
- You’re happy with flexible delivery timing
Choose Full Load if:
- You have a large volume of items
- You’re moving bulky furniture or many boxes
- You want a dedicated vehicle for peace of mind
Security and Handling: What to Expect
Part Load
- Goods may be handled more frequently
- Shipping with others means more loading/unloading
- Still professional and secure, but more touches
Full Load
- Fewer hands on your belongings
- Dedicated transport from origin to destination
- Less chance of accidental damage
If you’re moving delicate or high-value items, the reduced handling of a Full Load can provide extra peace of mind.
Scheduling Flexibility
Part-load services can be more flexible on dates, as they consolidate multiple shipments. If your timing is flexible, this can be a cost-effective choice.
Full-load services, while usually faster, require you to book a specific date for the entire vehicle. It is ideal if you have a fixed schedule for removals to Spain or any other location.
Final Thoughts
Both Part Load and Full Load services have their advantages, and the best option depends on your budget, timeline, and shipment size.
At European Removal Services, we understand that every move is unique. Whether you’re relocating a few boxes or an entire household across Europe, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
