You’re not just moving furniture and boxes; you’re moving your entire life across an ocean. Entrusting your most cherished belongings to someone else for a journey of thousands of miles requires a huge amount of confidence. The right partner can provide the peace of mind you need, while the wrong one can turn an exciting adventure into a stressful ordeal. Finding a reputable international moving company is about more than just price—it’s about finding a team with the experience and reliability to handle your move with care. We’ll walk you through how to vet potential movers, understand insurance options, and ensure your possessions are protected every step of the way.
Key Takeaways
- Hire a Logistics Partner, Not Just a Mover: An international moving company manages the entire complex process for you, from expert packing and customs paperwork to coordinating door-to-door shipping, which lets you focus on your new life abroad.
- Proactive Planning Prevents Problems: Start researching movers, comparing detailed quotes, and decluttering your home at least three to six months in advance. Proper preparation is the single best way to ensure a smooth, on-budget move.
- Protect Your Belongings and Your Budget: Always opt for full replacement value insurance, as basic coverage is insufficient for international transit. Understanding your destination’s customs rules and potential taxes is also essential for avoiding costly delays and surprise fees.
What Can an International Mover Do for You?
Moving to another country is a massive project with a dizzying number of moving parts. A professional international mover does far more than just transport your boxes; they act as your dedicated logistics partner, managing the entire complex process from start to finish. Think of them as the project manager for your relocation. Their expertise allows you to focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter abroad, rather than getting bogged down by shipping regulations and customs paperwork. A full-service international moving company coordinates everything from professional packing at your current home to final delivery at your destination, ensuring a smoother transition for you and your family.
Handle Door-to-Door Logistics
When you see the term “door-to-door service,” it means the moving company manages every single step of the journey. Your involvement is simplified to preparing your items and meeting them at your new home. The movers will handle the initial pickup, transportation to the port or airport, the main ocean or air freight journey, customs clearance, and the final delivery to your new address. This comprehensive approach provides incredible peace of mind. Instead of juggling multiple vendors for trucking, shipping, and delivery, you have one point of contact overseeing the entire chain of events. It’s the most seamless way to get your belongings from your old front door to your new one, no matter how many miles are in between.
Pack and Crate Your Belongings
Packing for an international move is a science. Your belongings will be in transit for weeks or even months, handled multiple times, and subjected to the motion of a ship or plane. Professional movers are trained in export packing techniques designed to withstand these conditions. They use high-quality, durable materials and know exactly how to wrap and secure everything from your dishes to your furniture. For especially fragile, valuable, or oddly shaped items like artwork, pianos, or antiques, they can build custom wooden crates for maximum protection. Proper packing services are one of the best investments you can make to ensure your possessions arrive in the same condition they left.
Manage Shipping and Transportation
At the heart of any international move is the physical transportation of your goods across the globe. Your moving company will determine the best shipping method for your timeline and budget, whether that’s by sea or by air. They coordinate all the logistics, from booking space on a container ship to arranging air freight for faster delivery. They manage the entire transportation chain, ensuring your shipment is tracked and handled correctly at every stage. This includes the ground transportation needed to get your items from your home to the port and from the destination port to your new residence. A trusted mover takes the guesswork out of a very complicated process, giving you a clear plan for how and when your items will travel.
Assist with Customs Clearance
Navigating customs is often the most daunting part of moving abroad. Every country has its own set of rules, required documents, and lists of restricted or prohibited items. A seasoned international mover is an expert in this area. They will help you prepare all the necessary paperwork, including a detailed inventory of your goods, valuation forms, and the official customs declaration. Their guidance is crucial for avoiding common mistakes that can lead to significant delays, inspections, or even fines. By handling the customs brokerage for you, they ensure your shipment complies with all regulations, making its entry into your new country as smooth as possible.
Provide Secure Storage
It’s rare for an international move to line up perfectly. You might need to leave your old home before your new one is ready, or you may be moving into a smaller space temporarily. This is where professional storage solutions become essential. Most international movers offer secure moving and storage options at both the origin and destination countries. Whether you need to store your belongings for a few weeks while you finalize housing or require a long-term solution for items you aren’t taking with you right away, they can accommodate your needs. These facilities are typically climate-controlled and monitored, so you can rest assured your possessions are safe until you’re ready for them.
How to Choose the Right International Mover
Picking the right international moving company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your move abroad. This isn’t just about getting your boxes from point A to point B; it’s about trusting a team with your most cherished belongings as they cross oceans and continents. The right partner will handle the complex logistics, navigate customs, and provide peace of mind, while the wrong one can turn an exciting new chapter into a stressful ordeal.
Your mover will be your guide through a maze of paperwork, shipping regulations, and transportation methods. A great company does more than just lift heavy things—they offer expertise and support. They should be able to answer your questions clearly, provide a transparent quote, and have a proven track record of successful moves. When you’re vetting potential movers, you’re looking for a combination of experience, reliability, and value. Taking the time to do your research now will save you from headaches, hidden costs, and heartache later. Think of this as hiring the most critical member of your relocation team.
Check Their Experience and Reputation
When it comes to international moving, experience is not just a buzzword—it’s everything. A company that has been managing overseas relocations for years will be prepared for the unique challenges that can arise, from port delays to tricky customs inspections. Look for movers with a long and established history. A company with a solid track record is better equipped to handle the complexities of an international move, ensuring a smoother process for you. Check their website to learn about our history and how long they’ve been in business. A reputable mover will be proud of their story and transparent about their experience in the industry.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Before you sign any contracts, make sure the moving company has the proper credentials to operate internationally. This is a non-negotiable step that protects you and your belongings. For moves originating in the U.S., your mover should be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) as an Ocean Freight Forwarder or a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC). This ensures they meet federal standards for shipping goods overseas. Proper licensing and insurance confirm the company adheres to legal regulations. Also, ask about their insurance options. You’ll want to understand what coverage is included and what additional protection you might need for your international moving journey.
Compare Quotes and Services
It’s wise to get quotes from at least three different international movers, but don’t let price be your only guide. The cheapest option is rarely the best value. A lowball offer might mean subpar service or, worse, hidden fees that pop up later. When you receive a quote, review it carefully. It should provide a detailed breakdown of all costs, including packing, freight, port fees, customs clearance, and final delivery. One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming all services are included. Ask questions to understand exactly what you’re paying for and get everything in writing before you contact us to book your move.
Read Customer Reviews (and Watch for Red Flags)
Customer reviews offer invaluable, real-world insight into a company’s reliability and service quality. Look beyond the star rating and read what past clients have to say on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pay attention to patterns in the feedback. A single negative review might be an outlier, but consistent complaints about damaged items, poor communication, or surprise charges are major red flags. A trustworthy company will have a collection of positive testimonials and will be responsive to customer feedback, both good and bad. Trust your gut—if a company seems unprofessional or evasive, it’s best to walk away.
Understanding the Cost of an International Move
Moving to another country is a huge step, and it’s natural to wonder about the price tag. While an international move is a significant investment, the final cost isn’t a mystery. It comes down to a few key factors, and understanding them will help you budget effectively and avoid surprises. Think of it less as a single price and more as a sum of specific services and logistics tailored to your unique move. By knowing what goes into the total, you can make informed decisions that fit your budget without sacrificing a smooth transition.
What Influences the Final Price?
The two biggest factors that determine the cost of your international move are the volume of your belongings and the distance they need to travel. Simply put, the more stuff you have and the farther it’s going, the higher the price will be. Your shipping method also plays a major role—air freight is faster but significantly more expensive than ocean freight. Other variables include the specific services you need, such as professional packing services, temporary storage, and moving insurance. The time of year can also affect pricing, with peak moving seasons often commanding higher rates.
Typical Costs by Destination
While every move is different, it helps to have a general idea of what to expect. Moving a two-bedroom apartment from the U.S. to Europe could range from $3,500 to $17,000. A similar move to Asia or Australia might fall between $4,000 and $18,000. These are wide ranges because they account for differences in volume, distance, and chosen services. Remember, these figures are just ballpark estimates. The only way to know your actual cost is to get a detailed quote based on your specific inventory and destination.
Watch Out for Hidden Fees
One of the most common pitfalls when moving abroad is getting a quote that seems too good to be true, only to be hit with unexpected charges later. Some companies might not include essential services in their initial estimate. Always ask for an itemized quote that clearly lists what is and isn’t included. Be sure to clarify costs for customs clearance, port fees, duties, and taxes, as these can add up. A trustworthy mover will be transparent about all potential charges from the start, ensuring you have a complete picture of the investment.
Smart Ways to Save Money
The best way to lower the cost of your international move is to reduce the volume of goods you’re shipping. Before you start packing, take a serious look at your belongings and declutter anything you don’t truly need. Selling, donating, or discarding items can significantly cut down on shipping costs. While it might seem cheaper to handle everything yourself, hiring professional movers often prevents costly mistakes, like damaged goods or customs delays. A professional team can pack your items efficiently to maximize space and ensure they arrive safely, saving you money and stress in the long run.
How Your Belongings Will Travel
Once you’ve chosen a mover and packed your life into boxes, the next big question is how everything will get from Point A to Point B. For an international move, your belongings will likely travel by sea or by air—or a combination of both. The right choice for you depends on your budget, your timeline, and how much you’re moving. Understanding the pros and cons of each method will help you work with your moving company to create a plan that fits your specific needs.
Shipping by Sea: Ocean Freight
Shipping your items by sea is the most common and budget-friendly way to handle an international move. If you’re moving the contents of an entire home, this is almost certainly the route you’ll take. Your belongings are loaded into large, secure containers and placed on a cargo ship. While it’s the most economical option, it’s also the slowest. A shipment can take several weeks or even months to arrive, so you’ll need to plan well in advance. The total cost is based on the volume of your goods, the distance of the journey, and the specific services you select. It’s the perfect choice if you have time to spare and want to keep costs down.
Shipping by Air: Air Freight
If you need certain items to arrive quickly, air freight is your best bet. Think of it as the express shipping of the moving world. This method is significantly faster than ocean freight, often taking days instead of weeks. However, that speed comes at a much higher price. Because of the cost, shipping an entire household by air is rare. Instead, air freight is ideal for smaller, essential shipments. You might send a few boxes with work equipment, important documents, and clothes to get you through the first couple of weeks in your new country. Our professional packing services can ensure these priority items are properly secured for the flight.
Combining Shipping Methods
You don’t have to choose just one option. A popular and practical strategy is to combine both sea and air freight. You can ship the bulk of your belongings—like furniture, kitchenware, and less-urgent items—via ocean freight to save money. At the same time, you can send a smaller, essential shipment by air so it’s waiting for you when you arrive. This hybrid approach gives you the cost savings of sea freight with the convenience of air freight. It’s a smart way to manage your budget without living out of a suitcase for months. This also pairs well with moving and storage solutions if your shipments arrive at different times.
Your Pre-Move Preparation Checklist
An international move has a lot of moving parts, but a solid plan can make all the difference. Breaking down your preparation into manageable steps will keep you organized and in control from start to finish. Think of this as your roadmap to a successful move abroad. By tackling these key tasks early, you set yourself up for a much smoother transition, giving you more time to get excited about your new home.
Create a Moving Timeline
When it comes to moving abroad, the old saying “the early bird gets the worm” couldn’t be more true. International moves rely on fixed shipping schedules, so waiting too long to contact a mover is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Start planning at least three to six months before your desired moving date. Your first step should be to research and request quotes from reputable international moving companies. Once you’ve chosen a mover, you can work backward from your move date to set deadlines for decluttering, packing, and organizing your documents. A detailed moving checklist will be your best friend throughout this process.
Declutter and Take Inventory
The less you have to move, the more you’ll save on shipping costs. Before you pack a single box, go through your home and decide what you really need to bring. This is the perfect time to sell, donate, or discard items that won’t serve you in your new life. As you declutter, create a detailed inventory list of everything you plan to ship. This list is essential for getting accurate moving quotes and will be required for customs and insurance purposes. Being thorough now will save you headaches and money later on.
Get Your Important Documents in Order
Gathering your paperwork is one of the most critical steps in preparing for an international move. You’ll need passports, visas, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and any other essential personal records. Keep these documents in a secure and easily accessible place—never pack them in your shipping container. Most countries also require a detailed customs declaration form that lists the items you’re bringing, their value, and their intended use. Having your inventory list ready will make filling out this paperwork much easier. It’s always a good idea to have both physical and digital copies of everything.
Pack Like a Pro for International Shipping
Your belongings have a long journey ahead, so proper packing is non-negotiable. While DIY packing can save money on a local move, international shipping requires extra care. Professional movers have the expertise to pack items securely to minimize the risk of damage during transit. If you have fragile or high-value items, consider using professional packing services for peace of mind. Be sure to discuss insurance options with your moving company. Understanding your coverage before your items are shipped is crucial in the unlikely event that something is lost or damaged.
Dealing with Customs and Paperwork
Crossing borders with your entire life in tow involves a bit of red tape. Customs paperwork can feel like the most intimidating part of an international move, but it’s completely manageable when you know what to expect. The key is to be organized, thorough, and to start the process early. Think of it as your new country’s way of saying hello and checking what you’re bringing with you. Getting your documents in order and understanding the rules will make your transition much smoother and help you avoid any costly or stressful surprises at the border.
Your Essential Documents Checklist
First things first, let’s get your papers in order. You’ll need a folder—digital or physical—for all your essential documents. This includes passports, visas, birth certificates, and marriage certificates for everyone in your family. Most importantly for your belongings, you’ll need to complete a detailed customs declaration. This is basically an itemized list of everything you’re moving, along with its estimated value. Being accurate and detailed here is crucial for a smooth clearance process. Keep these documents somewhere safe but accessible, as you or your moving company will need to present them to customs officials.
Know What You Can (and Can’t) Bring
Every country has its own set of rules about what you can and cannot bring across its borders. Items that are commonly restricted or prohibited include certain foods, plants, alcohol, and even some electronics. For example, you might not be able to bring your favorite houseplant or that collection of rare cheeses. Before you start packing, take some time to research the customs regulations for your destination country. This simple step can save you from having to leave precious items behind or facing fines when your shipment arrives. An early check gives you plenty of time to make decisions about what to pack, sell, or give away.
Understanding Duties and Taxes
When you import your personal belongings into a new country, you may have to pay customs duties and taxes. These fees are typically calculated based on the value of your items and the specific regulations of your destination. It’s a common part of the process, so it’s wise to include these potential costs in your moving budget. The rules can be complex and vary widely from one country to another. Your international moving partner can be a great resource here, helping you understand what to expect and providing an estimate of the potential fees so you can plan accordingly.
How a Customs Broker Can Help
This is where hiring an experienced international mover really pays off. Most reputable companies, including us, work with or act as customs brokers to handle this entire process for you. A customs broker is an expert who manages all the paperwork, communicates with customs officials, and ensures your shipment meets all legal requirements. They make sure your declaration is filled out correctly and that all duties and taxes are paid properly. Using a professional for your international move means you have an expert on your side, turning a potentially complex process into a simple, hands-off experience.
Protecting Your Move with Insurance
Moving your life across the globe is a huge undertaking, and the last thing you want to worry about is something happening to your belongings along the way. While reputable movers handle your items with care, the long journey by sea or air comes with inherent risks. This is where moving insurance, also known as valuation coverage, comes in. It’s not just an add-on; it’s essential protection that gives you peace of mind, ensuring you’re covered if the unexpected happens. Understanding your options is the first step to making a smart choice for your move.
Basic vs. Full Replacement Coverage
When you get a quote from a mover, it will likely include basic liability coverage. It’s important to know that this is the most minimal protection available. This coverage is based on the weight of an item, not its actual value—typically around 60 cents per pound. So, if your 10-pound, $1,500 laptop gets damaged, you’d only be reimbursed about $6. For this reason, basic coverage is rarely sufficient for an international move.
Full Replacement Value coverage is a much more comprehensive option. With this plan, if an item is lost or damaged, your moving company will either repair it, replace it with a similar item, or offer you a cash settlement for its current market value. While it costs more upfront, it provides genuine protection for your belongings. It’s also worth noting that movers offer contractual liability, which is different from a formal insurance policy.
When to Consider Third-Party Insurance
In many cases, purchasing a separate policy from a third-party insurance provider is a wise decision. This is especially true if you’re moving high-value possessions like artwork, antiques, or expensive electronics. A third-party policy can offer more extensive coverage than a mover’s plan, protecting your items against a wider range of potential risks, including events that might happen while your goods are in storage.
If you have items that are irreplaceable or would be very costly to replace, an independent insurance policy offers an extra layer of security. Think of it as an investment in your peace of mind. When discussing your move, be sure to ask about options for specialty moves to ensure your most precious items get the attention and protection they need.
How to File a Claim if Something Goes Wrong
Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but knowing how to file a claim is crucial. The process starts before you even pack a single box. Create a detailed inventory of your belongings, taking photos or videos of valuable items to document their condition. A thorough Moving Checklist can help you stay organized.
When your shipment arrives, inspect everything carefully for any signs of external damage before signing the delivery receipt. If you see any issues, note them on the paperwork. Once you start unpacking, if you find something is damaged, take photos immediately and contact your moving company or insurance provider to initiate the claims process. Be sure to act quickly, as there’s usually a time limit for filing.
Moving Specialty and High-Value Items
Some of your most treasured possessions won’t fit neatly into a standard moving box. Whether it’s a grand piano that’s been in your family for generations, a delicate piece of antique furniture, or a valuable art collection, these items require a special touch. Moving high-value and specialty items internationally adds another layer of complexity, from custom crating to navigating specific import regulations.
This is where a mover’s experience truly matters. You need a team that doesn’t just see a large object, but understands its value and the precise techniques needed to protect it. A company with a dedicated specialty moves service will have the right equipment, materials, and training to handle these unique challenges. They can create a custom plan to ensure your most important belongings arrive at your new home in the exact condition they left. From building custom crates to coordinating specialized transport, the right partner makes all the difference.
Safely Transporting Artwork and Antiques
Moving artwork and antiques requires a delicate balance of strength and care. These items are often irreplaceable, carrying significant sentimental and financial value. The key to their safe transport lies in meticulous preparation and handling. Professional movers who specialize in these items will use custom-built wooden crates, acid-free paper, and padding designed to absorb shock and prevent scratches.
For particularly sensitive pieces, climate-controlled transportation might be necessary to protect them from fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Before the move, discuss each valuable piece with your moving coordinator. This allows them to plan for the specific packing services and equipment needed, ensuring your heirlooms and investments are properly protected every step of the way.
Shipping Vehicles and Boats
Taking your car, motorcycle, or boat with you on an international move is entirely possible with the right planning. The process involves more than just driving it onto a ship. You’ll need to work with your moving company to handle logistics like customs paperwork, import regulations, and potential duties or taxes in your destination country. These costs should be factored into your overall moving budget from the start.
Your mover can explain the different shipping options, such as roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) service, where your vehicle is driven onto the vessel, or placing it inside a secure shipping container. Each method has its own benefits and cost structure. An experienced international moving team will guide you through the requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant transport process.
Handling Fragile Electronics
From your flat-screen TV to your high-end sound system, modern electronics are both valuable and incredibly fragile. While using the original boxes is always the best option, professional movers have the next best thing: industry-grade packing materials designed specifically for these items. They use specialized cartons, anti-static bubble wrap, and secure padding to protect sensitive screens and components from damage during transit.
Before packing, be sure to back up any important data from computers and disconnect all cables, keeping them organized and labeled. It’s also a good idea to review your insurance options. Talk to your moving company about full replacement value coverage for your electronics to give yourself complete peace of mind. For more preparation ideas, check out some expert moving tips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Abroad
Moving to a new country is an incredible adventure, but the logistics can feel overwhelming. An international move has more moving parts than a local one, from cross-border shipping to customs paperwork. A few common missteps can easily lead to unexpected costs, frustrating delays, and a lot of stress. The good news is that you can sidestep these issues with a bit of foresight. Knowing what to watch out for is the first step toward a smooth and successful relocation. Let’s walk through some of the most frequent mistakes people make when moving abroad so you can be prepared.
Assuming a Quote is All-Inclusive
It’s easy to see a price and assume it covers everything, but with international moves, that’s rarely the case. One of the biggest mistakes is not clarifying exactly what a quote includes. Some quotes might only cover port-to-port shipping, leaving you to handle transportation to and from the ports, customs clearance, and final delivery. Before you commit, ask detailed questions. Does the price include packing services, door-to-door delivery, insurance, and customs duties? Get a detailed, itemized quote in writing so you can accurately compare offers and avoid surprise fees later on. A transparent mover will be happy to break down all the potential costs for you.
Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book
Procrastination can be costly when it comes to booking an international move. Unlike a local move where you might find a truck with a week’s notice, international shipping operates on strict schedules for sea and air freight. Waiting too long to book can mean limited availability, which often translates to higher prices or having to settle for a less-than-ideal shipping date. To give yourself plenty of time to research movers, get quotes, and secure a spot, you should start the process at least three to four months before your intended move. Using a detailed moving checklist can help you stay on track and manage your timeline effectively.
Skipping the Research Phase
While it’s tempting to go with the first company you find, not all international movers are created equal. A common misconception is that every company offers the same level of service and expertise, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Take the time to research potential movers thoroughly. Look into their history, verify their licenses and insurance, and check their experience with moves to your specific destination country. Reading testimonials and reviews can also provide valuable insight into their reliability and customer service. Choosing a company with a long, proven track record, like our team at Starving Students, gives you peace of mind that your belongings are in capable hands.
Forgetting About Customs Rules
Every country has its own unique set of customs regulations, and overlooking them can bring your move to a screeching halt. Many people don’t realize that they need to declare all their household goods and that certain items may be restricted, prohibited, or subject to heavy taxes. Trying to import a forbidden item, even accidentally, can lead to fines, delays, or confiscation. This is where an experienced international moving company becomes your most valuable asset. A knowledgeable team can help you understand the specific rules for your destination, prepare the necessary documentation, and ensure your shipment clears customs without any issues.
Preparing for Common Moving Challenges
Even the most perfectly planned international move can hit a few bumps. The key isn’t to expect a flawless journey, but to be prepared for potential challenges. From shipping delays to culture shock, knowing what might come up allows you to face it with confidence. A great moving partner will help you anticipate many of these issues, but your own mental and logistical preparation is just as important. Think of it as building a little flexibility into your plan. This way, when a small problem arises, it feels like a manageable task rather than a full-blown crisis. By staying informed and giving yourself some grace, you can handle whatever the move throws your way.
Handling Delays and Logistical Hurdles
Logistical hurdles are a common part of any international move. Your shipment is crossing oceans and borders, which means it can be subject to weather, port congestion, or customs inspections. The best way to prepare is to build a buffer into your timeline. Don’t schedule your arrival for Monday and expect your belongings to be there Tuesday. Communicate closely with your moving coordinator for updates. Remember that the main cost variables for your move are the distance and the volume of your shipment. Finalizing these details early can prevent last-minute logistical scrambles. Working with an experienced international moving team is your best defense against these kinds of surprises.
Overcoming Communication and Cultural Gaps
When you move to a new country, you’re not just moving your furniture—you’re stepping into a new culture with its own set of rules. This is especially true when it comes to customs. Most countries require you to submit a detailed customs declaration listing the items you’re bringing, their value, and their intended use. This can be a complex process, and understanding the specific requirements of your destination is crucial to avoid costly delays or fines. An experienced mover can guide you through the paperwork, but it’s also smart to do your own research on your new home’s official government websites to learn about any restricted items or cultural etiquette.
Managing the Emotional Side of Moving
Let’s be honest: moving abroad is a huge emotional undertaking. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement, anxiety, sadness, and stress all at once. Acknowledging the emotional side of moving is the first step in preparing for the transition. Give yourself permission to feel all the feelings. Before you go, make a plan to stay connected with loved ones back home. Once you arrive, be patient with yourself as you adjust. Finding local community groups or expat forums online can help you build a new support system. Remember that culture shock is real, but it’s also temporary. Focus on the incredible new experiences ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I contact a moving company for an international move? You should start reaching out to movers at least three to six months before you plan to leave. International shipping relies on strict schedules for cargo ships and planes, and booking early ensures you get the dates you want at a better price. This timeframe also gives you plenty of breathing room to compare quotes, declutter your home, and get all your paperwork in order without feeling rushed.
Is it cheaper to ship my furniture or just buy new things when I get there? This is a great question, and the answer really depends on your situation. The cost of your move is heavily influenced by the volume of your shipment, so leaving large furniture pieces behind is the single biggest way to lower your quote. Consider the financial and sentimental value of your items. If you have high-quality or heirloom furniture, shipping it is likely worthwhile. If your furniture is from IKEA, it might be more cost-effective to sell it and buy new pieces upon arrival.
Can I pack my own boxes to save money? While it’s possible to pack your own boxes, it’s often not recommended for an international move. Your belongings will be handled multiple times and travel a long distance, so they need to be packed with specific techniques and materials to prevent damage. Furthermore, many insurance policies won’t cover damage to items that weren’t packed by the professionals. Investing in professional packing services gives you peace of mind that your things are properly protected for the journey.
What’s the real difference between shipping by sea and by air? The main difference comes down to speed versus cost. Shipping by sea is the most common and affordable method for moving an entire household, but it’s also the slowest, taking several weeks or even months. Air freight is much faster, often taking just a week or two, but it is significantly more expensive. Many people use a hybrid approach: they ship the bulk of their belongings by sea and send a smaller, essential shipment by air so they have what they need right away.
What happens if my shipment gets held up in customs? This is exactly why you hire an experienced international mover. Delays at customs are often due to incomplete paperwork or questions about the items being imported. A professional moving company acts as your customs expert, managing all the documentation and communicating directly with officials on your behalf. If an issue arises, they will know exactly who to contact and what to do to resolve it as quickly as possible, saving you a major headache.
