International moving is a different world from domestic relocation. Customs regulations, shipping methods, documentation requirements, and country-specific rules add layers of complexity that require specialized knowledge and planning.
Shipping Methods
Ocean Freight (Most Common)
Full Container Load (FCL): You get an entire shipping container (20ft or 40ft). Best for 3+ bedroom homes. Transit time: 2–8 weeks depending on destination.
Less than Container Load (LCL): Your belongings share a container with other shipments. More affordable for smaller moves. Transit time: 4–12 weeks (longer due to consolidation).
Cost Range:
- •20ft container: $3,000–$8,000 (port to port)
- •40ft container: $5,000–$12,000 (port to port)
- •LCL: $50–$100 per cubic foot
Air Freight
Much faster (3–10 days) but significantly more expensive. Best for small shipments, urgent items, or high-value goods.
Cost: $4–$8 per pound. A typical 500-pound shipment costs $2,000–$4,000.
Customs and Documentation
Essential Documents
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Every country has different rules, but commonly restricted items include:
- •Firearms and ammunition
- •Certain foods and agricultural products
- •Prescription medications (require documentation)
- •Plants and soil
- •Alcohol and tobacco (quantity limits)
- •Currency (declaration required above certain amounts)
Duty and Taxes
Most countries allow "used household goods" to enter duty-free if you meet residency requirements (typically 6–12 months of prior ownership). New items, gifts, and commercial goods may be subject to import duties of 5–25%.
Country-Specific Tips
United Kingdom
- •Right-hand drive vehicles cannot be easily imported
- •Electrical appliances need adapters (240V, Type G plugs)
- •Customs process is straightforward for household goods
- •NHS registration should happen within first week
Germany
- •Very strict customs documentation requirements
- •All items must be listed with serial numbers for electronics
- •Furniture must meet fire safety standards
- •Register your address (Anmeldung) within 14 days
Japan
- •Extremely thorough customs inspection
- •All items must be listed in Japanese on customs forms
- •Fumigation may be required for wooden items
- •Electrical appliances may not work (100V system)
Australia
- •Strictest biosecurity in the world
- •All wooden items, camping gear, and outdoor equipment will be inspected
- •Quarantine can add 2–4 weeks and $500–$2,000 in costs
- •Certain dog and cat breeds are restricted
Canada
- •Relatively straightforward for US citizens
- •Must declare all items and their values
- •Alcohol limits: 1.5L wine, 1.14L spirits, or 8.5L beer
- •Vehicles must meet Canadian safety standards
Timeline for an International Move
12 weeks before: Research destination country requirements. Get quotes from international movers. Begin decluttering.
8 weeks before: Book your mover. Start gathering documents. Schedule virtual or in-person survey.
6 weeks before: Begin packing non-essential items. Arrange pet transport if applicable. Notify banks, insurance, and subscriptions.
4 weeks before: Confirm shipping dates. Finalize customs paperwork. Arrange temporary housing if needed.
2 weeks before: Pack remaining items. Confirm all documentation is complete. Set up mail forwarding.
Moving week: Final walkthrough with movers. Verify inventory list. Keep essential documents with you.
How MoveMatch Pro Helps with International Moves
International moves require carriers with specific expertise, licenses, and customs brokerage capabilities. Our network includes carriers who specialize in overseas relocations and can handle every aspect — from packing and crating to customs clearance and final delivery.
Planning an international move? Get guaranteed quotes from carriers who specialize in overseas relocations.