Moving overseas is a daunting task. Securing a visa, a new home in a new country, and finding a mover are all things that can consume your time and mind. This article will provide you with the best international movers in New York, helpful information, and money-saving tips.
Each international moving company listed is lisenced by the Federal Maritime Commission, maintains a stellar reputation, and has years of experience moving household goods abroad.
Find the best international movers in New York
Who are the best international movers in New York?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there are over 5500 registered moving companies in the US. However, only about 5% are lisenced & bonded to perform ocean freight services. An international mover must hold a valid lisenced with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and the proper bond.
Below is a short list of the best international movers in New York:
Besides maintaining an excellent reputation, IVL is lisenced by the FMC (#021051) and has the required bond. With over 30,000 international moves, IVL has knowledge and experience with over 140 destination countries.
In addition, IVL maintains its position as the number one international mover in New York by Forbes and other consumer groups.
Services offered:
Highly competitive rates
Packing services
New York location
Ocean, air, and parcel services
Customs clearance
Insurance
Storage options
Different shipping options
Vehicle transport
East coast operation
Specialized shared container service
2. Allied Van Lines (Allied)
Since 1928, Allied Van Lines has provided professional moving and storage services to individuals and businesses worldwide. With over 500 agent locations in North America alone, they can offer customers comprehensive services to meet their specific needs.
They have various vehicles and equipment to handle any size, from small residential moves to international shipping services.
Services offered:
Packing services
New York location
Ocean freight
Customs documentation
Insurance
Long and short term storage
Different shipping options
Warehouse location
International moves
3. Mayflower
Mayflower Transit is an American moving company that was founded in 1927. The company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and has more than 300 locations across the United States.
Mayflower offers various services, including local, long-distance, international moving services, and commercial moves. The company also provides storage solutions and has a team of professional packers and movers who can help with the packing and moving process.
Services offered:
Packing services
New York location
Ocean freight
Customs clearance
Insurance
Long and short term storage
Different shipping options
Contacts worldwide
Handles the North Eastern States
International moves
4. Atlas Van Lines (Atlas)
Atlas Van Lines is one of the largest moving companies in the United States. It was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Evansville, Indiana. Atlas has over 500 trucks and offers a wide range of local, long-distance, and international relocation services.
Atlas Van Lines can get your household goods to your destination country.
Services offered:
Packing services
New York location
Moving Services
Ocean freight
Customs clearance
Insurance
Long and short term storage
Different shipping options
Corporate relocation
Long-distance moving
Full container load
5. North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines is one of the leading moving companies in the United States. They have been in business for over 70 years and have moved millions of families and businesses.
North American Van Lines offers a full range of moving services, from international moving services to local. They have a fleet of over 2,000 trucks and a network of over 500 locations across the country.
Services offered:
Packing services
East coast operations (New York location)
Ocean freight
Customs documentation
Insurance
Long and short term storage
Different shipping options
Corporate relocation
Flexible business hours
Free estimate
Additional Service
How much does an international mover cost?
An international move from New York abroad will cost $2000 to $8000. Your final destination and total volume are the most significant cost factors. Other things that can affect your cost are service, time of year, and choice of mover.
How can I reduce my international moving costs?
International moving is expensive, but you can reduce the cost by eliminating unwanted items, self-packing, and your chosen services. You can also ask for a discount on the price.
Below is the best way to save money on your international move:
Purge: International moving is a great time to get rid of stuff. Go room by room and eliminate items you can live without. You can use a non-profit in New York for pickup or sell them online.
Self-Pack: Self-packing for a move can be expensive. Consider self-packing your items like clothes, books, and shoes.
Shipping options: If you’re on a tight budget, you can consider the different shipping options that can help reduce your cost.
Ask for a discount: It never hurts to ask for a deal. Moving international moving companies will offer something.
The best international movers in New York will work with you. It’s essential to ask them the right questions.
Prepare for an international move checklist
Being prepared for an international move will help you stay organized and allow time to settle into your new home. You can use an international moving checklist which will help you every step of the way.
How long does an international move take from New York?
The destination country and mode of transportation will determine the shipping time. However, ocean freight service can take 12 to 20 days, whereas air freight can take 7 to 15 days.
How much does air freight cost from New York?
Air freight will cost $4000 to $15,000. The weight and service will be the most significant cost factor. Ocean freight is less expensive than air freight. However, air shipping is your best option if you’re in a time crunch.
Questions to ask international movers in New York
International moving can be stressful so asking the right questions is essential. It can help eliminate unforeseen problems and additional charges. So, make sure you read the questions below before making the initial call.
Below is a list of questions you should ask your international moving company:
What is your FMC license number?
How long have you been moving internationally?
What is the customs documentation process?
How long does international moving take?
Do you offer professional packing?
What’s your insurance process and costs?
What are the additional services you offer?
Do you offer virtual or visual moving estimates?
What are the customs requirement?
Do you offer a free moving quote?
Are there any additional fees that can arise?
What are port charges?
Do you provide information about international moving on your website?
The above questions can help you determine if an international moving company has the experience and knowledge. The best international movers in New York should be able to assist you and walk you through the process.
Shipping Cars RO-RO – Roll On/Roll-Off
How much is international auto transport from New York?
International moving companies in New York will charge $1800 to $5000 to ship a vehicle overseas. The service you choose will have the most significant impact on cost.
Below is a list of services you can choose from:
Roll-on Roll-off (RORO): RORO is your best bet if you’re looking for the least expensive shipping option. However, there will be some leg work involved. It’s a port-to-port move that will require you to drop and pick up your vehicle to and from the port.
Consolidation: Another way to reduce your international relocation cost is by sharing space in a container. Your car is loaded in a container with others going to the same destination country. There are several consolidation points in New York.
Single container: If you’re shipping household goods and a car, you can use a single container. You will also have the option to send your vehicle in a single container. However, you should expect to pay around $3500 to $5000.
Air freight: Some moving companies will offer air freight as an option. It’s the most expensive option and is typically used for speed and or higher-end vehicles.
Transport boxes from New York overseas
The cost of baggage or parcel shipping from New York to a foreign country will be $500 to $2000. The box count and weight will be the most significant cost factor. You will also have the option of ocean freight; however, it can take up to 30 days.
Some international relocation companies offer parcel shipping for boxes only. Typically they’re done through FedEx or DHL, and a significant discount is applied. You should check company services when requesting rates.
Dropping stuff off at Port New York & New Jersey
If you’re considering a port drop-off service, you must drop your household goods at a container freight station by Red Hook Terminals. The international moving company you chose will provide you with a booking confirmation which will show the address, booking number, and shipping confirmation. Your goods will then be placed on pallets before being loaded into a container. However, keep in mind that international moving companies have their own process.
Is it worth getting international moving insurance?
You should consider international shipping insurance if you’re moving overseas. The cost will range from 2% to 4% of the good’s declared value.
International moving can take a while – your goods will be on the ocean in choppy water and handled multiple times. If items aren’t packed well, there is a high likelihood of damage.
It’s always best to consider purchasing insurance to be safe. Most international moving companies offer insurance through a third party with a deductible of about $500.
How does payment work with international moving companies?
Most international moving companies will collect a deposit that can be placed on a credit card and deducted from the balance. The final balance is typically due before sailing out of New York.
Most moving companies will offer a 100% refund of the deposit if you cancel your move up to 3 days before pickup. Every international mover works differently, so you should ask the question upon requesting a free estimate.
How far in advance should I book my international move?
You should give yourself at least three months before your planned moving date to secure a visa, find a moving company, check customs requirements and finish whatever international services you need to handle.
If you can allow yourself more time, it would be best. To have a stress-free experience, you should consider starting six months before your moving date. An overseas move requires much attention, so leave yourself some time.
International Van Lines
How do I secure a visa when moving from New York abroad?
You’ll need to do a few things to secure a visa when moving from New York to a new country. First, research the visa requirements of the country you’re moving to.
Make sure you have all required documentation, such as a passport and evidence of financial stability. Additionally, you may also need to provide a criminal background check.
Once you have all the necessary documentation, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you’re moving to and schedule an appointment for a visa interview.
However, be prepared to answer questions about your plans in the new country, and be sure to follow all instructions from the embassy or consulate staff.
How to find the best international moving services in New York?
The best international movers in New York are International Van Lines, Allied, Mayflower, Atlas Van Lines, and North American Van Lines. Other good companies can handle an international move, but these companies have a proven track record.
Each company has a unique moving process, but they’re all quality companies. Additionally, they all provide similar services.
When speaking to a relocation coordinator, it’s essential that you feel comfortable and get all of your questions answered.
Instead of getting ten moving quotes, narrow it down to three companies you like. Getting too many quotes can confuse.
Get an international moving quote with International Van Lines
Getting an international moving quote with IVL is simple. First, we will start by scheduling a virtual tour. Next, we will offer a virtual tour so we can get a more accurate description of what you’re moving.
Once everything is established, we will email a moving quote for your viewing. You will most likely have some questions we will be happy to answer.
If you choose to proceed and have a date, we will send you a link with the shipping, insurance, and payment form.
Lastly, we will send you an email with the shipping details, which will show the vessel, voyage, and booking confirmation. You will have access to a personal relocation coordinator to answer questions.
Once your shipment arrives at the destination port, you will be notified, and then off we go to delivery. However, if you have any questions or would like to speak with a relocation coordinator contact us at any time.
