If you’re looking for the most affordable international moving companies, you’ve come to the right place. It’s no secret that transitioning to a new country isn’t cheap! Securing a visa, travel, accommodations, and hiring an international mover can be thousands of dollars.
We’ve compiled a list of reputable, most affordable international moving companies with years of experience and provide various international moving services that will fit your budget.
Top 5 most affordable international moving companies
International Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, Atlas Van Lines, North American Van Lines, and Mayflower Transit are the US’s most affordable international moving companies.
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Best Overall | Commerical Relocation | Excellent Reviews | Best Add-Ons | Most Exeprience |
Each company provides different international moving services unique to your specific needs. However, moving company costs can vary based on the size of your move, destination, and required services. Some companies are more affordable to specific countries.
It’s best to gather the details of your overseas move and get three estimates for comparison.
International Van Lines
International Van Lines
Corporate Address:
3961 NW 126th Ave
Coral Springs, FL 33065
License: FMC#021051
International Van Lines is one of the US’s most regarded international moving companies. In business since 2000, we are one of the fastest growing companies in America, per INC500. Additionally, third-party consumer groups such as Forbes and US News claim we’re the best international moving company.
International Van Lines also has excellent online reviews.
Services: Full-service packing, loading, ocean freight, air freight, customs clearance, and full destination services.
Whether you have a large move or you’re shipping boxes, International Van Lines can offer you an affordable solution that will meet your budget!
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines
Corporate office:
One Parkview Plaza
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
License: MC 15735 US DOT No.076235
Allied Van Lines is a company that offers a wide range of services, including international moving services. They offer packing services and unpacking services, and storage options if needed. Their Better Business Bureau rating is also excellent.
They can also help you with the logistics of your move, such as finding a new home or office and ensuring all of your belongings arrive safely. Allied Van Lines is a company you can trust to help you with all aspects of your international move. They’re one of the best international moving companies.
Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines
Corporate address:
1212 Saint George Road
Evansville, IN 47711
License: US DOT No. 125550
Atlas Van Lines is one of the best international moving companies in the US; they’re also one of the oldest and largest moving companies today.
Atlas Van Lines offers a wide range of services to help you move your belongings from the US abroad. They offer local, long-distance and international moving services.
They have a team of experienced professionals who can help you pack, unpack, and even set up your new home. Whether you’re moving across the country or down the street, Atlas van lines can help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines
Corporate address:
5001 US Highway 30 West
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
License: MC 107012U.S. DOT No.070851
North American Van Lines is one of the largest international moving companies in the world- they’re also one of the most affordable international moving companies.
They provide a full range of international moving services to individuals, families, and businesses. They have a vast network of international agents and partners, and our experienced team can help you with every aspect of your move.
Mayflower Moving
Mayflower Transit
Corporate address:
2100 Whitney St, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, 17701
License: US DOT No. 125563
Mayflower Transit is one of the leading international movers. They have been in business for over 70 years and have helped people relocate worldwide. They offer a wide range of services to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you are moving across the country or the globe, they can help you get there.
Mayflower offers a variety of services to help you with your international move, including:
– Packing and unpacking services
– Storage options
– Shipping logistics
– And more!
They’re one of the US’s most affordable international moving companies and have excellent online reviews.
Get a free international moving quote
How much does it cost to hire an international moving company?
Hiring an international moving company can cost between $2000 and $12,000. The size of your move, destination country, and service will be the most significant cost factors. You can use the international moving cost averages below for budgeting:
***Find the international moving cost average for ocean freight below (door-to-door)***
Destination | One-Bedroom | Two-Bedroom | Three-Bedrom |
Asia | $2,500-$4,000 | $4,500-$7,000 | $8,000-$13,000 |
Africa | $3,000-$5,000 | $5,000-$9,500 | $8,500-$14,000 |
South America | $2,800-$4,000 | $4,800-$8,000 | $9,000-$13,500 |
Europe | $2,500-$4,500 | $4,000-$7,000 | $8,000-$13,000 |
Canada | $2,500-$3,500 | $4,500-$7,000 | $7,500-$12,500 |
Australia/New Zealand | $3,500-$5,000 | $5,000-$8,000 | $9,000-$14,000 |
Some international moving companies are more competitive to specific destinations because of the volume of moves they handle to that location. For example, International Van Lines offers weekly service to Europe from the US, making us more competitive than other international moving companies.
Another great article: 12 tips for moving overseas cheaply
What’s the most affordable way to ship household goods overseas?
Quick answer: Ocean freight is the most affordable way to ship household goods overseas. Larger moves will ship in a Full Container Load (FCL), and smaller moves will ship in a shared container, also known as a Less than Container Load (LCL).
***Full Container Load (FCL) dimesnsions***
Container Type | Internal Dims | Cargo Weight |
40' Standard | 12.05 x 2.35 x 2.36M | 26,500kgs |
40' High Cube | 12.05 x 2.35 x 2.69M | 26,500kgs |
20' Standard | 5.89 x 2.35 x 2.36M | 21,700kgs |
20' High Cube | 5.89 x 2.35 x 2.69M | 21,700kgs |
The best international moving companies will offer you different service options that are affordable and fit your budget. It’s essential to disclose that you’re on a budget and looking for the most cost-effective way to transport your household goods overseas.
Choosing best international mover
How to find reputable international moving companies?
The reputation of an international moving company is critical. However, you’ll also want to ensure that your dealing with international movers that maintain the required licensing. Below are 5 tips you can use to help you find reputable international moving companies:
- Check their license: International moving companies must maintain an active license with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). You can visit their website or call them for verification.
- Reputation is essential: Always research online to find out who you’re dealing with. You can check reviews and ask for referrals from others that have used their services.
- Knowledge is critical: if you speak with an international moving company that doesn’t seem knowledgeable of the moving process or your destination, move on.
- Cost is important: There is no reason why an international moving company should be thousands of dollars more expensive than another. However, it’s important to overlook all international moving quotes for comparison.
- Response time is crucial: If an international moving company is too busy for you, you may want to look elsewhere. Moving to a new country is a lot, and your questions should be answered promptly.
Follow these steps and find the most affordable international moving companies that provide quality services.
How can I make my international moving costs more affordable?
The best way to reduce the cost of an overseas move is to self-pack, reduce the size of your move and consider a less expensive international shipping service. Here’s what you can do:
Declutter and purge: Moving overseas is a great time to eliminate unwanted stuff. Consider donating unwanted items or selling them online for some extra cash.
Consider self-packing boxes: If you’re up for the challenge, you can consider self-packing to save money on your move. You can get boxes from any local Home Dept or Walmart.
Ask about cheaper services: A door-to-door move will be more expensive than a door-to-port service. If you’re moving to a destination by a port, you can consider picking up your goods.
As for a discount: The most affordable international moving companies understand that you’re on a budget. It would help if you asked for a deal on your move; you may be surprised.
Follow these steps, and you will be on your way to reducing your international moving costs.
The most affordable way to ship boxes overseas
If you’re shipping a few boxes overseas, you can use an international parcel service through FedEx, USPS, or DHL. However, going through an international moving company can save you a lot of money.
International parcel shipping services like FedEx or DHL offer significant discounts to companies that ship large volumes. International movers like International Van Lines can offer a 70% discount on their standard rates.
Small box shipping is not a standard service that international movers offer, so make sure you ask before you spend the time.
Learn more: The cost of small international moves
What are the least expensive international auto transport services?
Roll-on roll-off (RORO) is the least expensive way to transport your vehicle overseas. However, there will be a little work involved. A RORO service is a port-to-port service that requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle.
You will need to bring all required paperwork like the original title, bill of laden, and licensed drivers. Your vehicle will load on an open vessel, so your car will be exposed to the elements.
The most affordable international moving companies offer auto transport services, but you can also ask about a shared container or consolidation service, which will save you money.
What’s the most affordable service international movers offer?
Port-to-port ocean transportation is the most affordable way to transport household goods overseas. However, the effort required for a port service may not be ideal for your situation.
If you choose to go with a port-to-port service, you will be responsible for dropping off and picking up your household goods at both ports. Additionally, any customs documentation and transportation to your final destination is your responsibility.
On the upside, you will save a lot of money. Choosing a port service is the cheapest way to transport your household goods overseas. Before committing to a port shipping service, you should ask about all international moving services so you can compare!
Why some international movers are more affordable than others
The most affordable international moving companies are less expensive because of the volume of moves they handle. The higher the volume, the more of a discount you may get.
International moving companies sign container contracts with ocean freight carriers. The more containers they reserve, the less expensive it will be, and they can pass the savings to you.
Additionally, larger moving companies will have a more extensive agent base which means they can find the most cost-effective route for your delivery to the destination.
What’s the most affordable time of year to move overseas?
The Winter season is off-season for international movers. It’s the least expensive time of year for an international relocation. You may see a cost difference of about 25% from moving during the summer months, which is the peak-moving season for international relocations.
Also, check out: 20 tips for moving overseas
FAQ
Is shipping household goods by air freight affordable?
Air freight services is the most expensive mode of transportation. The cost is double and sometimes triple the cost of ocean freight services. However, if you’re in a hurry to get your stuff, then air shipping is the way.
How far out should I book a moving date?
An international move requires planning and prepping. You should book your moving date at least 6-8 weeks prior. It would be best if you gave yourself and the international mover time to organize things.
How long does an international move take?
Ocean freight can take 6-8 weeks, whereas air freight takes 1-3 weeks. Speaking with your choice international relocation company about shipping time frames is best.
What’s the typical payment process for an international move?
Typically there’s a deposit which is paid upon booking (refundable). The deposit is deducted from your balance, and the balance is due before sailing. The best international moving companies accept all forms of payment.
Please also ask:
Who is the most affordable international mover from the US to Europe?
International Van Lines and Allied Van Lines offer a weekly full container load and less than container load service to Europe from the US. Their international moving costs are highly competitive.
Who is the best international mover for corporate relocation
If you’re relocating your office or warehouse, you can use any of the major moving companies listed here. International Van Lines offers an international corporate relocation package that is affordable.
How long does it take to get an international moving quote?
The complexity of your move will play a role in the length of time it will take to get a moving quote. However, you can expect 20 min to 24 hours on average.
Destination | Door to Door | Door to Port |
Asia | 25-32 days | 22-27 days |
Africa | 27-36 days | 24-30 days |
South America | 18-25 days | 14-22 days |
Europe | 22-28 days | 21-26 days |
Australia | 30-40 days | 25-32 days |
Canada | 7-14 days | 5-10 days |
How much does international moving insurance cost?
Moving insurance ranges from 2-4% of your household good’s declared value.
Conclusion:
International movers can be costly. However, you can find the most affordable international moving companies by researching and asking the right questions.
There are also many ways to reduce the cost of your move. It’s always best to speak with the international moving company of your choice about ways of reducing the cost of your move.
If you have any questions or want a free international moving quote, you can fill out an online form or call us!
