Get an international moving quote in seconds

As one of America’s best international moving companies, it’s our mission to provide you with an unforgettable moving experience.

Learn more about our international moving services

Get an international moving quote in seconds

As one of America’s best international moving companies, it’s our mission to provide you with an unforgettable moving experience.

Learn more about our international moving services

Moving overseas is an exciting time -experiencing a different culture and pace of life is appealing to many. But with everything to consider, it can also feel overwhelming.

Planning can help you avoid making money mistakes and help with organization. 

If you’re looking for an international moving quote, this article will help you plan, budget, and make the right decisions. It will also help locate the right moving company, learn the moving process, and use money-saving tips.

Also, Checkout: The Key International Moving Costs

The Best International Moving Companies

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 5,500 registered moving companies are in the US. However, only about 5% are licensed to perform ocean freight services. If you’re searching for an international moving quote, it’s best to search on the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) website.

The FMC regulates ocean transportation.

Below is a list of licensed professional movers who maintain the best reputations in the moving industry. Several third-party consumer groups rate these companies number one.

Each company listed offers full-value protection and packing services and can quickly get you a moving estimate in minutes. Additionally, most of these moving companies provide seniors and military discounts. It’s always best to research, read genuine customer reviews, and go with your gut.

International Moving Estimate

International Association of Movers

Moving costs to consider

There are several factors to consider when moving overseas. The size of your move, service, and destination country will be the most significant cost factors. Additionally, one of the most overlooked factors when moving is the moving date and the company you hire.

Below is a list of moving costs you should consider:

It’s always best to speak with a professional moving company regarding costs. However, it’s always good to be prepared with the right questions when looking for an international moving quote.

How much does an international moving service cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for international moving services can range from $1000 to $12,000. The size of your move and the moving services you request will significantly impact the price.

Hiring professional movers can get costly, especially for an international move. Planning early and educating yourself about the moving process can help save time and money.

Moving overseas is a great time to do away with unwanted items. Consider removing stuff you don’t need to help with cost and organization.

You can also consider self-packing for your international move. Packing your belongings can reduce the cost of your move by about 10%. However, it would help to weigh self-packing’s pros and cons before committing to the task.

Lastly, don’t contact interstate movers not licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission. It would help if you only looked for licensed companies that offer ocean freight transportation.

International moving cost averages

Below is a list of international moving cost averages. Speaking to an international moving company to get a written estimate is always best.

1 bedroomMost Popular

$ 2500-3000

Door to Door

2 bedroomMost Popular

$ 3500-5000

Door to Door

3 bedroomMost Popular

$ $5500-$7500

Door to Door

4 bedroomMost Popular

$ $8000-11000

Door to Door

What's the cost of shipping a car to another country?

Quickly answer: Shipping a car overseas is $1500 to $5000. The most significant cost factor is the service you choose. 

Below are the different shipping options: 

  • Roll-on Roll-off (RORO): You may consider RORO service if you search for the cheapest shipping option. You must bring your car to the loading port and pick it up at the destination port. 
  • Shared Service: A shared container service is a great way to reduce shipping costs and protect your car. Your car will be loaded in a container with others going to the same country, and all expenses will be divided up.
  • Container Service: The most expensive option is container services. You will get your container which you can use for your car, and if you’re shipping any household goods.

Most international relocation companies offer international auto transport. 

International Van Lines featured in INC

CEO, Josh Morales

What questions should I ask my moving company?

Here are the most important questions you should ask a mover when requesting a free moving quote:

Licensing: You should always ask your moving company for their FMC licensed number and confirm it’s valid. You should not use a company that can’t provide a license number.

Bonded and Insured movers: Ensure your chosen company has a bond and is insured. You can’t hold them liable for damage or loss if they are not.

Years in business: Although some newer companies are good, it’s always best to go with a track record company.

CLICK HERE FOR A QUICK INTERNATIONAL MOVING QUOTE

Hidden charges: You should always ask if there are any hidden charges in your moving cost. It would help if you asked about customs, taxes, and duties.

Insurance or full value protection: Always ask about insurance. Check whether or not it’s included in the cost.

Average transit time: A great question to ask is how long will my move take?

Packing costs: You should ask about the price difference if you need professional packing.

How to compare moving company quotes?

It’s best to get up to three moving quotes for comparison. Before making a decision:

  1. Ensure that the documents are printed.
  2. Review each line item to ensure a fair comparison.
  3. Look at the fine print and what’s not included in the move details.

If you are enquiring, only ask for an instant ballpark quote or a rough estimate based on general information. It is best to avoid this. For accuracy, asking for a visual or virtual tour would be best. If a company refuses a survey, then you should look elsewhere.

Remember when choosing a quote for your upcoming move. One may look better but only include some of the necessary fees. Do ensure that all costs are accounted for.

Moving overseas

Should I hire professional movers or sell my stuff?

It’s hard to determine if you should sell your furniture or ship them without an international moving quote.

Before deciding, request quotes and see if hiring professional movers is within your budget.

An international move can cost thousands of dollars, especially if you have a lot of stuff.

How long does international moving take?

Ocean freight can take anywhere from 12 to 20 days, whereas air freight can take 7 to 12 days. You will also need to consider the service you’re requesting. A door-to-door move will take longer than a port-to-port shipment. When you request the initial quote, you should confirm transit times with your mover.

When looking for free moving quotes, you should request the transit times from your mover. They should be able to provide the information promptly. However, you will also need to remember that things can change.

Transit times are ” estimated arrival times (ETA).”

Delays beyond the mover’s control cannot be addressed legally or financially. Customs delays and port congestion can occur frequently when moving or shipping overseas.

When should I reserve my international move?

It would help to start planning at least three months before your moving date. You can request an international moving quote, but there’s no need to book your move date that far out. Allow a mover at least one month before your date so they can adequately prepare. There’s a lot that goes into prepping an international move.

You will need to place a deposit to reserve your move date. However, in most cases, a deposit is fully refundable. When booking your moving date, you must ask about the mover’s cancellation policy.

relocation quote

What services do international movers offer?

Most international relocation companies offer ocean, air freight, and international parcel services. You will have the option of a door-to-door, door-to-port, port-to-door, and port-to-port service. Speak with the company of choice to better understand the service that best meets your needs. This will help you make an informed decision.

Door-to-door: Your move will be picked up from your origin and delivered to your destination. Customs clearance and any port-related documentation should be included. It’s the most convenient option.

Your shipment will be picked up from your original zip code and will then be delivered to the nearest port to your destination. You should check all international ports and familiarize yourself with the customs process.

Read Here: The Best way to Organize for an International Move

 

Port to door: You will deliver your household goods to a container freight station located at the port of origin. Your household goods will be delivered to your door.

Port to port: This is the least expensive option but will require some legwork. You must drop off and pick up your household goods at both port locations.

How much is it to ship boxes overseas?

Consider an international parcel service if you’re shipping boxes only. It will cost $600 to $2000. The number of packages and your final destination is the most significant cost factor.

Companies like FedEx and DHL offer parcel shipping. However, you should speak with a moving company who can provide you with a discount through their relationship.

What can go wrong when moving household goods overseas?

Although most overseas relocations go smoothly, something can always go wrong. The most common issues are delays, damage, and additional charges. There is also the potential for a customs inspection which can cause a delay and extra expenses.

You can help avoid some issues by planning and choosing one of the best international moving companies to handle your move. If an unprofessional mover gets a hold of your goods, things can go wrong quickly.

How much is it to ship a small amount of furniture overseas?

Shipping a small amount of furniture overseas costs $1000 to $3000. The cost of your international move will depend on two factors: the size of your move and the service you request. These will have the biggest impact on the price. 

Ocean freight is the most economical transportation method when moving overseas. When requesting an international moving quote, you should also ask for all shipping options for comparison. 

International Moving Quote FAQ

What’s the average I will spend on a move?

The average cost for an international move is $2000 to $6000. You can reduce your moving cost by downsizing and or self-packing.

What’s the best time of year to move overseas?

The peak moving season is between May and August. You will find it more affordable to move during the winter months.

Is self-packing worth it?

The pros of self-packing are you will reduce your moving cost. However, it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. You will still need to buy packing material that can set you back and affect your insurance options.

Should I purchase moving insurance?

Yes, it would help if you considered purchasing moving insurance.

How much does a cross-border move cost?

A cross-border move to Canada or Mexico can cost $1500 to $7,500. Your move size is the most significant cost factor.

How do I choose an international moving company?

You should start by checking the FMC website. You can also ask for references and study reviews. A mover must know the destination country you’re moving to.

What are add-on services?

If you have an expensive painting, furniture, or a piano, you can have the company crate them.

How many moving estimates should I get?

You should only get up to three moving quotes. Getting more than three quotes can cause confusion and a wrong decision.

What happens if something gets damaged?

You can file a claim for the declared value if you have insurance, but there may be a deductible. You will get 60 cents per pound per article if you don’t have insurance. Some international movers have different insurance policies, so it’s best to speak directly to the company of your choice. 

How long will my move take?

The typical transit time for ocean freight can be 12 to 20 days. Airfreight will be closer to 7 to 12 days. If you move door to door, the transit time will be longer. It’s best to speak with the moving company regarding transit times.

Where can I buy packing supplies? 

You can buy boxes online or at any local Home Depot, Walmart, or Uhaul. 

What is my storage option?

Most international moving companies offer storage options at the origin or destination location. Storage costs average from 60 cents to $1 per cubic foot. It’s best to speak with your choice of an international moving company about the details of their storage.

How to secure a visa when moving overseas?

There are a few things to remember when securing a visa for travel overseas. The first is to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. It includes your passport, birth certificate, and any other relevant paperwork.

Next, you must contact the consulate or embassy of the country you plan to visit. They will help you with the visa application process and provide you with any specific requirements that need to be met.

Know More Here: How to save money when moving abroad

Finally, preparing for an interview with consulate staff is essential. It’s your chance to show them you’re a serious traveler and have everything in order. Be sure to dress professionally and bring all required documents with you. 

Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to securing a visa for travel overseas. With the proper preparation, it can be a relatively straightforward process. Good luck! you

International quote conclusion

Getting an international moving quote can be a smooth process. It’s best to start planning and preparing for your move early. It will give you time to find the best international moving company and help save you money

Before calling around, you should take an inventory list of the items you’re moving along with the moving services you’ll require.

International Van Lines offer local, long-distance, and international moving services worldwide.

Whether you’re shipping a few boxes or a corporate relocation, we can help. We pride ourselves on quality customer service. To get a free moving quote, complete the online form or contact one of our professional relocation specialists today.