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International Moving

The Key International Moving Costs

By June 1, 2022February 29th, 2024No Comments
What's the cost of hiring an international moving company

Moving to a new country is exciting, but at the same time, the process can be daunting. Having a guide with the key international moving costs can help you plan and budget for your international move. 

There are many costs to consider when moving to a new country and international moving costs are just one. This article will provide a breakdown of costs when moving abroad.

If you’re considering an international move or shipping household goods overseas, you should start planning at least 3 months prior. It gives you enough time to secure a visa, find a mover and figure out travel arrangements. 

How much does it cost to move things overseas?

Quickly answer: Moving things overseas can cost anywhere from $1000 to $10,000. The final destination and service will be the most significant cost factor. Additionally, the time of year and the mover or shipping company you choose can affect the cost. 

The size of your move and service will play a significant role in the cost of your move. Moving overseas is a great time to purge. Consider getting rid of unwanted items to help reduce the cost. You can use a non-profit for furniture pickup or sell some stuff online. 

Additionally, you can consider packing your own belonging. Consider self-packing if you’re up for the challenge and have the time. You can purchase boxes online or at any local Home Depot. Most shipping companies can offer professional packing.

The key international moving costs are also comprised of the international moving company you chose. Companies that handle larger volumes tend to have better pricing. It’s also essential to weed out any unlicensed or unscrupulous companies. 

How much does it cost to move house overseas?

Quick answer: The estimated cost to move a two or three-bedroom home is $6500 to $11,000. Moving costs will vary based on the final destination and service you chose. 

Moving internationally can be a costly endeavor. The good news is there are ways to reduce your international shipping costs. We will get into more details below, but for now, you can use this guide below for budgeting. 

When relocating your house overseas, the key international moving costs are service, move size, and the destination country. 

***You can use the below rates for planning and budgeting***

Continent 1-2 Bedroom Home 3-4 Bedroom Home 5-6 Bedroom Home
Europe $3500-$7000 $8000-$12,000 $11,000-$17,000
Asia $3900-$8200 $8500-$13,000 $12,000-$17,500
Australia $4000-$9000 $8700-$12,500 $13,000-$18,000
Africa $4500-$10,000 $9000-$15,000 $14,000-$18,500
South America $3800-$8800 $8500-$13,600 $11,800-$16,000

 

What are the costs of shipping a car overseas? 

Quick answer: The average vehicle shipping costs are $1800 to $5000. The service option you choose will be the most significant cost factor. However, your destination country will also affect the costs.

Below are the key international moving costs when shipping a car overseas:

Roll-on Roll-off: If you’re looking to get your car to its destination cheaply, Ro/Ro is your best option. It’s a port-to-port service, and your vehicle will be exposed. 

Consolidation Service: Another great option for reducing costs is shipping via consolidation. Your car will be loaded in a container with others going to the same destination. 

Exclusive container: The most expensive option is to get your own container. Suppose you’re moving household goods and a car that can be loaded in the same container. Getting a container will be a higher cost, but it’s something to consider.

The Key International Moving Costs 2022

loading cargo into the aircraft before departure

What is the cost of international air freight shipping? 

Quickly answer: The typical international air freight shipping cost can be double the sea freight cost. The fees range from $3500 to $15,000. The size of your move and weight will affect the price. 

Additionally, the final destination and freight forwarder you chose can also affect the cost. There may also be some additional charges that you should discuss with your overseas mover. 

If you’re in a hurry and not so concerned about the budget, you should consider air freight. It will help if you compare prices between ocean freight and air freight. International moving costs will vary from company to company, but the key international moving costs will be your move’s weight and or size. 

How much is international moving insurance, and do I need it? 

Quick answer: International moving insurance varies from company to company, but you can expect to pay 2% to 4% of the good declared value. You will have the option of total loss or full coverage insurance. Moving insurance costs are best to get from your international relocation company.

Total loss insurance: You will only be eligible for total loss insurance if you’re self-packing. Total loss insurance will cover the shipment as a whole and not specific items. If the boat sinks or your goods are completely lost, you can file a claim. Otherwise, you will get 60 cents per lbs per article. 

All-risk insurance: If you have a professional mover pack your boxes, you’re eligible for all-risk insurance. All-risk insurance is premium insurance covering the good’s declared value. 

Moving insurance is part of the key international moving costs you should consider and plan for. Sea freight typically takes three to four weeks, and things can go wrong. 

What’s the cost for storage on an international move?

Storage costs vary from company to company. However, you can expect to pay an average of 50 cents per cubic foot. To determine the exact storage costs, you need to know your volume and how long you will need. It’s best to speak with the international moving company regarding storage cost. 

You will have the option to store at the origin location or the final destination. If you need long-term storage (3 months +), you may want to ask about a temperature-controlled storage unit. 

Another key international moving costs you should ask your mover is insurance on goods in storage. Some insurance companies won’t cover damage in storage, so asking the right questions will help for a better decision. When calculating international moving costs, it’s essential to know the right questions to ask. 

International parcel shipping costs

Parcel Shipping

How much does it cost to ship boxes overseas

Quick answer: If you’re looking to ship boxes from the US to another country, you can use a moving company or parcel service like FedEx. The number of packages, weight, and final destination will be the most significant cost factor. 

The average cost for parcel shipping is $1000 to $2500. Additionally, you may want to put insurance on your goods which can be an added cost. Companies like DHL and FedEx can assist. However, some international movers can provide you with a significant discount making less to use them. 

You can speak with a mover directly or visit the FedEx or DHL website if you’re calculating the key international moving costs. Before doing so, it would help if you had the total box count, dimensions, and approximate weight. 

Cost of international pet relocation

Snapshot: Pet transportation can range anywhere from $3000 to $12,000. The type of pet, final destination, and paperwork involved will be the most significant cost factor. 

There are a few things to keep in mind when transporting your pet internationally. First, you’ll need to make sure your pet is up to date on all vaccinations and has a valid health certificate. You’ll also need to check with the airline or other carrier to find out their requirements for pet travel.

Once you have everything in order, you’ll need to book your pet’s travel arrangements. You’ll need to make sure your pet can fly in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold if you’re flying. Some airlines have restrictions on what types of pets can travel in which cabin, so be sure to check before booking your flight.

When traveling with your pet, it’s essential to be prepared for anything. Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork and supplies and know what to do in case of an emergency. If you’re calculating international moving costs, you can contact companies like IPATA, which offer international pet transportation. 

Cost for customs duties, taxes, and port charges

Most countries will charge customs and port charges. Customs duties and port fees depend on what you’re moving to and your final destination. 

Most international moves going door to door will include customs duties and port charges as part of the cost. However, it’s always best to check with the moving companies you consider.

The average costs for port charges range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. However, if you’re moving door to door, they will be included in your shipping costs. 

The destination country and the size of your shipment will be the key international moving costs, but it’s always best to speak with a professional about customs duty charges.  

What are visa fees?

When moving from the United States to another country, there are a few things to consider regarding visa fees and legal costs. 

First, it is essential to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are moving to find out their specific requirements and fees for obtaining a visa. 

Visa costs depend on what you’re moving for and the final destination. When calculating international moving costs, it’s always best to speak directly to an agency like CIBTvisas

In addition, it is also wise to consult an attorney specializing in immigration law to get an estimate of any legal fees that may be associated with your move. 

Finally, remember that these costs can vary depending on many factors, so it is always best to get several quotes before making any final decisions. If you’re working with an international moving company, they may be able to assist you. 

International Moving guide

How much is for transferring money abroad?

When you need to transfer money overseas, there are a few things to consider. The most crucial factor is the exchange rate – how much your home currency is worth in the country you’re sending money to. The exchange rate can fluctuate daily, so checking the rate before making a transfer is essential.

You’ll also need to consider any fees that may be charged for making the transfer. Some banks and money transfer services charge a flat fee, while others may charge a percentage of the sent amount. Consider comparing rates and prices before choosing a service to know how much the transfer will cost you.

Finally, keep in mind that it may take a few days for the money to arrive in the recipient’s account. It’s due to the time it takes for the funds to clear through the banking system. If you need the money to arrive urgently, you may consider using a service that offers express transfers.

The key international moving costs may come with exchange rate fees, so make sure you plan accordingly when budgeting for your move.

What are the typical travel costs when moving overseas?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as travel costs can vary greatly depending on the destination, mode of transportation, and length of stay. However, some general estimates can give you an idea of what to expect when moving overseas.

For instance, a recent study found that the average cost for international travel is $2,300. This figure includes the cost of airfare, shipping belongings, and other associated expenses. It is important to note that this is just an average – some moves may be more or less expensive depending on the specific circumstances.

When budgeting for an overseas move, it is also essential to factor in living costs in your new destination. It can vary widely from place to place, so do your research in advance. Expenses such as housing, food, and transportation should be considered the key international moving costs.

What is the average cost of buying new furniture? 

When moving to a new country, one of the things you’ll need to consider is the cost of buying new furniture. Depending on where you’re moving to, the cost of living can be pretty high, likely impacting the cost of buying new furniture. In general, it’s best to do some research ahead of time to know how much things will cost in your new location.

Looking at the cost of living in your new country is an excellent place to start. This will give you an idea of how expensive everyday items are, which can help you budget for other expenses like buying new furniture. 

Additionally, it’s worth considering whether you’ll need to buy all new furniture or if you can bring some pieces. It’s best to compare the key international moving costs with the cost of buying new furniture in your new country. 

average cost of buying new furniture

How much will I spend if I self-pack for my move?

Quick answer: The cost of packing supplies will depend on what you need and how much stuff you have. However, you can expect to spend an average of $150 to $500 on boxes, tape, and blankets. 

Moving to a new country can be stressful, and there’s a lot to think about. Having an international moving company can get costly, so self-packing can help save money. 

How to ship household goods overseas

You can ship household goods overseas by hiring an international moving company or freight forwarder with experience with household goods. 

It’s essential to do some research before selecting a shipping company. Just because a company has experience with sea freight does not mean they have experience with household goods. 

Ask about the key international moving costs and details on what’s included and not included in the price. 

Things you should ask about: 

  • Customs duty 
  • Insurance cost 
  • Port charges 
  • Packing materials
  • Storage cots
  • Information about your final destination 
  • Additional costs

How to save money on your move

You can do a few things to save money on your move:

Get quotes from multiple companies: This will help you compare rates and find the best deal.

Pack yourself: Packing yourself can save you a lot of money on labor costs.

Get rid of unnecessary items: The less you have to move, the cheaper it will be. So get rid of anything you don’t need.

Move during the off-season: Moving during the summer is peak season for movers so rates will be higher. Try to schedule your move for another time of year if you can.

By following these tips, you can save a significant amount of money on your international move.

Best moving companies

International Van Lines

How to find the best international moving company

Quick answer: The governing agency for ocean freight transportation is the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). A moving company must have a valid license and bond to operate legally. You can check the FMC website or call them to get more insight into the international moving companies you’re considering. 

Unlike domestic moving, international moving requires many moving parts. There’s trucking, warehousing, ocean freight, and customs. You should only use a company with the knowledge, reputation, and licensing required to get your good to their final destination. Most international moving companies are good, so that’s the good news.

You can also use Google to check reviews & ratings, and references from friends and family. When calculating international moving costs, you do not want to search for cheap. Look for a company that has history and that you feel comfortable with. They should include all of the key international moving costs in their estimate.

Other key international moving costs to consider

If you’re calculating international moving costs, consider a few essential costs. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1. International Moving Services: Depending on how much stuff you have, it can be pretty expensive to ship your belongings overseas.

 

2. Storage Costs: If you’re not planning on taking everything with you, you’ll also need to factor in storage costs. 

3. Currency Exchange Fees: You’ll need to convert your US dollars into the local currency when you move to another country. 

4. Cost of Living: This is probably the highest cost to consider when moving to another country. Do some research on the cost of living in your new country so you can budget accordingly. You will also want to enquire about the direct property taxes if they apply.

5. Visa/Passport Fees: If you’re not a citizen of the country you’re moving to, you’ll need to obtain a visa. 

6. Education Costs: If you have children, you’ll need to factor in the cost of their education. Private schools can be pretty expensive, so make sure to do your research and budget accordingly.

7. Healthcare Costs: Another substantial cost to consider is healthcare. In some countries, healthcare is accessible or very affordable. In others, it can be pretty expensive. 

8. Housing Costs: One of the highest costs you’ll face when moving to another country is housing. Research the average rental prices in your new country to budget accordingly.

9. Utility Costs: Utilities, such as electricity and water, can be expensive.

What’s the cheapest time of year to move? 

The least expensive time of year to move is the winter months. It’s about 20% less costly to relocate to a new country during the winter than in the summer. 

Summertime is peak moving season. Kids are out of school, and the supply and demand in the housing market shift. 

Although you may not be able to control when you move, if you can move during October and April, it will be less expensive. 

What’s the average transit time on sea freight?

Transit time can vary based on the size of your move, shipping or moving company, and the service you request. A typical transit time for door-to-door sea freight is 17-25 days, whereas a door to port service will be closer to 12-15 days. 

Before planning your schedule around the shipping time, you should speak with your moving company directly and get the schedule. A shipping or moving company can gather details directly from the ocean carrier and confirm arrival dates. 

Your final price will not change unless you request a specific arrival date which may require a different mode of transportation. 

sea freight

What’s the key to a positive moving experience?

The key to having a positive outcome when moving to a foreign country is to plan and research. Allow yourself at least three months before your moving date to plan. Preparing for your move in advance can be the difference between a smooth experience or a rocky road.

If you’re hiring a mover, you should start the process at least three months prior. You want to give yourself enough time to research the best international movers. You also need to gather details on what you’re shipping and learn about the different service and price options. It’s good to get an exact cost for your move. 

Additionally, you will also need time to secure a visa. It can take some time, but you can make sure everything sinks well together with the proper planning. 

The key to international moving costs is to gather all the details and plan and budget accordingly. 

Is moving to a new country worth it?

There are many benefits to moving overseas, including the opportunity to experience a new culture, learn a new language, and gain new skills and experiences. Moving overseas can also be a great way to advance your career or start a new business.

Additionally, living in a new country can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, there are also some challenges to moving overseas, such as adjusting to a new culture. Overall, the decision to move abroad is a personal one that depends on your circumstances.

If you are considering moving overseas, it is vital to do your research and carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about moving overseas:

1. The cost of living in your destination country.

2. The availability of jobs.

3. The quality of life.

4. The climate.

5. The safety of the country.

6. The proximity to family and friends.

7. The political situation in the country.

How much should I save for an international move?

If you’re moving to another country, there’s a lot to think about in terms of your finances. One of the big questions is how much money you should save up before making a move. The rule of thumb is to save at least three months’ bills and additional moving toward relocation costs. 

There are a few things to consider when figuring out how much to save. First, you’ll need to have enough money saved up to cover the cost of your move. It includes airfare, shipping costs, and any other associated expenses.

You’ll also need to have enough money to cover your living expenses in your new country. It includes housing, food, utilities, and other necessary costs. Make sure to research the cost of living in your new country to budget accordingly.

Finally, you’ll need to have some extra money saved up in case of emergencies. It is essential if you’re moving to a country with a higher cost of living. It’s always better to be safe than sorry for your finances.

Conclusion

Proper planning and budgeting for relocating to a new country can be a smooth experience. Give yourself some time to look into moving companies and secure a visa and housing and figure out travel costs. 

You can consider speaking with a relocation company like International Van Liens, which can help you plan and offer you different shipping options for your household goods. 

Moving overseas is exciting, so don’t let the key international moving costs scare you. You can use this article ad a guide to help you plan and navigate. If you have any questions or need any assistance with your move, you can contact us anytime.

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