Relocating from the US to Europe is an exciting time, and Europe is the busiest shipping route for some international movers in the US. Finding the best international moving company can be the difference between having a positive experience or a nightmare.
Below you will find a list of the best US-to-Europe international movers, moving costs from country to country, and money-saving tips. It’s always best to do research.
Also, read Your guide to the best international moving services.
Who are the best international movers for US to Europe?
International Van Lines, JK Moving & Storage, Rainier Overseas Movers, Allied Van Lines, and North American Van Lines are the best US-to-Europe international movers based on several industry-related publications.
Best Overall | Corporate Relocation | Great Reputation | Ad-on Services | Experience |
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Each listed company offers a unique approach, including ocean freight, air freight, and auto transport services. IVL offers a weekly consolidation from most ports in the US and internationally, moving to any European country.
International Van Lines
International Van Lines is a licensed freight forwarder and asset-based moving company covering the US and all European destinations.
IVL offers a weekly consolidation service out of all ports in the US, along with full container load (FCL) and airfreight transport to any European destination.
Several third-party consumer groups rank International Van Lines as the number one international moving company in the US. Whether you’re moving a few boxes or a 4 bedroom home, IVL can help.
JK Moving & Storage
JK Moving & Storage comes with over 40 years of experience in international moving. They maintain an excellent reputation and are considered among the best US-to-Europe international movers.
They offer virtual tour technology for a visual survey which helps with accuracy and efficiency. If you’re moving to Europe from the US, you can’t go wrong with JK Moving & Storage.
Rainier overseas movers
Rainier Overseas Movers are among the best for moving to Europe from the US. They come with years of experience, competitive pricing, and an array of international moving services.
Rainier offers consolidation, full container load, auto transport, and more. They also maintain one of the best reputations in the international moving industry.
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines offers international moving services such as packing and unpacking, custom crating, logistics management, storage solutions, and vehicle transportation.
Their experienced team will work with you to create a customized plan for your international move, ensuring your belongings arrive safely at their destination. They also offer comprehensive insurance coverage for added peace of mind.
North American Van Lines
Founded in 1933, North American Van Lines has grown to become one of the largest international moving companies in the United States. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them a reputation as a leader in the industry.
They offer international moving services, including residential and commercial moves, international relocations, storage options, and specialty moves for high-value items.
What’s the cost of moving from the US to Europe?
The average cost of moving from the US to Europe is $2500 to $11,500. The most significant cost factors are the destination country, service, and move size. You can use the below chart for cost averages:
Country | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom |
France | $2500-$4000 | $5000-$7000 | $9000-$13000 | $12000-$16000 |
Spain | $2800-$4200 | $5500-$7500 | $10000-$15000 | $12500-$16500 |
Italy | $3500-$4500 | $5800-$8000 | $11000-$15500 | $11500-$15000 |
Germany | $2500-$4600 | $5000-$7000 | $9500-$13500 | $11700-$15500 |
United Kingdom | $2200-$4500 | $5000-$7200 | $9000-$13000 | $11000-$15000 |
Poland | $3600-$4500 | $6000-$8500 | $10000-$15500 | $13000-$17000 |
Austria | $2900-$4200 | $5500-$7500 | $10500-$13800 | $11800-$16000 |
Greece | $3500-$5000 | $6000-$8000 | $11000-$15000 | $13000-$18000 |
Portugal | $4000-$5500 | $6500-$8500 | $10500-$14000 | $12500-$16500 |
Turkey | $4500-$6000 | $6900-$9000 | $11000-$15500 | $13500-$18500 |
It’s always best to get an international moving quote directly from a mover that offers regular services from the US to Europe. You can find the instant international moving rates to Europe here.
Checkout: International moving cost calculator
International moving services to Europe
According to Travel Leisure, European countries are amongst the most popular destinations for US ex-pats. Most international moving companies offer various services, including door-to-door ocean and airfreight. Below is a list of services you can choose from:
It’s always best that you speak with the company of your choice. US-to-Europe international movers can walk you through the process and offer guidance for the best shipping method and approach.
International auto transport to Europe
If you’re moving a car and household goods, you can consolidate them into one container. However, if you’re shipping a vehicle as a stand-alone service, you will have a few options. Below are shipping options for the least to most expensive:
Cheapest: Roll-on Roll-off (RORO) is the least expensive transportation method to get your car from the US to Europe. However, you must drop off and pick up your vehicle from both ports.
Mid-price range: A great way to save money on your international move is to consolidate your vehicle with others. Your car will be in a container, and you will split the costs with others shipping to the same destination.
Expensive: If you have a high-end vehicle or want your container, you will have that option. However, it’s the most expensive shipping method for a car.
It would help if you spoke with international movers about their shipping options and ways to reduce costs.
How long does a move take from the US to Europe?
If you’re moving from the US to Europe, you can expect a transit time of 4 to 8 weeks via ocean freight and 2 to 5 weeks via air freight. The destination, move size, and service will be the most significant factors in shipping time frames.
Smaller moves can take longer because they need to be consolidated into a container. Additionally, service can also affect how long your international move will take. Door-to-door service will be on the higher end of transit times.
Most international movers can offer you shipping time frames during the move quote process.
Should I get international moving insurance?
Yes, it would help if you considered getting moving insurance for an overseas move. Most US-to-Europe international movers offer insurance through a third party, which averages 2.5% to 4% of your household good’s declared value. See your options below:
Professional Pack: If your international mover is packing your household goods, you can purchase all-risk insurance. It’s excellent coverage based on your household goods value.
Packed by owner: If you’re self-packing, you can get total loss coverage covering the complete loss of your move.
If you opt-out of insurance, you will default to limited coverage, which is 60 cents per lbs per article. It would help if you spoke with your US-to-Europe international movers regarding their insurance options.
Pros and cons of self-packing for an overseas move
Self-packing is a great way to save money, but there’s a downside. It’s always best to look at the pros and cons of self-packing for an international move:
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Self-packing can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, so if you’re in a time crunch, it may be best to have professional movers pack your household goods. Additionally, professional international movers have the know-how.
Lastly, you’ll want to consider insurance. Self-packing will save you some bucks, but your insurance options will be limited, costing you more in the long wrong.
What are my storage options?
Most US-to-Europe international movers offer storage at the place of origin or destination. You should ask about a temperature-controlled unit if you need long-term storage (90 days+).
Storage costs can range from 50 cents to $1 per cubic foot and will include delivery once you’re ready. Make sure you ask your international moving company about their storage options and how insurance is handled while your goods are stored.
Do international moving companies offer airfreight?
Some international movers offer airfreight shipping for household goods. However, it can get costly. Airfreight can be double and even triple the cost of ocean freight, which is why ocean transport is the most common method.
However, if you’re on a time crunch and cost is not a factor, you can consider shipping via airfreight. The average transit time from the US to Europe is 2-4 weeks, but it can be sooner.
It’s always best to speak with the international moving company of your choice regarding their airfreight options.
How can I find a reputable international relocation company?
International moving is a niche industry because it requires a federal license. Ocean freight transportation involves knowledge and experience. Most moving companies in the US don’t offer international relocations, but here’s how you can find a reputable international moving company:
Check their license: International moving companies must have valid permission from the Federal Maritime Commission. You should always confirm their license information before you proceed.
Research: Check out online reviews and what people have to say about their international moving services. Also, check how they respond to complaints.
Don’t price shop: We all want to save money, and moving is the same, but price shopping for an overseas mover can get you into a jam.
Check their website: Take a look at a company’s website and the information they provide. You can understand a company’s professionalism by looking at its content.
Follow these steps, and you will be on your way to locating the right international moving companies.
Full container load dimensions
Below you will find the dimensions for a full container load (FCL)
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
Less than container load dimensions
Below you will find the dimensions for less than container load (LCL)
100 cubic feet 43.5" (L) x43.5 (W) x72" (H) 700lbs 200 cubic feet 87" (L) x87" (W) x48' (H) 1400lbs 300 cubic feet 90" (L) x80" (W)x50" (H) 2100lbs 400 cubic feet 90" (L) x 90" (L) x 85"(H) 2800lbs
People also ask:
How do I choose an international moving company?
You should choose an international moving company based on how comfortable you feel. They should answer all your questions and give you the sense that they’re familiar with moving people from the US to Europe.
How much money should I save for a move to Europe?
You should save at least three months of expenses before moving from the US to Europe.
What is the best country in Europe to move to?
According to Forbes, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, and Austria are the best countries in Europe to relocate to.
What’s the cheapest place to live in Europe?
According to Worldpacker.com, Poland, Romania, Portugal, Hungry, and Turkey are the cheapest places to live in Europe.
What are other reputable international movers?
Schumacher Cargo Logistics, Atlas Van Lines, Crown Relocations, and United Van Lines are all tremendous international moving companies that offer US-to-Europe relocations.
FAQ’s
Is customs clearance included?
Customs clearance is usually included on door-to-door international movers. However, it would help if you spoke with your US-to-Europe international movers to confirm. You can also check out country guides to answer questions about the moving process.
Will I pay duty or tax?
You will not pay tax or duty on used household goods.
What is the payment process?
US-to-Europe international movers take credit cards, ACH, and wire transfers for payments.
How far in advance should I book my move?
It would help if you allowed yourself as much time as possible, but at least 6 to 8 weeks before your moving date. You can use an international
Should I get an on-site survey?
If you’re moving over a one-bedroom, you should consider getting an on-site or virtual survey.
Conclusion
Europe is a great place to live, and finding the right international moving company to help you along the way is essential. Starting the process early will allow you enough time to research, plan, and organize things.
International Van Lines is a licensed freight forward and moving company. We offer direct service from the US to Europe, including a full container load or less than a container load service.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about your move.
