Household Goods Shipping
Shipping household goods can be a seamless experience with the support of international moving experts at International Sea & Air Shipping.
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Start Your International Moving Journey
Making the decision to move abroad is exciting but comes with many challenges. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, household goods shipping is a key part of the process. AShipping Household Goods Overseas
When moving abroad, working with a trusted international moving company ensures your possessions reach your new destination safely and on time. At International Sea & Air Shipping, we draw on over 75 years of experience to get your belongings across borders efficiently and securely. We offer comprehensive door-to-door international moves, including customs and freight, making your transition straightforward and stress-free. Start planning a seamless move with us today.
How to Ship Household Goods Internationally
Follow these steps when shipping household goods internationally:
- Make a list of everything you will be taking: Create an inventory, noting items that will require extra care in packing and transit, for an accurate estimate and smooth customs clearance.
- Consider your budget and timeline: Set your budget and timeline, factoring in travel dates and shipping costs.
- Evaluate your destination country’s regulations: Some countries will not permit specific wood products or animal items, for example, so if you have possessions made with those materials, you may need to place them in storage or make other arrangements.
- Prepare your documents: You will need to submit an inventory of your items and, in most cases, customs declarations. You may also need a work permit or visa and other documents.
- Secure insurance coverage: Even with a professional moving service, accidents can happen. All-risk coverage protects you against item loss or damage throughout your entire move. International Sea & Air Shipping offers customized insurance solutions, including for high-value goods.
- Contact professional movers early: An experienced international household moving company like International Sea & Air Shipping can help you with packing, documentation, compliance and more, simplifying the process significantly. Contacting us early means a streamlined move because we can support you from the start.
International Sea & Air Shipping offers a free pre-move survey to help you get started.
The Benefits of Partnering With Professional International Household Goods Movers
Expert movers make international household shipping easier because they:
- Pack and ship goods correctly: International shipments travel by sea or air, requiring specialized packing techniques. Professional movers use high-quality packing materials and proven methods to protect your belongings during transport.
- Free up time: An international move is a big life event. You may be spending more time with friends and family before you depart, taking care of last-minute visa requirements and more. We handle the logistics, giving you more time for what matters most.
- Tackle complex compliance requirements: Professional international movers understand customs, legal requirements, shipping logistics, documentation and country-specific restrictions. Our supportive team simplifies the paperwork process and manages compliance details, saving you significant frustration and last-minute costs, including penalties and delays.
- Keep you safe: Lifting heavy appliances or boxes can cause serious injury. Leaving the moving to professionals not only protects your household items but can also help you avoid physical strain.
- Minimize mistakes: New electronics and large quantities of alcohol may be considered commercial imports by customs. Valuable items like jewelry, documents, art and other items come with their own risk of theft. Dangerous and illegal substances such as flammable materials, gas or weapons can lead to fines and confiscation. Our team can help you understand how to transport sensitive items safely. We recommend carrying valuables with you when possible and storing them securely during transit.
Your International Household Goods Shipping Options
In container shipping, your belongings can be shipped in 20- or 40-foot dry containers, or with shared container service for smaller shipments. If time is of the essence and you don’t have too many large or heavy items, air freight is a faster alternative to ocean freight. If you need to move large or many belongings, ocean freight is cost-effective, though this method takes longer than air and ground transport. Land transportation may be required in addition to freight if your destination is not near a port or airport.
Need storage during your transition? We offer flexible storage options to keep your belongings safe for as long as you need. Short-term storage solutions can make your move easier by storing your items until you’ve set up your new home.
Why Choose International Sea & Air Shipping?
Among international shipping companies moving household goods, International Sea & Air Shipping stands out for:
- Benefit from decades of experience. With over 75 years of experience and a global network of more than 600 agents, we move your belongings safely worldwide.
- Access comprehensive full-service options. From expert packing of your most fragile belongings to offering insurance and door-to-door full moves with customs support, International Sea & Air Shipping works to make your move easier. We also offer custom crating for valuable items as needed and professional wrapping services for extra security. You can choose inside delivery to your final destination to ensure your belongings are brought indoors at your new home or business.
- Work with reliable, professional specialists. Our experienced team provides courteous, professional service you can count on. We manage the complexity of international shipping so you can focus on your new beginning.
- Utilize specialized services. From international car shipping for vintage and luxury cars to fine art shipping to specialized piano moving services and flexible, customized solutions, International Sea & Air Shipping has the resources to help.
- Take advantage of flexible storage solutions. We work around your schedule, keeping your belongings safe for as long as you need. Most of our storage facilities are climate-controlled to maintain optimal storage conditions. Whether you have gaps in your moving itinerary or need time to set up your new home, our flexible storage options mean your items arrive when it’s convenient.
- Receive competitive pricing. We work to keep our prices competitive, and we’re always looking for ways to work within your budget.
- Enjoy peace of mind. Our insurance solutions, including marine insurance for ocean freight and shipment tracking, are designed to reduce stress levels during your move.
Contact Us for International Shipping of Household Goods
Whether you’re moving household goods to Europe or elsewhere overseas, rely on us for door-to-door moves. International Sea & Air Shipping handles packing, insurance, storage and customs, as well as provides comprehensive paperwork support. We offer customizable solutions because we understand that each individual or family’s moving requirements are unique.
Ready for a smooth international move? Call 866-330-5882, email contact@internationalmoving.com or contact us online to discuss your overseas relocation needs.
FAQs
Can you ship household goods?
Yes, you can ship household items domestically and internationally. Many individuals choose to work with professional international movers to manage packing, transport, and customs requirements.
What is household goods in shipping?
“Household goods” are usually the personal property that is found in a home and may include furniture, artwork, decorations, curtains, and linens, for example.
How long does a household goods move take?
The time it takes to ship household goods will vary if they are shipped domestically or internationally. International packages typically take 2–8 weeks to be delivered, but they can be held up in customs in addition to the above time frame.
The shipping method also has an influence on the delivery time; you can choose what you like. Various transportation methods, such as tracking number, distance, customs clearance, insurance, and mode of transportation, will affect the arrival time.
What is the cost of moving household goods?
The cost of shipping is based on variables such as distance, weight and volume, and method of transport. Ocean freight is generally more cost-effective than air freight for international household goods shipments. Prices can cost anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the details of the shipment.
How to pack a shipping container with household goods?
Containerize, declutter, and organize first. Pack your things securely in robust materials such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Mark each box so it’s easy to unpack once you get there.
What is the best way to ship household items?
The perfect shipping option will depend on your timeline, budget, and the size of your shipment. When moving abroad, ocean freight is cheaper than air, and for smaller or domestic shipments, it may be a better option to choose trucking.
What documents are required for international household goods shipping?
For international shipments, you generally must submit an inventory list, customs declaration forms, as well as permits or visas, if appropriate to your destination.
