Moving Guide · 8 min read
Shipping Your Personal Belongings When Moving Abroad
Moving to another country is a huge undertaking, and your belongings are part of what makes the new place feel like home. Shipping a household overseas is very doable — most people send their goods by sea freight to keep costs down — but it pays to plan. This guide walks you through deciding what to ship, packing efficiently, preparing the paperwork, and getting your things delivered to your new address.
Step 1: Decide what to ship and what to leave
Shipping is priced by space, so the first question is whether an item is worth the space it takes. Sentimental and hard-to-replace items are usually worth bringing. Bulky, cheap, or easily replaced items often are not — it can cost more to ship an old sofa than to buy one at your destination.
- Bring: clothes, kitchenware, electronics, documents, keepsakes
- Consider: quality furniture and appliances if voltage matches
- Leave: cheap bulky furniture, perishables, anything restricted
Step 2: Pack a household efficiently
Use uniform, sturdy boxes that stack well, and label each with its room and contents. Wrap fragile items individually and fill voids so nothing shifts. Keep a numbered list as you pack — it becomes your inventory and helps you confirm nothing is missing on arrival.
Step 3: Prepare your personal-effects inventory
When you move (rather than ship commercial goods), customs usually wants a detailed inventory of your used personal effects. Many countries grant duty relief on genuine household goods of someone relocating, but only with a proper inventory and sometimes proof of residence. Keep the list accurate and itemised — vague lists slow clearance.
Step 4: Choose your transport and timing
Most household moves go by sea freight because it is far cheaper for volume. Air freight is worth it only for a small set of essentials you need immediately. Plan timing around your move date: sea freight takes weeks, so ship early and keep a small air-freight or carry-on set of essentials for the gap.
Step 5: Delivery to your new home
After customs clearance at the destination port, your shipment is delivered to your new address with tracking the whole way. We coordinate pickup in the USA, sea or air transport, clearance, and final door-to-door delivery so your move is handled end to end.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to ship my furniture or buy new?
For cheap or bulky furniture, buying at the destination is often cheaper than shipping. For quality or sentimental pieces, shipping is usually worth it. Compare the volumetric cost against local prices.
Do I pay duty on my own used belongings?
Many countries grant duty relief on genuine used personal effects when you are relocating, provided you supply a proper inventory. Rules vary by destination — we advise you for your specific country.
How long does an overseas move take?
Sea freight typically takes several weeks depending on the route and clearance. Ship early and keep a small set of essentials with you for the gap.
Planning a move abroad?
Tell us what you are moving and we'll quote sea or air freight, customs, and door-to-door delivery to your new home.