We recommend beginning the planning process at least eight to twelve weeks before your intended departure date. Some destinations require additional lead time for documentation. Contact us early so we can advise on the appropriate timeline for your specific destination.
Accolades and Achievements:
Trusted Partners Of:
What International Moving Requires
An international move is not simply a long distance move with a larger truck. Every destination country has its own import regulations, documentation requirements, and customs processes. Certain items are restricted or prohibited. Shipping timelines vary significantly by destination, and delays at customs can affect everything downstream. Packing standards for international freight are higher than domestic moves because items spend more time in transit and may pass through multiple handling points.
We work with established international shipping partners to coordinate every stage of your move. From origin packing and documentation through customs clearance and destination delivery, every component is planned and tracked. You have a dedicated contact throughout the process so you always know where your shipment stands and who to call with questions.
Our estimators review your inventory, identify any restricted or high-value items, advise on documentation requirements for your destination, and build a realistic timeline that accounts for shipping and customs processing. International moves require more lead time than domestic ones, and we build that into the planning from the start.
Coordination You Can Count On From Origin to Destination
The quality of an international move depends almost entirely on the quality of the coordination behind it. A missed customs form, an improperly packed item, or a missed documentation deadline can result in delays, fines, or items being held at a port. We have the processes in place to prevent these issues before they happen.
Our team handles packing for international moves using materials and methods rated for the longer transit times and varied conditions of international freight. High-value and fragile items are custom-crated. Every item is inventoried and documented with the level of detail that customs and insurance require.
-
Free written estimates with no obligation
-
Fully licensed and insured for international moves
-
Custom crating for fragile and high-value items
-
Dedicated coordination contact throughout your move
-
Up to 60 days of free storage with every move
Other Services
Long Distance Moving – Interstate moves managed through our Bekins Van Lines agent network with the same careful coordination we bring to international relocations.
Corporate Relocation Services – Employee relocation programs with consistent standards for both domestic and international assignments.
Custom Crating – Purpose-built crates for artwork, antiques, and fragile items requiring protection beyond standard packing methods.
Packing Services – Professional packing for entire homes or specific rooms, with materials appropriate for international transit conditions.
Warehouse & Storage Solutions – Secure, climate-controlled storage available before departure or at your destination during the transition period.
White Glove Delivery & Assembly – Premium setup and placement services at your destination once your shipment clears customs.
How We Handle Your International Move
International moves require a longer planning horizon than domestic relocations. We begin the coordination process weeks before your move date to ensure documentation, packing, and logistics are in order well before your departure window.
Our international move process starts with a detailed inventory review and a destination assessment. We research the customs requirements and import regulations for your specific destination country and advise on any items that may require additional documentation or that are subject to restrictions. A detailed move plan is built around your departure date, destination timeline, and any storage needs.
Packing and Origin Coordination
Our packing team uses international-grade materials rated for extended transit and varied handling conditions. Fragile and high-value items are custom-crated on-site. Every item is catalogued, labeled, and documented with the level of detail required for customs declarations and insurance coverage. Packing typically occurs one to two days before your shipment departs.
All required export documentation is prepared and reviewed before the shipment leaves. Your dedicated coordinator confirms all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays at the port of origin.
Shipping, Customs, and Delivery
Once your shipment departs, your coordinator tracks its progress and keeps you updated on transit status. At the destination port, customs clearance is coordinated through our international partners. Any issues or additional documentation requests are handled promptly to minimize delays.
Upon customs clearance, your shipment is delivered to your new address. Our delivery team or our destination partner team places your furniture and boxes as directed, reassembles items that were broken down for transport, and completes a final inventory check with you to confirm everything has arrived in proper condition.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Restricted items vary by destination country and may include certain foods, plants, chemicals, weapons, and high-value items above specific thresholds. Your estimator will review your inventory against your destination’s import regulations and advise on any items that require special handling or documentation.
International move pricing is based on the volume or weight of your shipment, your destination, chosen shipping method (air or sea freight), and any additional services such as packing, crating, or storage. We provide a detailed written estimate after your inventory review.
We monitor your shipment’s progress and work proactively with our destination partners to address any customs issues quickly. If a delay requires extended storage at the destination, we coordinate temporary storage arrangements and keep you informed throughout.
Yes, vehicle shipping can be coordinated as part of your international relocation. Vehicle shipping involves its own documentation and logistics separate from your household goods. Your estimator can provide details and a separate quote for vehicle transport.
Google Rating
Based on 402 reviews
