Moving is stressful and costly and requires good planning. If you decide to relocate to the USA, a shipping company will greatly reduce the stress of moving your belongings internationally, as they will coordinate both the removal of your things and all documents needed to clear customs. Be aware that recent trends in global logistics have seen rising international moving costs due to rising fuel prices, so prepare for higher prices than in the past. It is also recommended that expats use carriers affiliated with the International Federation of International Movers (FIDI).
Shipping your belongings to the US
Once you've chosen a removal company, they will come to your home for an estimate or quote. To ensure an accurate estimate, it is important to go through your belongings and separate what you'll be bringing with you before they arrive. Make sure to point out items that may require special care. Specify what you will do yourself, such as dismantling furniture. Before removal, you will also need to provide a comprehensive list of items and their value. This is a requirement for insurance and customs forms. Be aware that you must also declare any battery-powered devices or lithium batteries, which are subject to strict international transport rules.
Regarding the estimate, there are several pieces of information to be considered:
- Origin address—where removers will pack and load your belongings.
- Destination address in the USA—where removers will unload your belongings.
- Volume or weight of your belongings.
- Type of transportation (by air, train, truck, or ship).
- Nature of the services, terms and conditions, and insurance policy in case of damage.
- Prices and payment plans.
Accordingly, an insurance policy will be recommended by the removal company. There are different levels of insurance, but comprehensive usually covers non-predictable loss or damage, damage or loss caused by shipping delays, container incidents, or extreme weather events. The cost of the policy depends on the overall value of your belongings, and a certificate will be issued upon agreement of the cost.
On the scheduled date, your things will be packaged and removed from your home. Before removal, you will sign an official shipping document with a comprehensive list of your goods called a waybill (signing can usually be done electronically). This document will specify all terms and conditions of the contract: the mode of transportation, the volume to be transported, as well as the name and address of both the customer and removal company. By signing the waybill, you are agreeing to these terms and conditions and giving permission to the removal company to proceed with your shipment. You will be asked to sign it again upon receipt of your goods at your destination address.
Usually, removal companies unload your belongings directly at the destination address. However, some removal companies unload your belongings to a warehouse, and you have to pick them up yourself afterwards, implying additional costs. Make sure to check your moving contract carefully and read the terms and conditions carefully. Many movers now provide shipment-tracking apps so you can follow your container's progress in real time.
Customs and entry regulations in the US
When planning your shipment, ensure your moving company complies with any US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) filing requirements and make sure you are not shipping any prohibited and restricted items. Customs regulations can vary depending on your port of entry, and many forms are now processed digitally through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system. You can check the latest information on the official US CBP “Bringing Personal Effects to the U.S.” page for guidance on restricted goods.
Before you move to the US: a checklist
A well-planned move can save you time and money and, perhaps most importantly, help you avoid stress. Before you relocate, consider doing the following:
- Check insurance exclusions related to extreme weather, which have become more common due to hurricanes and wildfires.
- Confirm your mover offers real-time tracking through an app or online platform. This can help put your mind at rest.
- Get multiple quotes from movers affiliated with FIDI and the International Association of Movers (IAM), and then make a well-informed choice.
- Double-check that your shipment and customs documents are filed electronically in advance of your move.
Useful links:
International Federation of International Movers (FIDI)
International Association of Movers (IAM)
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