International Moves

Choosing a qualified mover with years of international moving experience is the first and most important step when moving to another country.  Remember you are not just moving your belongings from one place to another, you are moving to a new country and you may encounter different regulations, customs, taxes etc.

Moving to or from the continental United States is what most movers consider an international move.  That means international moves include Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico.  International shipments have very specific rules and requirements and which must be followed. Most destination countries require detailed documentation of your passport, visa, domical information and itemized inventories with serial numbers of your shipment. 

United States Van Lines has an experienced and fully trained international moving staff.  We are able to prepare you for what will occur during the course of your move. 

Your moving consultant will prepare a written estimate based on either the space used or the weight of your items.  Accurate estimating depends on the level of detail given to the moving consultant during this process, the more accurate the details, the more accurate the estimate.  Your estimate will include wrapping your furniture in paper pads and cardboard to prevent damage.  Your moving consultant will also discuss insurance options with you to ensure that your possessions are protected during transport.  Though it is not likely anything will happen, insurance gives you the security and peace-of-mind you may need for your international move.  Once loaded, your shipment will travel by truck to the port where it will await the next shipping vessel to your final destination. Please keep in mind most shipments require four to six weeks travel time. 

Customs clearance can be an unfamiliar process.  We will take care of all necessary clearances and documentation so that you can relax because you have someone to rely on. 

International General Tips

• Discuss with your moving consultant additional services you may want to include in your move (packing, insurance, crating services etc.).  You will have a written estimate for the services you discussed and on moving day only those services are included in the cost outlined.
• Packing of plants and food is prohibited.  Do not pack personal items, like passports, airline tickets, jewelry, coins, prescriptions and clearly mark the items that you don’t want loaded onto the truck.  
• Designate a point of contact on moving day as the movers may have questions that will require immediate answers. 
• Don't make travel plans for packing, move out, move in or unpacking day. Plan on being occupied the entire day.   
• Make sure to keep a contact phone number available so our movers and office staff can keep in contact with you throughout the move. 
• Contact your moving consultant immediately after your arrive at destination, as failure to make contact may delay your shipment