Planning an international move can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to shipping your household goods.
Whether you’re moving from the USA to another country or bringing your belongings into the States, you probably have plenty of questions about costs, customs, shipping methods, and timelines.
The good news? You’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the most common questions about international household shipping and answered them in simple, straightforward language — so you can plan your move with confidence.
1. How much does it cost to ship household goods from the USA?
This is the first question almost everyone asks — and for good reason. Cost is the biggest factor when planning an international move.
The price to ship your household goods from the USA depends on a few key things:
- Destination country: Shipping to nearby regions (like Canada or Mexico) is usually cheaper than long-distance routes (like Australia or Asia).
- Shipment size: A small apartment might fit in a shared 20ft container, while a large home could need a full 40ft container.
- Shipping method: Sea freight is the most economical option for large moves. Air freight is faster but can cost several times more.
- Service type: Door-to-door services cost more than port-to-port because they include pickup, delivery, and customs handling.
- Season & port fees: Prices can vary based on time of year and local port charges.
Quick Estimate:
- Small move (1-bedroom): $1,500 – $3,000 by sea
- Medium move (2–3 bedrooms): $3,000 – $6,000
- Full home (4+ bedrooms): $6,000 – $10,000+
- By air: Typically 3–5x higher than sea freight
Pro Tip: Always request a detailed quote that includes packing, customs, port fees, and insurance — these extras can add up fast.
2. How long does it take to ship household goods internationally from the USA?
Quick Answer:
Shipping household goods from the USA usually takes 2 to 8 weeks by sea and 3 to 7 days by air, depending on destination, customs, and service type.
Detailed Explanation:
The delivery time for international household shipments depends on a few factors:
- Destination country: Shorter routes (like USA–Europe) are faster than trans-Pacific routes (like USA–Australia).
Shipping method:
- Sea freight – Typically 2–8 weeks, depending on the port and route.
- Air freight – 5–10 days, including customs clearance.
- Customs and port handling: Some countries have longer inspection times, which can add a few extra days.
- Type of service: Door-to-door moves take a bit longer than port-to-port because of pickup, delivery, and local transport coordination.
Pro Tip: If you’re moving under a strict timeline (e.g., job start or visa date), book at least 8–10 weeks in advance to avoid delays and get better rates.
3. What items are prohibited from international shipping from the USA?
Quick Answer:
- Every country has its own list of restricted or prohibited items.
- Commonly banned goods include weapons, flammable materials, perishables, and certain electronics.
- It’s essential to check each destination’s regulations before shipping.
Detailed Explanation:
- When shipping household goods from the USA, you can’t just pack everything you own. Customs authorities in each destination have strict rules about what’s allowed in — even for personal effects.
- Some items are completely prohibited, while others require special permits or declarations.
- Below is a country-specific overview of what’s generally not allowed when shipping household goods internationally from the USA
Pro Tip: Never pack valuables, cash, or documents in your shipment. Keep them with you during travel — they’re often excluded from insurance coverage.
Quick Takeaway:
- Each country enforces different restrictions.
- When in doubt, ask your mover for a customs compliance checklist before packing.
- It saves time, money, and stress at destination ports.
4. Do I need to pay customs duty on used household goods?
Quick Answer:
- Yes — customs duty is mandatory when shipping household goods internationally, even if the items are used.
- The amount you pay depends on the declared value, type of goods, and destination country’s import regulations.
Detailed Explanation:
- When you move household goods from or to the USA, customs authorities in both countries will assess your shipment and calculate duties and taxes.
- There are no full exemptions, but you may qualify for reduced rates in certain cases (for example, returning residents or long-term relocations).
Customs duty ensures that imported items comply with local laws and that taxes are collected on goods entering the country. It’s calculated based on:
- Declared value of your items (usually assessed by customs)
- Type of goods (electronics, furniture, appliances, etc.)
- Shipping method (air or sea)
💬 Pro Tip: Always ask your mover for a customs pre-estimate before shipping. Under-declaring value can cause delays or penalties at destination ports.
5. Should I ship by air or sea for household goods?
Quick Answer:
- Both options work — but sea freight is usually the best choice for large moves because it’s much more affordable.
- Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive, so it’s ideal only for smaller shipments or urgent deliveries.
Detailed Explanation:
- When shipping household goods internationally, one of the biggest decisions is choosing how to ship — by air or by sea.
- Both methods have pros and cons, depending on your budget, timeline, and shipment size.
Here’s a simple breakdown 👇
Pro Tip: If you’re shipping a full household, sea freight offers the best value. If you’re relocating temporarily or only sending essentials, air freight can save time — but expect higher costs.
6. How do I pack furniture for international shipping?
Quick Answer:
- To safely ship furniture overseas, use strong, moisture-resistant packing materials, disassemble large pieces, and label everything clearly.
- Proper packing prevents damage during long-distance transport and customs inspection.
Detailed Explanation:
- International shipping involves long transit times, multiple handling points, and exposure to different climates — so good packing is essential.
- Whether you pack yourself or hire professionals, the goal is to protect your items from impact, humidity, and shifting inside the container.
Here’s how to do it right 👇
🔹 Step-by-Step Furniture Packing Tips
- Disassemble large items – Remove legs, drawers, and glass parts. Keep screws and bolts in labeled bags.
- Wrap carefully – Use bubble wrap, moving blankets, or foam padding around all surfaces.
- Use sturdy boxes or crates – Avoid flimsy cardboard. For valuable pieces, consider custom wood crating.
- Seal and label clearly – Mark boxes with contents, destination room, and “Fragile” labels.
- Protect against moisture – Line boxes with plastic sheeting or desiccant packs to avoid mold during sea transit.
- Don’t overload – Heavy boxes are more likely to split open; distribute weight evenly.
- Document your items – Take photos and an inventory list before shipping for insurance and customs clearance.
Pro Tip: Professional international movers use ISPM-15 certified wooden crates — these meet global shipping standards and are accepted at all customs ports.
Quick Takeaway:
Disassemble, wrap, and label everything carefully. The better your packing, the lower your risk of breakage or moisture damage during long-distance shipping
7. What size container do I need for my home?
Quick Answer:
Most households ship their belongings in either a 20-foot or 40-foot container. A 20ft container suits a small 1–2-bedroom home, while a 40ft container fits a 3–4-bedroom home or larger.
Detailed Explanation:
- Choosing the right container size is key to saving money and ensuring your items arrive safely.
- Too small — and you’ll run out of space. Too large — and you’ll pay for unused capacity.
- You can choose between FCL (Full Container Load) for private use or LCL (Less than Container Load) for sharing space with others.
Here’s a quick comparison 👇
How to Choose:
- Small move (studio / 1BR): Shared container (LCL) or 20ft.
- Medium move (2–3BR): 20ft or small 40ft.
- Large home (4+ BR): 40ft or high cube container.
- Vehicle + furniture: Usually needs a 40ft container.
Pro Tip: Ask your mover for a volume assessment — they’ll measure your shipment in cubic feet or cubic meters to recommend the most cost-effective option.
Quick Takeaway:
Use a 20ft container for small homes and a 40ft container for larger moves or vehicles. If you’re only shipping a few items, choose a shared (LCL) shipment to save costs.
8. Do I need insurance for international household goods shipping?
Quick Answer:
Yes — you should always get insurance when shipping household goods internationally. It protects your belongings from loss or damage caused by handling, weather, or transit delays.
Detailed Explanation:
- Even with professional packing and careful handling, international shipping involves multiple stages — loading, ocean or air transit, customs inspections, and final delivery.
- Each stage carries some risk of damage, delay, or loss.
- That’s why cargo insurance is essential. It’s not just an add-on — it’s your safety net.
Types of insurance
Common Exclusions
Insurance typically does not cover:
- Pre-existing damage or poor packing
- Normal wear and tear
- Perishable goods
- Jewelry, cash, or personal documents
- Delays not caused by carrier negligence
Pro Tip: Take photos of your packed items and keep an inventory list before pickup — it speeds up any future claim process.
Quick Takeaway:
Always insure your shipment. Choose all-risk coverage for maximum protection and keep documentation handy in case you need to file a claim.
9. What documents do I need for international household goods shipping?
Quick Answer:
To ship household goods internationally, you’ll need a few key documents — mainly to prove ownership, declare the value of your items, and clear customs smoothly.
Detailed Explanation:
Documentation is one of the most important parts of the shipping process. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay your shipment at customs or even result in additional charges.
Here’s what you’ll typically need when shipping from or to the USA:
- Passport and Visa Copy – Confirms your identity and purpose of move (residence, work, study, etc.).
- Packing List / Inventory – A detailed list of every item in your shipment, including approximate values and quantities.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – The official shipping document issued by your carrier. It confirms that your goods are loaded and details the shipment route.
- Customs Declaration Form – Lists the contents and value of your items for import/export clearance.
- Insurance Certificate – Proof of coverage for loss or damage during transit.
- Proof of Address or Residence – Some countries require verification of your new or old residence to confirm eligibility for relocation.
- Purchase Receipts (for high-value items) – Used for customs valuation if there’s any question about declared prices.
- And, more.
Pro Tip: Always keep both digital and printed copies of your documents. Customs officials may ask for originals or stamped versions, especially for large shipments.
Quick Takeaway:
Keep your documents ready and organized — passport, packing list, bill of lading, and customs forms are essential for a smooth, delay-free shipment.
10. Can I ship my car along with household goods?
Quick Answer:
Yes — you can ship your car together with your household goods, but it must be properly declared and packed inside a 40ft container or shipped separately using RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) service.
Detailed Explanation:
Many people prefer to ship their vehicle and personal belongings together to save time and cost. However, combining them in one shipment requires special documentation, secure packing, and compliance with customs rules in both countries.
There are two main options for vehicle shipping:
Container Shipping:
- Your car is loaded inside a 40ft container, often with your furniture or boxes.
- It offers better protection from weather and handling.
- The vehicle is secured using straps and wooden blocks to prevent movement.
- Suitable if you’re shipping a car plus household goods together.
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off):
- Your car is driven directly onto a special vessel designed for vehicles.
- It’s cheaper than a container but used only for cars — no household items allowed.
- Ideal for single-car shipments without furniture.
Important to Know:
- The car must be clean and empty (no personal belongings inside).
- You’ll need the original title, registration, and ID proof to clear customs.
- Most countries charge import duty and taxes on vehicles separately from household goods.
- Vehicles may need to meet emission or safety standards at the destination.
Pro Tip: Always confirm with your mover if your chosen route allows mixed shipments (car + furniture). Some ports have strict separation rules for safety reasons.
Quick Takeaway:
You can ship your car with your household goods using a 40ft container, but follow customs and safety rules carefully. If you only need to ship the car, RoRo is simpler and more cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Shipping your household goods internationally, whether you’re leaving the USA or moving in doesn’t have to be complicated.
Once you understand the basics of cost, customs, packing, and insurance, the process becomes much easier to manage.
The key is preparation. Start early, research the regulations for your destination, choose the best international freight forwarder and make sure your documents are complete before your shipment leaves port.
Every country has its own customs process, so being organized helps you avoid unnecessary delays and extra costs.
Working with an experienced international moving or freight forwarding company can make a big difference too. A trusted logistics partner will:
- Help you choose the right shipping method (air, sea, or shared container).
- Ensure your belongings are professionally packed and insured.
- Handle customs paperwork and guide you through clearance smoothly.
- Keep you updated with real-time tracking and delivery timelines.
Remember, international relocation isn’t just about moving things — it’s about moving your life. Taking the time to plan, document, and protect your belongings ensures everything reaches your new home safely and securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose a reliable international freight forwarder?
Look for companies that are licensed, insured, and experienced in household moves — not just commercial freight. Read reviews, ask for references, and compare at least two or three quotes before deciding.
Tip: Choose a forwarder who offers door-to-door service and customs assistance — it saves a lot of time and stress.
2. Door-to-door vs port-to-port — which is better?
Door-to-door shipping means your mover handles everything from pickup to delivery at your new home. Port-to-port is cheaper but requires you to manage local transport and customs on both ends.
Tip: If you’re relocating your entire household, door-to-door is usually worth the extra cost.
3. What happens if my shipment is delayed at customs?
Customs delays are common — often caused by missing paperwork or random inspections. Your mover or freight forwarder will update you and help resolve it.
Tip: Always keep copies of your documents ready and respond quickly to any customs inquiries to minimize delays.
4. Can I track my household goods shipment?
Yes! Most international movers offer online tracking systems that show real-time updates — from departure to arrival.
Tip: Ask for your container number or bill of lading number to track your shipment on the carrier’s portal.
5. What’s the cheapest way to ship a small amount of furniture internationally?
For smaller moves, use LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping. You only pay for the space you use inside a shared container.
Tip: Combine your boxes or furniture into one shipment — it’s more affordable than multiple small parcels.