Is it worth shipping furniture internationally?

Usually not. Furniture is bulky, expensive to ship, and often doesn't fit new spaces or electrical standards. Sell furniture locally and buy new at your destination unless pieces have significant sentimental or monetary value.

How much can I save by packing myself?

Professional packing typically costs $1,500-3,000. If you pack yourself, you save that cost but take on liability for damage. Most people save money by packing non-fragile items themselves and paying professionals for electronics and dishes.

What's the cheapest way to ship just a few boxes?

International postal services are cheapest for small shipments under 50 pounds. Expect $80-200 per box depending on destination and speed. Private couriers like DHL or FedEx cost more but offer better tracking and insurance.

Can I ship my car internationally?

Yes, but it typically costs $1,500-5,000 depending on destination. Factor in import duties (often 25-50% of car value) and potential modification costs for local safety standards. Usually cheaper to sell and buy locally.

How to Save Money on International Moving Costs

Cut international moving costs by decluttering ruthlessly before you move, comparing multiple shipping methods, and timing your move during off-peak seasons. The biggest savings come from reducing volume — every cubic foot you don't ship saves $15-30.

Calculate your break-even point. List everything you own and its replacement cost. If an item costs less than $200 to replace and weighs more than 20 pounds, leave it behind. This includes most furniture, books, and kitchen appliances.
Get quotes 8-12 weeks before moving. Contact at least 5 international moving companies for detailed quotes. Prices vary wildly — we've seen quotes for the same move range from $3,200 to $8,900. Request both sea freight and air freight options.
Choose your shipping method strategically. Sea freight costs $1,500-4,000 but takes 4-8 weeks. Air freight costs $4,000-12,000 but takes 3-7 days. For most people, sea freight makes sense unless you need items immediately.
Pack smart to minimize volume. Vacuum-seal clothes and linens to reduce volume by 50%. Remove all packaging from electronics. Fill hollow items like pots with smaller items. Every cubic foot you save reduces costs by $15-30.
Handle customs paperwork yourself. Learn your destination's customs requirements and prepare documents yourself instead of paying the moving company $300-800 to do it. Most countries publish clear guides for personal imports.
Time your move for off-peak seasons. Move between October-March when possible. Summer moves cost 20-40% more due to demand from families with school-age children. Avoid December entirely — holiday surcharges can add $1,000+.
Consider partial self-service options. Some companies offer 'you pack, we ship' services that cost 30-50% less than full-service moves. You handle packing and local delivery, they handle international transport and customs.

Is it worth shipping furniture internationally?: Usually not. Furniture is bulky, expensive to ship, and often doesn't fit new spaces or electrical standards. Sell furniture locally and buy new at your destination unless pieces have significant sentimental or monetary value.
How much can I save by packing myself?: Professional packing typically costs $1,500-3,000. If you pack yourself, you save that cost but take on liability for damage. Most people save money by packing non-fragile items themselves and paying professionals for electronics and dishes.
What's the cheapest way to ship just a few boxes?: International postal services are cheapest for small shipments under 50 pounds. Expect $80-200 per box depending on destination and speed. Private couriers like DHL or FedEx cost more but offer better tracking and insurance.
Can I ship my car internationally?: Yes, but it typically costs $1,500-5,000 depending on destination. Factor in import duties (often 25-50% of car value) and potential modification costs for local safety standards. Usually cheaper to sell and buy locally.