International Moving Costs: 9 Things You Can't Ignore

Moving can be a pretty exciting experience for many of us, while it can be an emotional one for others. Especially if you are crossing borders, it does not only mean a change of scenery; it means a change of language, culture, friends, family, etc.

Whether you are making this move due to career choices or family reasons, the impact still stays the same, i.e.; it costs you a lot of money!

What people do is usually sell a lot of stuff before their international move. However, if you like to hang on to your belongings, you might be looking at a hefty cost for moving that little piece of furniture across the world.

Let us help you make smart moving decisions by considering the costs you might incur while making your international move.

1. Transportation Cost

Let's start with the number one international moving cost that will make a dent in your pocket – the cost of transporting your belongings from one country to another. You can skip this cost entirely if you choose to take only what's in your suitcase, but that may not be possible.

In lieu of that, ask yourself what stuff do you need to bring with you and what you can leave behind. I recommend using KonMari Method to sort your belongings into essentials and non-essentials. It will reduce your cost considerably.

So when assessing the cost of the move, talk to more than one company and compare the cost based on the following elements:

Consider the size and weight of your moving material

The cost of moving depends on the weight and volume of your material. Generally, movers charge by volume; the heavier the material, the more it will cost to move it. Here are a few tips to help you reduce the cost:

• The method of transportation can help you reduce a lot of your expenses. Airfreight is more expensive as compared to shipping via sea. Choose an international moving company offer both options.
• Which port will your shipment arrive at? Custom clearance charges can vary from port to port. You can choose a destination that requires less custom.
• Avail Groupon services. Just like the name suggests, you can partner with other people sending their belongings to the same destination as you to share and reduce the cost of shipment.

Consider the distance you are traveling

The cost of transportation differs according to distance and destination as well. Usually, the more the distance, the higher the cost. Therefore, consider getting sea freight for longer distances and compare the prices and deals of various companies to make the best choice for yourself.

2. Cost of Packing

While shipping is one thing, do not underestimate the cost of packing as well. A lot of moving companies charge extra for packing your stuff, which is why a lot of people end up doing their own packing. However, getting material for international shipping, such as crates, packing material, etc., is still expensive.

I recommend that you get your stuff packed by the moving company after negotiating the price. If you are lucky, your moving company may offer discounted or free packing services. It's best to discuss packing and loading costs before signing the agreement.

3. Insurance Cost

International moving comes with risks; your belongings can get lost or damaged during transit. Therefore, make sure to choose a moving company that offers international transit insurance.

Take a look at insurance costs of major shipping companies of the U.S.A. and U.K. Typically; the insurance cost ranges around; $100, £75, or €90. But a lot of this also depends on the value, weight, and face value of the item you are shipping.

4. Custom Duty and Charges

Custom duties and Charges are taxes levied as per the rules and regulations of a particular country. For Example, the U.S.A. allows household goods to be moved without any duties. However, the case is not the same in the U.K. A lot of countries will charge you duties on the shipment of electronic items, so depending on the country to country, you need to check what charges are applicable.

5. Storage Costs

Sometimes your item might reach the place of destination later than expected or earlier, for that matter! In that case, you need to figure out where that item will be stored. Most moving companies offer short and long-term storage facilities. The companies usually hide these costs because no one thinks that far ahead. But not you, now you can discuss storage prices with your moving company beforehand.

You can thank us later for this.

6. Visa & Immigration Fees

When you are moving to any country, you require a visa; this can be a work visa, permanent visa, temporary visa, etc. Depending on the visa and your intent to travel, your moving cost might not be that much. The cost is less for work or travel visas, whereas it costs more to apply for immigration. Similarly, if you are just one person, the costs may be easier to bear. But, if you are moving with family and kids, you have to consider applying visa fees for all, ticket fees, etc.

7. Legal Fees

A lot of people are unaware of how to deal with visa applications or fill those forms of custom duties, wherein comes the role of a lawyer. If you are taking the help of a lawyer, you will be incurring legal fees. Although it may seem like a hassle, it is best to get a lawyer because you are dealing with the law of two countries, so it might get a bit complicated.

8. Residential Housing Costs

So as soon as you land in the destination country, you have to figure out your residential situation. This would mean rental amount or just plain other expenses as well. You also have to consider property taxes and all sorts of other kinds of fees in the country you are moving to. Some moving companies charge extra to help you find work, schools, and homes in your new country. Best discuss this with them before moving too!

9. Delivery Costs

Now you have arrived in the new country, and your belongings have arrived too. How will they get from the port or air cargo to your home? Moving trucks, that's how! And yes, you guessed it, those cost money.

Most moving companies provide free delivery services in destination countries. You should choose a company that offers free or at least discounted delivery to avoid this cost.

Now You Know All About the 9 Key International Moving Costs 

Now that you know all the hidden costs that might come your way while making the big move, I think you are all set.  All you have to do is take into account the shipping cost, transportation cost, visa, legal fees, customs duties and taxes, storage cost, insurance cost, packaging cost, etc.

With all this information under your belt, you will be able to reduce your moving costs considerably!