Moving overseas for work, study, or retirement can be a very exciting time in your life. You’ll be joining the more than 8.7 million Americans who have made their homes in other countries, either temporarily or permanently.

Relocating to another country does not have to mean building a new home from scratch! International shipping is a great way to keep your cherished possessions and enjoy them in your new location. But for many people, it’s a daunting process.

Let’s clear up some of the mystery around international shipping. Read on for the answers to the 10 most frequently asked international shipping questions. 

1. What Items Can I Ship Internationally?

The good news is that you can ship most personal and household items internationally. This includes furniture, clothing, and other household items. 

Before packing for your move, it’s a good idea to declutter. That way you won’t pay to take things with you that you don’t need at the other end. 

2. What Items Can’t I Ship Internationally?

There are several items that are restricted during international shipping. The great thing is that these are items you’re unlikely to want to take anyway. 

You’ve probably seen most of these items before boarding a flight at the airport. Think illegal substances, flammable items, weapons, toxic chemicals, and paints. Alcohol, prescription drugs, and tobacco products are also prohibited.

3. Do Countries Set Their Own Restrictions?

Yes, they do! It’s important to talk to your shipping agent before planning your move to find out what you can and cannot ship to your destination. Some of these are quite obvious, but others are not so.

Take for example anyone thinking of moving to Tunisia. Did you know that a pack of pencils could land you in serious trouble? That’s right, there’s a ban on importing pencils into Tunisia.

Are you moving abroad with kids? If Italy is your destination, be careful with their toys. You can only bring wooden toys into Italy, according to their customs laws. 

4. Do I Need to Drop Off and Collect My Belongings?

At EuroUSA Shipping, we offer different options to suit our clients’ needs and budgets.

If you do not have furniture or other bulky items, you may be able to pack and unpack the container yourself. Talk to us about whether this is an option for you.

We also offer a door-to-door overseas moving service that takes all the hassle out of moving. You simply pack up your personal items, and we collect them from your home. The next time you see them will be when they are delivered to your new home overseas.

5. What Are Tariffs?

Each country can impose tariffs, a type of tax, on goods that are being imported into their country.

Some countries may have very low tariffs and fees when you are bringing personal items into the country for your own use. However, it’s very important to ask your shipping agent about the tariffs and fees you will have to pay to receive your items.

You should also complete all customs paperwork in full before shipping internationally. This will save confusion and delays in the next country. 

6. Why Do I Need an Itemized List?

Moving internationally is sadly a little more complicated than moving interstate.

When packing boxes to ship, you need to make an itemized list of every item it contains. This takes time, but it’s vital. The boxes will be x-rayed at the other end and the contents need to match your list.

Providing an itemized list ensures there are no nasty surprises on the other side. It allows EuroUSA Shipping to calculate customs costs accurately.

7. How Much Does International Shipping Cost?

The cost of international shipping depends on a number of factors. 

This includes the items that you want to send, and whether you need to pay any tariffs and fees. Also, how much you are sending and your final destination will impact the final amount you pay.

The best way to find out the costs for your move is to use our volume estimator. This will give you a good idea of the volume of items you want to ship, and you can then use this to request a quote from us. 

8. Do I Need Insurance?

Yes, you do. International shipping can take its toll, and some items may become damaged during the move. 

Taking out the correct insurance for your belongings will give you peace of mind. While accidents and breakages can happen, at least you know that you are financially protected against the loss.

For more international shipping help, talk to the EuroUSA Shipping team about any questions. 

9. How Long Does International Shipping Take?

This depends on how much you are transporting, the final destination, and the type of shipping you choose. If you choose air freight, it will be faster. You may have your items within days. But the flipside is that it’s much more expensive.

Shipping your personal items by boat is cheaper but it takes longer. Depending on your destination, it could take weeks to arrive. 

A good compromise could be to send some essentials by air, and then wait for your other items to come by boat. 

10. Can I Track My Shipment?

Yes, you can.

At EuroUSA Shipping, we always know where your belongings are at every stage of the journey. If you have any questions, simply contact us for an update. 

International Shipping – A Great Start to Life Overseas

Using international shipping to move your worldly goods from the US to your new location helps you to make a smooth transition. 

You don’t have to worry about furnishing and supplying items for your new home. No need to start assembling a new wardrobe. You’ll have all your things with you in a short amount of time.

At EuroUSA International Movers, we specialize in making international moves as easy as possible. We also believe in providing an affordable service that can be customized to meet your needs.

Give us a call on (843) 225-7217 or complete our online inquiry form to get a free moving quote today!