Best International Moving Companies (2024)
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Planning an international move can be overwhelming. You may need to arrange to move your boxes and furniture onto an air or ocean freighter. You’ll also have to learn and navigate the customs clearance process at your new country’s port of entry. Luckily, some moving companies know the ins and outs of moving internationally and can make the process easier.
International Van Lines tops our list of the best international moving companies because of its extensive partner network, competitive prices for international moves, and comprehensive list of services. Our second pick, American Van Lines, offers background-checked and vetted international moving teams with specialized training. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group rounds out our top three because of its ability to connect you with a partner company that will match your international move’s specific needs and budget.
We completed more than 4,800 hours of research to identify the best moving companies. We also interviewed industry experts, surveyed 1,000 moving customers, and analyzed international moving companies’ service offerings and protection plans. Learn all about our top five favorite international moving companies below.
Best International Moving Companies of 2024
We evaluated professional moving companies on a scale of 0 to 100 and used our strict rating methodology to analyze their international services, insurance policies, online reputation, compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and other factors. Here is our most updated list of the best international moving companies of 2024:
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
- American Van Lines: Best Overall Moving Labor
- Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: Most Efficient
- JK Moving Services: Best Specialized Packing
- Moving APT: Best Customer Service
What Should I Know About International Moving Companies?
Knowing the most vital information concerning international moving companies helps you prepare to negotiate issues with an estimate and avoid scammers. You should know how much movers cost, what moving insurance options international movers offer, and what services you can use.
How Much Does an International Move Cost?
International moving costs vary wildly between moving companies. Getting accurate sample pricing is difficult because of the customs clearance process and other regulations specific to the destination country.
International moving can be especially costly due to shipping and transportation expenses, visa and work permit fees, customs duties, and documentation charges. It’s important to research and understand your destination country’s requirements, budget meticulously, and consider insurance coverage for your belongings during transit. Temporary accommodation upon arrival may also add to your overall relocation costs.
What Is Moving Insurance?
Moving insurance provides financial reimbursement if your belongings get lost, damaged, or destroyed during the moving process. A moving company includes basic coverage by default, but it may not be sufficient to cover the full value of your possessions.
You can opt for additional insurance options, such as full-value protection or released value protection. It’s important to carefully review and understand the terms of your chosen insurance plan to ensure you have the coverage you need. We recommend obtaining a full-value protection plan for an international move because of all the different logistics and unknowns.
What International Moving Services Are Available?
International moving services encompass a range of comprehensive solutions designed to facilitate a seamless relocation. Reputable international moving companies typically offer door-to-door services, handling every moving aspect, from packing at the origin to unpacking at the destination. Professional packing services ensure that belongings are securely wrapped, boxed, and labeled for international shipping, minimizing the risk of damage during transit.
Customs clearance assistance is another essential aspect of international moving services. Experienced movers guide you through the complex process of complying with customs regulations in the destination country, helping to avoid delays and complications. Additionally, these services often include the coordination of transportation, whether by sea, air, or land, considering the specific requirements and logistics of the international move. Some companies also provide storage options to enhance the overall relocation experience, allowing you to store your belongings securely during the transition period.
Compare the Top International Moving Companies
International Van Lines and American Van Lines offer some of the best international moving services, such as vehicle shipping, crating with freighters, and highly comprehensive insurance coverage to make them our top two companies. Learn how all our top picks compare in the table below.
| Company | Logo | Star Rating | BBB Rating | Deposit Required | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | Up to 25% | Get Quote | ||
| A+ | Up to 50% | Get Quote | ||
 | B | Up to 33% | Get Quote | ||
 | A+ | $250 | Read Our Review | ||
 | B+ | Varies | Get Quote |
Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of January 2024.
- Availability: 50 states
- USDOT #: 2293832
International Van Lines (IVL) started as an international mover and expanded to include interstate and local moving services. Founded in 2000, the company continues to make international moves a central part of its business. IVL is a full-service provider, appointing its agents to every phase of the moving process.
Professional movers can help pack your home and crate any high-end items to protect them during transit on a freighter. IVL provides a detailed guide on its website, going over each step of an international move to help you prepare and stay protected.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Hosts helpful online resources about international moves to help you transition to a new home overseas- Accepts multiple payment options for international moves, including PayPal and Zelle
- Can set you up with short- or long-term storage at your destination country
Cons
Requires a deposit before your move date- May be more difficult to book a short-notice move date during busier seasons
- Less accurate online sample prices
International Moving Services
IVL is a full-service mover specializing in international relocations. The company can provide full packing assistance and guide you through the more difficult components of an international move, including customs clearance. IVL also offers an auto transport service in addition to its regular overseas item shipping service. You’ll also find several contents coverage options.
Other international moving services IVL offers include the following:
- Bulky item relocation
- Large vehicle shipping
- Motorcycle shipping
- Piano moving
- Temporary or permanent storage
Cost
The cost for an international move with IVL depends on many of the same factors as a domestic one. You can expect the size and weight of your shipment to factor into the cost, and full-packing services will also add to the total. IVL will add fees for ocean freight, air freight, and port charges, and the number of shipping containers will contribute to the final cost.
- Sample quote: $8,700–$12,500 (three-bedroom move from the United States to Australia)
- Deposit: 25%
- Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card (deposit only), money order, PayPal, Zelle
Reputation and Review
IVL currently holds an A rating on the BBB, but the company isn’t accredited. It’s important to note that accreditation with the BBB requires payment, and some companies decide not to pursue it. Many former customers have praised IVL for its prompt service, but a few have reported service quality issues.
- Availability: 48 states*
- USDOT #: 614506
*American Van Lines is not available in Alaska or Hawaii
American Van Lines is selective in who it hires. It builds teams that average 10 years of moving experience. The company is a moving carrier and uses its trained staff for sales, support, and moving labor. We recommend American Van Lines over IVL for international moves that require a specialized team to handle challenging items, such as antiques.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides fixed-rate moving quotes
- Hires experienced movers who undergo comprehensive screening before employment
- Trains its staff in the proper techniques for moving pianos, fine art, and other high-end items without causing damage
Cons
- Features limited customer service hours
- Doesn’t have a moving calculator to estimate pricing before calling for your quote
- Requires an unusually high deposit compared to competitors
International Moving Services
American Van Lines provides door-to-door service, packing household goods and coordinating shipment and delivery. The movers can also unload and unpack at the destination. American Van Lines trains its teams to handle fragile items without causing damage, using custom crating for protection during international shipments. Climate-controlled storage is also available.
The other services American Van Lines offers for international moves include the following:
- Corporate relocation
- Military relocation
- Online shipment tracking
- Temporary and permanent storage
- White-glove relocation of artwork and antiques
Cost
The distance of your move, the weight of your shipment, and the level of packing assistance you select will determine the base cost of your move. You should anticipate extra fees for international relocation, such as customs charges, depending on the destination country. The insurance option you choose will also factor into the final cost.
We contacted American Van Lines for an international moving quote, but the company couldn’t fulfill our request without more detailed and proper information than we usually provide for our secret shopping process. We respect how American Van Lines declined to give out misleading pricing information.
- Sample quote: N/A
- Deposit: Up to 50% up-front
- Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card, money order, and traveler’s check
Reputation and Review
The company has an A+ rating on its BBB profile, which reflects its dependability and credibility. Former customers have expressed satisfaction with its services, helping the company achieve a 4.04 out of 5-star rating. Many of American Van Lines’ former customers have commended it for its reasonable pricing, but some negative reviews mention unexpected price hikes and communication issues with moving crews.
- Availability: 50 states
- USDOT #: 3034100
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) gears its branding toward domestic moves but is also available to help you relocate to a new country. IMRG is a broker that schedules moves through providers in its nationwide network. An IMRG agent will speak with you to learn about your moving needs, looking to one of its many moving industry partners to fulfill your requested services.
One advantage of operating as a broker is that IMRG can compare quotes to pin down the most affordable rates and can typically schedule your move within a short time frame.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Takes much of the legwork out of the moving process by using the details you provide to find an affordable mover
- Can help you find a provider capable of shipping your vehicle overseas
- Offers to coordinate military moves
Cons
- Has received several Google Reviews mentioning a poor standard of service from some IMRG partners
- Offers no weekend customer service
- Requires 72 hours of notice for cancellations to refund deposits or charges 4% of your total cost
International Moving Services
IMRG partners with many full-service movers, offering a full range of professional packing services. Your IMRG agent will assist with customs clearance and other key planning points for streamlining your international move, and you can even count on it for vehicle shipping.
The company also provides the following for international moves:
- Cleaning
- Junk removal
- Piano moving
Cost
IMRG can collect quotes from several partner companies to help you schedule services at a budget-friendly rate. Industry-standard criteria such as the weight and size of your shipment will determine the baseline cost. The price for specific services will vary among carriers. You will also pay more for shipping a vehicle overseas.
IMRG couldn’t fulfill our request for a quote because of the many factors involved in international moves.
- Sample quote: N/A
- Deposit: Up to 33%
- Payment accepted: Credit card and check
Reputation and Review
IMRG is a moving broker that depends on its partner companies to deliver quality service, which causes it to have mixed reviews online. The BBB doesn’t accredit the company, but it holds a B rating. Customers have appreciated its crews’ professionalism, but some have reported negative experiences regarding bait-and-switch pricing tactics.
- Availability: 50 states
- USDOT #: 1065394
JK Moving Services adapts full-service moves to individual preferences, providing several options for planning a local, long-distance, or international relocation service. Since 1982, the company has served customers across the United States, including major corporations and government officials. JK Moving provides a personal moving coordinator to help you arrange your preferred level of service.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Can coordinate a wide range of services, including residential, government, and corporate relocation
- Has many years of experience with overseas moves and is a top member of the Overseas Moving Network International
- Partners with Enhancify to offer affordable financing options
Cons
- Often features a higher average price for moves than other providers
- Has received negative customer reviews on Yelp, citing poor communication with customer service representatives
- Doesn’t provide online quotes or a moving cost calculator
International Moving Services
JK Moving plans your move according to your preferences, offering full packing and unpacking assistance when requested. A move coordinator will help you manage international shipping logistics, guide you through administrative challenges, and serve as the point of contact for different shipping companies. Additional services include storage options and vehicle shipping.
JK Moving also offers the following services for international relocations:
- Government moves
- Office moves and IT removal
- Shipment tracking
Cost
International moving costs will depend on several factors, including the weight of your shipment. Expect steeper fees for fragile or high-value items that need custom crating. Shipping by ocean freighter will be less expensive than air cargo but will take longer. Vehicle shipping will also add to the total cost, and there may be fees for customs and port entry. JK Moving will provide a moving estimate after conducting an in-home or virtual inventory survey.
- Sample quote: N/A
- Deposit: $250 up-front
- Payment accepted: Cash and credit card
Reputation and Review
JK Moving is a reputable company with an A+ rating from the BBB and high ratings on various review platforms. Its skilled movers and financing options have earned it a 4.45 out of 5-star rating from happy customers. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the variability in quality.
- Availability: 50 states
- USDOT #: 2247863
Moving APT is a broker and coordinator for cross-country moving services but also has international carriers in its network. Moving APT is prompt to respond, asking you for the details about your move and connecting you to carriers with global shipping capabilities. Scheduling is a straightforward process, and you can see what services each available moving company offers before deciding. Moving APT is open seven days a week to answer your questions and assist with any issues.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has a rigorous vetting process for taking on new moving companies as partners
- Works with several well-known national carriers
- Has representatives available 24/7 for customer support
Cons
- Doesn’t have its own trucks or crews, outsourcing all services
- Isn’t responsible for any damage due to broker status
- Won’t refund deposits unless you cancel your move service more than seven days before your pickup date
International Moving Services
A Moving APT moving coordinator will contact you to learn about your inventory and other key details about your move after you request a free moving quote. You’ll then receive correspondence from one or more available movers.
Many companies in Moving APT’s network are full-service providers, offering professional packing services for stress-free moving. Other partners use container shipping, providing transportable containers you load yourself over a few days.
Moving APT can also coordinate the following international services:
- Cleaning services
- Commercial moves
- Shipment tracking
- Temporary and permanent storage
- Vehicle shipping
Cost
Moving APT requires a deposit for brokering moving services. The overall cost of your move will depend on the carrier that performs the service but will include factors such as the weight of the shipment, the distance traveled, and the level of packing assistance. Storage services will also influence the final cost.
- Sample quote: N/A
- Deposit: Varies between partners
- Payment accepted: Cash, check, and money order
Reputation and Review
Moving APT’s BBB page has a B rating without accreditation. However, the company has received a high customer review score of 3.53 out of 5 stars. Customers have praised the company’s resources and quick quotes. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention poor customer service after booking.
What Determines an International Move’s Cost?
Several key factors will influence the cost of your international move, such as if you book in advance, choose add-on services, and move many items. Here is a list of all the factors that will determine your international move’s cost:
- Advance booking: Booking your move at least six weeks to a month in advance will help ensure that you don’t incur higher rates. Some movers will bill higher rates when you book within a week of your move date.
- Add-on services: Added services, such as packing, crating, vehicle shipping, and more, will inflate your cost. These may have flat fees attached or be part of your overall cost. This will depend on the mover you use.
- Customs: Customs duties and taxes in the destination country can contribute significantly to your overall cost. Another factor is the mode of transportation chosen, whether by sea, air, or land. Airfreight is generally faster but more expensive, while sea freight may be a more economical option but requires a longer transit time.
- Insurance: Replacement value protection plans and other moving insurance options protect your items but contribute to the overall price. Higher-value plans cost more. Going without protection saves money but carries financial risks if items are damaged.
- Move distance and shipping weight: One of the primary determinants is the volume and weight of your belongings. Moving more items will mean higher transportation costs because shipping charges are often calculated based on the weight and size of the cargo. The destination and distance to be covered play a crucial role in determining the cost of an international move. Shipping goods to different countries involves varying logistical challenges and transportation expenses.
How Do I Plan and Prepare for an International Move?
You can plan and prepare for an international move by first creating a moving time line. Developing a comprehensive time line outlining all the tasks you must complete before, during, and after your move will keep you on track and ensure you hit all the key steps below.
- Gather important documents: Keep important documents such as passports, visas, and medical records easily accessible. Make copies and store them separately for added security.
- Inventory and downsize: Take inventory of your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This reduces moving costs and ensures you’re not bringing unnecessary items to your new home.
- Research destination country regulations: Start by thoroughly researching the regulations and requirements of the destination country. This includes visa and work permit information, customs duties, and any restrictions on certain items.
- Research moving companies: Assemble a list of reputable companies serving your area. The FMCSA is a great government resource to find a company’s insurance information and see whether it has any active red flags, such as revoked licensing. You should ask about the company’s licensing information for international moves, including whether it has licensing through the Federal Maritime Commission as an Ocean Transportation Intermediary to ship via ocean freight. Also, ask about logistics management to learn whether a company will assist with customs clearance and other potential challenges.
- Get quotes and book your move: Get quotes from all of the moving companies you’re considering six weeks to one month ahead of your move date. Aim to book your move at least a month in advance. Get copies of your moving contract when you confirm your move date. Also, read the FMCSA’s Rights and Responsibilities documentation; your mover should provide you with a copy.
- Plan for temporary accommodation and storage: If necessary, arrange for temporary accommodation upon arrival at the destination. This provides a buffer while you settle into your new surroundings.
- Set up financial and utility services: Inform banks, utility providers, and other relevant institutions about your move. Set up or cancel services as needed and ensure that financial matters are in order.
Our Conclusion
Moving abroad takes extra effort compared to a domestic move, and knowing where to begin is tough. Based on our research, International Van Lines is a great choice for coordinating your international move to save you the hassle. The company has a helpful checklist for pre-move planning and a detailed guide for tailoring an international move to your needs. The company started in international logistics and has substantial experience moving customers overseas.
American Van Lines is another great choice with its experienced international moving crews and custom crating for fragile items. We also like how Interstate Moving & Relocation Group works with international carriers to offer affordable moving services and typically has a prompt booking process.
Take the time to compare quotes among three or more providers. You should read customer reviews and review each company’s licensing information before deciding on an international mover.
FAQ About the Best International Moving Companies
What should I do before I move abroad?
Work on getting all your necessary documents in order before you move abroad. This includes your passport and various forms of identification, medical records, Social Security card, and birth certificate. You should also check vaccine requirements for your destination country and apply for a visa if necessary. Check out our checklist for moving abroad to ensure you’re fully prepared for your international move.
Do I need insurance for international moving?
You need insurance to protect your shipment from the costs associated with lost and damaged belongings. Ask your moving company about insurance options and costs for additional coverage.
What should I know when packing for an international move?
Remember that downsizing when packing for your international move will make for fewer logistical challenges and may cut shipping costs due to needing fewer containers.
How do I ship my belongings overseas?
You’ll need to hire an international moving company to ship your belongings overseas. An international moving company can coordinate each step of the shipping process, managing logistics from origin to destination.
Our Rating Methodology
We back up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling options, additional benefits and custom service options, and reputation among customers to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
