International & Overseas Removals
Typically 4-12+ weeks lead time depending on destination and method
Pros
- Sea freight is usually far more cost-effective for a full household’s worth of belongings
- Shared-container options exist for smaller loads, splitting cost with other shipments
Cons
- Lead times are much longer than domestic moves — customs delays can add further unpredictability
- Import rules vary significantly by destination country and are easy to get wrong without local expertise
About International & Overseas Removals
Moving belongings overseas usually comes down to a choice between sea freight (a shipping container — cheaper, but typically 4-12 weeks transit depending on destination, plus port and customs processing time) and air freight (much faster, often days, but priced by weight and considerably more expensive — generally only cost-effective for smaller, urgent shipments). Customs paperwork is a genuine complication that domestic moves don’t have: you’ll typically need an inventory and valuation list, and destination countries have their own import rules — some restrict or tax certain items, and some require proof of residency to import used goods duty-free — so a firm experienced with your specific destination matters more here than general reputation alone.
How this works
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pay import duty on my own belongings?
It depends on the destination country and your visa or residency status — many countries allow duty-free import of used personal effects if you’re relocating permanently, but the proof required varies, so confirm the exact requirements for your destination before shipping, ideally with the mover’s customs team.
Are you a removals company yourselves?
No — Compare House Movers is an independent comparison and information service. We recommend checking whether a firm is a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR) before booking — BAR members must meet a code of practice and offer access to an advance payment guarantee scheme, which matters given deposits are often paid upfront for removals.
Is all the pricing on this site guaranteed?
No — costs mentioned are typical ranges reported by trade sources, not fixed quotes. Always get itemised quotes from more than one removal firm before committing, and check exactly what’s included.
What happens after I request a quote?
We look for a removal firm who covers your area to arrange a proper survey (in-person or video) — there’s no obligation to proceed with any quote.
Request a removals quote
Free and no obligation. Tell us about your move and we will look for a removal firm that covers your area.