How an international move works
- Survey and inventory. We list everything that is going, room by room.
- Plan. What goes by sea, what goes by air, and what stays behind.
- Export packing. Strong cartons, layered wrapping and wooden crates for fragile pieces, made for a long journey.
- Documents and export customs. Your papers are checked and the export clearance done in India.
- Shipping. Your goods travel by sea, by air, or part by each.
- Arrival. Customs clearance in the new country and delivery to your new home.
Sea, air or both?
| Option | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Sea freight | Furniture and most household goods | Economical, but takes weeks |
| Air freight | Essentials you need when you land | Fast, but costly per kilo |
| Both | Most families | A few cartons by air, the rest by sea |
Every country has its own rules
Each country decides what you can bring in and on what terms. Food, plants, seeds, medicines and some wooden items are restricted in many places, and a few countries are very strict about anything that could carry pests. We check the rules for your destination before packing, so nothing is held up on arrival.
Before you move abroad
- Start four to eight weeks before your travel date.
- Decide what to ship, sell or give away; shipping costs depend on volume.
- Keep your passport, visa, certificates and valuables with you, not in the shipment.
- Plan for a few weeks without your shipment, with essentials in your luggage or sent by air.
