Edit before you pack.
Walk room by room and decide what to ship, sell, donate or keep with you. Measure large furniture and consider whether it fits your new home. Less to move means less to organize.
A practical guide to a fresh startA new country.
A new country.
A new chapter.
A little guidance.
Moving abroad comes with big possibilities—and plenty of questions. Start here for thoughtful tips, useful checklists, and a clearer path from “where do I begin?” to “we’re on our way.”
Start with the essentials ↓Presented by 
LESS GUESSWORK.
MORE POSSIBILITY.
MORE POSSIBILITY.
A NOTE FOR YOUR NEXT CHAPTERYou don’t have to figure it all out at once.
01 / Before the boxesA smoother move starts
A smoother move starts
with a little preparation.
You don’t need every answer today. Focus on the decisions that shape your shipment, your budget, and your first few weeks overseas.
Make your inventory count.
List what you intend to ship and photograph valuable or fragile pieces. Tell your mover about stairs, narrow access, oversized items and anything needing special handling.
Plan your arrival, too.
Keep passports, key documents, valuables and travel essentials with you. Build a practical plan for the time between your own arrival and delivery of your belongings.
The question that saves surprises:
“Can you show me exactly what’s included—and what may cost extra?” Compare packing, pickup, destination handling, clearance assistance, storage and delivery on the same basis.
Your first stepsSmall tasks.
Small tasks.
Real progress.
Use this quick checklist to get organized. Your selections stay in this browser when storage is available.
0 of 6 readyA planning aid for your own timeline.
02 / Choose with confidence
The right company makes room for your questions.
A useful quote is only the beginning. Look for clear explanations, a defined service scope, and people who help you understand the journey.
Use these five checks when comparing international movers.
Relevant credentials you can verify
For ocean shipments to or from the United States, check the company’s status with the Federal Maritime Commission. Confirm which business is contracting with you and arranging the ocean transport.
A written quote with a clear scope
Ask for a survey-based estimate. Compare inclusions, exclusions, shipment measurements and possible destination charges—not just the headline price.
A clear plan at both ends
Ask who handles pickup, shipment updates, destination clearance and delivery. Clarify your own responsibilities before the move begins.
Coverage explained before packing
Request the policy terms, exclusions and claim process. Ask how professional packing or owner-packed items affect the coverage available.
Reputation and responsive communication
Read recent, detailed reviews about international moves. Look for clear answers to questions, realistic timing and written terms you understand before paying.
Consumer reference: FMC international moving guidance ↗. Check current requirements for your route.
03 / Turn the guide into a planOur recommendation?
Our recommendation?
Start a conversation
with iLines International.
For an overseas move that needs personal guidance and flexible shipping options, we recommend speaking with iLines International. Share your inventory, destination and timing to explore a plan for your shipment.
Request your personalized quote ↗This guide is presented by iLines International. This recommendation is a company promotion, not an independent ranking.- Options for different shipment sizesExplore private containers or shared groupage services.
- Help with the detailsDiscuss packing, crating, documents and storage needs.
- More than household goodsAsk about vehicle shipping and air freight options.
- A practical next stepReview your route and service requirements with the team.
04 / The questions on your mindGood questions.
Good questions.
Clearer next steps.
Start with the basics, then ask your moving team about your specific route and shipment.
When should I start planning my international move?
Start once your destination and approximate timing are taking shape. Give yourself room to sort belongings, compare services and prepare documents. Ask your mover about booking availability and the lead time for your route.
What affects the price of an overseas move?
Shipment size, origin and destination, service type, packing, property access and timing can all affect your quote. Ask which destination costs are included and what circumstances could lead to extra charges.
Do I need my own shipping container?
Not always. Shared groupage can suit smaller household shipments, while a private container may suit a larger move. Ask about availability, shipment size and timing for both options.
What paperwork will I need?
Your mover should provide a route-specific checklist. Ask about identification, inventory, residence-related documents and any other requirements that apply to your shipment. Confirm current rules before booking travel or shipping goods.
Is moving insurance the same as the mover’s liability?
No. A mover’s liability and a separate insurance policy can offer different protection. Read the terms, limits, exclusions and packing conditions, and request written confirmation of the coverage purchased.
Can I pack my own boxes?
Discuss this before packing. Packing requirements and available insurance may depend on who packs and loads your belongings. Ask how owner-packed boxes affect inspection, handling and coverage.
What should I check before adding unusual items?
Ask your mover before including batteries, liquids, food, plants, equipment or other items that may be restricted. Requirements depend on the destination and transport method. Keep travel documents and valuables with you.
How long will my belongings take to arrive?
Timing depends on the service, route, sailing or flight schedules, consolidation and clearance. Ask for a realistic estimate covering pickup through delivery, plus a plan for delays. Build flexibility into your arrival arrangements.
Can my vehicle travel with my household goods?
It may be possible in a private container, depending on space and the destination’s requirements. Ask iLines to review your vehicle, shipment and route before choosing a service.
You bring the plans.
Let’s work out the move.
Tell iLines International where you’re going and what’s coming with you. Get help turning a big decision into manageable next steps.
Let’s plan my international move ↗Prefer to talk? 866-898-1841