Question 1

How much does it cost to ship belongings internationally?

Accepted Answer

International shipping costs vary widely: a 20-foot container costs $2,000-$8,000 depending on origin, destination, and season. Shared containers or LCL (Less than Container Load) start around $500-$2,000 for smaller shipments. Air freight is faster but 4-5x more expensive. Most expats find it cheaper to sell furniture and buy locally.

Question 2

What size shipping container do I need for an international move?

Accepted Answer

A 20-foot container fits a 1-2 bedroom apartment (about 1,000 cubic feet). A 40-foot container fits a 3-4 bedroom house. For smaller moves, LCL (shared container) is more economical. Many expats only ship irreplaceable personal items and a few boxes, which can go via air freight or postal services for $200-$1,000.

Question 3

Do I need to pay customs duties when moving abroad?

Accepted Answer

Most countries allow duty-free import of personal household goods for new residents, but rules vary. Mexico requires a menaje de casa (household goods) permit. Some countries restrict electronics or require inventories. Research destination-specific customs rules and consider hiring a customs broker for large shipments to avoid delays and unexpected fees.

Question 4

Should I ship my belongings or buy new when moving abroad?

Accepted Answer

For most expats, selling and rebuying is more cost-effective for furniture and appliances (different voltages, styles, and availability abroad). Ship only irreplaceable items: personal documents, sentimental items, specialty equipment, and clothing. A typical "essentials only" shipment costs $500-$2,000 vs. $5,000-$15,000 for a full household.

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