Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, offering new opportunities, cultures, and experiences. However, the process of relocating internationally can be daunting—packing up your life, coordinating logistics, and ensuring your belongings arrive safely at your new home requires careful planning. One of the most critical steps in this transition is selecting a local moving company that you can trust to handle your move efficiently and securely.
Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or personal reasons, partnering with the right moving company can make all the difference. A reliable moving company will not only handle your belongings with care but also navigate international shipping regulations, customs processes, and delivery logistics to make your move as stress-free as possible.
With so many moving companies available, how do you find the right one? Here’s a step-by-step guide to choosing a trustworthy local moving company that can help you make a smooth transition abroad.
1. Research the Company’s Reputation
A company’s track record and customer reviews say a lot about the quality of its services. Start by reading online reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. Pay attention to feedback about timeliness, professionalism, and the condition of delivered belongings.
It’s also a good idea to check if the company is accredited by organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). These certifications indicate that the company follows industry standards and ethical business practices.
If possible, ask for recommendations from expat communities or online forums where people share real experiences with international moving services. Other travelers or expats may have valuable insights about which companies are reliable and which to avoid.
- Verify Licensing and Insurance
When moving internationally, it’s essential to work with a licensed and insured moving company. Reputable services will have the proper certifications to handle cross-border relocations. In the U.S., moving companies should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number, while international companies should be registered with organizations like the IAM or FIDI (a global alliance of moving and relocation companies).
Equally important is insurance coverage. The last thing you want is to arrive at your new home only to find damaged or lost belongings with no way to recover your losses. Ask about their moving insurance policies, including:
- Basic coverage (often included but with limited protection)
- Full-value protection (covers the actual cost of lost or damaged items)
- Third-party insurance (for extra security on valuable items)
A professional moving company should be transparent about their insurance options and willing to answer any questions about liability in case of damages.
3. Assess the Services They Offer
Not all moving companies provide the same level of service, so it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs. International moves require more than just transportation—you may need additional services such as:
- Packing and unpacking assistance to ensure fragile or valuable items are safely prepared for the journey
- Temporary storage solutions if your new home isn’t ready for move-in immediately
- Customs clearance support to help navigate documentation requirements and avoid delays
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly for large or bulky items
PODS offer flexible moving and storage solutions that allow you to pack at your own pace and keep your belongings safe until you’re ready for delivery. This is especially helpful for international relocations where timing is unpredictable.
Be sure to get a detailed list of services and pricing to understand exactly what’s included and what might incur additional costs.
4. Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Pricing
Pricing for international moves can vary significantly depending on distance, volume, services required, and time of year. To ensure you’re getting a fair deal, request written estimates from at least three different moving companies.
Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true—some companies offer extremely low prices upfront but include hidden fees later. A reputable mover will provide a clear, itemized quote that breaks down costs for labor, transportation, storage, customs clearance, and insurance.
If a company refuses to provide a binding estimate or charges unusually high deposits, it could be a red flag for potential scams. Always choose companies that are upfront about their pricing and willing to answer any concerns.
5. Understand Their Customer Support and Communication
Moving internationally can be stressful, and working with a company that provides clear and responsive communication is crucial. Before making your decision, evaluate how easy it is to get in touch with their representatives.
- Do they respond promptly to inquiries?
- Are they knowledgeable about international moving requirements?
- Do they provide a dedicated move coordinator to assist throughout the process?
Good communication can make or break a moving experience. Reliable moving companies will keep you informed at every stage—from initial packing to customs clearance and final delivery.
Moving Abroad with Confidence
Relocating to another country is a major life change, but the right local moving company can make the process far less overwhelming. By carefully researching moving companies, verifying credentials, comparing quotes, and ensuring they offer the right services for your needs, you can relocate smoothly and confidently. Whether you’re moving across the country or internationally, finding the right company ensures your belongings arrive safely, so you can focus on embracing your new adventure abroad.
