Trusted Moving & Storage Since 1988

International Relocation – Who Is Responsible For What?

Planning an international move can be an overwhelming process because there are so many logistical challenges and details involved. 

By partnering with Isaac’s Moving & Storage, you’re not just hiring a moving company—you’re gaining a trusted team with decades of experience in international moving. We are part of a global network of certified moving professionals, enabling us to provide reliable, high-quality services in virtually any destination country.

Isaac’s Moving and Storage is a FIDI accredited international mover, and the experience of thousands of moves, our advice below will help you with your international relocation. 

International Relocation Checklist: What You Need to Know

1. You are legally the exporter and importer

If you are moving your possessions from one country to another, you are essentially both exporting and importing goods. Even if you use an international relocation broker, at the end of the day, you are legally responsible for the content of the shipment, costs of shipping, import duties, any paperwork required, insurance, etc. So check all the details in the paperwork and be careful to fill in the forms correctly. Any errors will fall on you, making it vital to choose a highly experienced international mover to oversee your move.

Isaac’s Moving & Storage has the expertise to guide you through this process, ensuring nothing is overlooked. A single mistake in customs declarations or shipping documents can lead to costly delays or penalties.

2. You are responsible for your shipment content

When packing for any move, it is important to ensure that items are snugly packed and protected to avoid damage. This is even more true for an international move where your belongings may spend a good few weeks on a boat and being bounced around on the back of large trucks.. If your belongings are damaged during shipping because of incorrect packing, it is your responsibility.

Using high-quality packing materials is essential to protect against damage caused by moisture, vibrations, or impact. At Isaac’s Moving & Storage, our professional packing services ensure your items are secured according to international standards.

3. You are responsible for import/export/customs fees

In addition to the actual costs of shipping, you must pay the appropriate import and export fees. This can add extensively to the cost of your move! So, make sure that you include it in your budget. A reputable international moving company such as Isaac’s Moving & Storage will provide you detailed information for your destination country about duties and import fees so you can know what to take and what not to take with you.

Failing to account for these fees can create financial surprises, so careful planning is essential. Our team provides clarity on these costs upfront, helping you make informed decisions about what to bring.

4. You are responsible for insurance

If your belongings that are being shipped are lost or damaged in any way, you will not be compensated unless you have arranged insurance. 

Comprehensive insurance coverage is essential to protect your investment in your belongings. Isaac’s Moving & Storage can assist you in selecting the right policy to cover potential risks during transit.

5. You may need to be present at customs

When you are transporting goods internationally, you must comply with the regulations of your destination country. Some countries require that the shipper be present at customs to release the shipment. Remember to speak to your moving company about whether your physical presence is required to move your containers through customs.

6. You must handle all legal matters and paperwork

All forms, paperwork and legal matters relating to shipping your possessions to another country must be signed by you as the shipper. Your international moving company can provide you with all relevant paperwork, but it is your responsibility to ensure that it is all in order.

Take the time to double-check all forms for accuracy to avoid unnecessary delays. Isaac’s Moving & Storage supports you with step-by-step instructions, so you feel confident about handling these legalities.

Choose Isaac’s Moving & Storage for a Hassle-Free International Move

At Isaac’s Moving & Storage, our track record speaks for itself. Don’t just take our word for it—read our client reviews to see how we’ve helped families and businesses successfully navigate their international relocations.

Whether it’s a single household or a corporate office, our clients consistently praise our professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail.

An international move is complicated, but it needn’t be a nightmare. By choosing Isaac’s Moving & Storage to coordinate your international move, you get a full suite of services designed to simplify every stage of the moving process:

  • Professional Packing Services: Our skilled team takes the utmost care when preparing your belongings for their journey. We use high-quality packaging supplies to ensure everything from fragile heirlooms to bulky furniture arrives in pristine condition.
  • Shipping Coordination: We handle the logistics of transporting your belongings, ensuring they reach your destination on time and in perfect condition.
  • Customs Management: Dealing with import and export regulations can be daunting. Our team works closely with customs officials to manage the required paperwork and avoid unnecessary delays.
  • Global Partnerships: As members of an international consortium of movers, we collaborate with trusted partners around the world to provide seamless door-to-door service.

For a free quote, contact Isaac’s Moving & Storage today.

Now its your move.

One thing we can promise you is this: We’ll handle your move as if it were our own! — if you have a move coming up, leave your information below and an Isaac’s Moving & Storage Move Consultant will be in touch with you shortly!

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One thing we can promise you is this: We’ll handle your move as if it were our own! — if you have a move coming up, leave your information below and an Isaac’s Moving & Storage Move Consultant will be in touch with you shortly!