International moves are not like local or even cross-country moves. You’re working with customs regulations, freight timelines, international carriers, and often multiple ports of entry. You need to know what’s going, how it’s going, and when it’s arriving.

Moving abroad is a major decision. And while it’s exciting, it’s also complex—especially when you’re relocating furniture, art, or other valuable items across borders.

This guide explains how international moves work, what to expect when shipping large items, and how Princeton Moving provides the kind of care and precision high-end moves require.

Start with a Plan

Start by creating a list of everything you want to move. Be specific. A general idea like “some furniture” doesn’t help. Instead, write: “one antique writing desk, two custom armchairs, one marble dining table.” If it’s large, heavy, or fragile, it needs a plan.

Understand What You Can—and Can’t—Ship

Each country has its own rules. Some won’t allow certain wood products or animal-based materials (like ivory). Others have limits on electronics, alcohol, or personal items over a certain value.

Work with a moving company that understands these details. Princeton Moving specializes in international moving services and helps clients navigate the legal requirements of the country you’re moving to. That means fewer delays—and no surprises at customs.

Pack for the Distance

Moving a piano across town is one thing. Sending it across the ocean is another. That’s why packing matters. Your items may travel by truck, ship, and sometimes even air before arriving at your new home.

Here’s what high-value packing should include:

• Custom crating for art, pianos, and sculptures
• Shock-absorbent materials to protect against long-haul vibration
• Moisture protection for ocean freight, especially wood and fabric items
• Barcode tracking and inventory logs for every item

Princeton Moving uses tailored packing methods for each item, based on its size, shape, and fragility. That includes antiques, fine furniture, and other one-of-a-kind pieces. Every detail is tracked, logged, and handled with care.

Choose the Right Shipping Method

You typically have two options when moving large items overseas:

1. Container shipping (by sea) – Best for full household moves or large, bulky items. It’s cost-effective and works well for non-urgent timelines.

2. Air freight – Much faster, but more expensive. Used for smaller high-value items or urgent shipments.

The right choice depends on your budget, your timeline, and what you’re moving. Princeton Moving works with trusted international carriers and handles logistics from pickup to delivery.

Prepare for Customs

You’ll need documentation—sometimes a lot of it. That includes:

• Inventory of all shipped items
• Proof of ownership
• Visa or residence permit
• Customs forms for the destination country
  
  

Some countries require translated documents or notarized copies. If you miss a step, your shipment can be delayed or even rejected.

This is where international moving services like those at princetonmoving.com make a difference. Their team coordinates all required paperwork and communicates directly with customs agents.

Consider Storage

Sometimes, your items arrive before you’re ready to receive them. Maybe you’re still finalizing your lease, or your new home isn’t furnished. In that case, short- or long-term storage helps bridge the gap.

Princeton Moving offers secure storage options for international shipments. Items are stored in climate-controlled facilities with 24/7 monitoring. That’s especially useful for temperature-sensitive pieces like vintage instruments or oil paintings.

Insurance Matters

Even with the best planning, shipping across borders includes risk. Your items could face rough seas, transport delays, or handling issues along the way. Make sure everything is insured.

Princeton Moving provides full-value protection and can walk you through custom insurance plans for high-value shipments. That includes antiques, heirlooms, and fine art. Don’t leave it to chance.

What to Expect from Princeton Moving

Princeton Moving offers full-service international moving services designed for clients who expect precision, discretion, and professionalism. Here’s how the process works:

1. Consultation and quote – Schedule a visit or call to assess your move. You’ll get a detailed quote based on size, distance, and item value.
   
   
2. Packing and documentation – Their team packs, crates, and prepares all customs paperwork.
   
   
3. Transport and tracking – Your shipment is loaded and monitored through every stage of the move.
   
   
4. Delivery and unpacking – Items arrive at your new residence, ready for placement. Optional white-glove setup is available.
   
   
5. Ongoing support – You’ll have a dedicated move coordinator who keeps you updated and answers questions throughout the process.
   
   

This level of service is built for high-end clients—people moving their lives and their valuables across oceans with care.

Request Your Quote

Planning an international move? Don’t leave the details to chance. Work with a team that handles everything from fine furniture to full home relocations.

Contact us to request a quote today. Princeton Moving is here to make sure your move overseas goes smoothly—down to the last detail.