Relocating your family to Germany is one of the most exciting (and logistically complex) decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or the promise of a new adventure in the heart of Europe, the process of moving your household goods across the Atlantic requires careful planning, trusted expertise, and a partner who knows international moving inside and out. If you’re based in the Midwest, working with experienced Chicago international movers can make all the difference between a stressful ordeal and a smooth transition.
This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know, from your first consultation to the moment your belongings arrive safely in your new German home.
International moves are not something you want to tackle at the last minute. Unlike a domestic relocation, moving goods overseas involves customs documentation, ocean or air freight scheduling, import regulations, and coordinating delivery across multiple countries. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have, and the less you’ll pay.
Begin by taking a full inventory of your home. Walk through every room and decide what’s coming with you, what you’ll sell or donate, and what simply isn’t worth the moving cost. Large furniture, vehicles, and appliances all require special consideration. Some items, like certain foods, plants, and firearms, may be restricted or prohibited under German customs law.
This is also the time to request quotes from international moving companies Chicago residents trust. Compare services carefully: not just price, but experience, accreditations, and whether the company handles the entire door-to-door process or relies on third-party subcontractors overseas.
Not all movers are created equal, especially when it comes to international relocations. When evaluating Chicago international moving companies, look for the following credentials and capabilities:
Allied International, the best Chicago international movers, connects families with the world’s most trusted moving networks, ensuring your move to Germany is backed by proven experience and global reach.
Germany has well-defined customs regulations for household goods, and navigating them correctly is critical to avoiding delays, fines, or the seizure of your belongings. Here’s what you need to know:
A knowledgeable international mover will prepare all necessary customs documentation on your behalf and work with licensed customs brokers in Germany to ensure your shipment clears without issue.
Most families moving to Germany from the U.S. ship their belongings via ocean freight. You’ll need to decide between two options:
Transit times from Chicago-area ports to Germany generally range from 3 to 6 weeks depending on the port of departure, destination port (Hamburg, Bremen, and Bremerhaven are the most common), and whether you choose FCL or LCL. Your moving coordinator will help you select the right option based on volume, budget, and timeline.
Professional packing is strongly recommended for international moves. Ocean freight shipments endure vibration, temperature changes, humidity, and handling at multiple points along the journey. Your international moving company should use industry-standard packing materials, including double-walled boxes, bubble wrap, and custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items.
Make sure to also secure comprehensive marine cargo insurance for your shipment. Standard carrier liability is often minimal and won’t cover the full replacement value of your belongings. A reputable mover will offer or recommend a suitable insurance policy that covers your items from pickup to final delivery.
While your shipment is in transit, use the time to get your family settled. Register your address with the local German “Einwohnermeldeamt” (residents’ registration office) within 14 days of arrival; this is required by law and will also be needed to open a bank account, obtain a tax ID, and enroll children in school.
It’s also worth noting that German electrical standards differ from American ones. Germany uses 220V/50Hz, while the U.S. uses 110V/60Hz. Many American appliances will require a transformer or simply won’t be compatible — factor this into your decision about what to ship versus what to purchase new upon arrival.
Moving your family to Germany is a major undertaking, but with the right partner, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re moving from Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or anywhere in the Midwest, working with experienced Chicago international movers ensures your household goods are handled with care, your paperwork is done correctly, and your family’s transition to Germany is as smooth as possible.
At Allied International, we’ve helped thousands of families navigate the complexities of international relocation. As one of the most trusted international moving companies Chicago has to offer, we bring decades of expertise, a global network of certified partners, and a commitment to white-glove service from your front door to your new front door, wherever in the world that may be.
Request a free quote online to take the first step toward your new life in Germany with the best Chicago international moving company, Allied International.
We carefully and methodically pack and crate your items, ensuring their safe and secure arrival. We take pride in the expert packing, crating, and handling of your possessions.
Our aim is to have your belongings safely and quickly transported to your new location, with a focus on customer service and your utmost satisfaction.
We provide you with a personal moving coordinator. You can check in any time you wish, connecting to the same person who will be very familiar with your particular custom moving plan.
