Moving abroad is one of the most exciting (and logistically complex) decisions a person can make. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, retirement, or a fresh start, the process of moving your life across international borders involves a level of coordination that far exceeds a domestic move. For Chicago residents preparing for a global relocation, understanding what the process actually looks like from first phone call to front door overseas, can make the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful ordeal.
This guide walks you through exactly what to expect when working with Chicago international movers, including a realistic timeline, a breakdown of costs, an overview of the services involved, and answers to the questions our customers ask most.
Chicago is one of the busiest international relocation corridors in the United States. As a global financial, cultural, and logistics hub, the city sees thousands of residents relocate internationally each year — to Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and beyond. Corporations with global footprints regularly transfer executives and employees out of Chicago. Universities, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations send professionals abroad for assignments. And increasingly, individuals are choosing to retire or work remotely from destinations outside the U.S.
That volume of demand has created a mature and competitive market for international moving companies in Chicago. The good news: Chicago movers have extensive experience with the specific documentation, customs requirements, and moving routes that international moves require. The better news: when you work with the right partner, the process is far more manageable than most people expect.
One of the most common misconceptions about international moving is that it can be arranged quickly. In reality, a well-executed international move requires advance planning: often six to twelve weeks at minimum, and sometimes longer depending on the destination.
Here is a general timeline for what the process looks like when working with international movers in Chicago:
This is the ideal time to contact international moving companies in Chicago for an in-home or virtual survey. During this assessment, a moving consultant will evaluate the volume and nature of your belongings, discuss your destination country and delivery address, and begin building a quote. You’ll also begin conversations about moving method (sea freight, air freight, or a combination) and discuss any specialty items such as antiques, artwork, vehicles, or fragile goods.
Once you’ve selected your Chicago international moving company and confirmed your quote, the logistics team gets to work. This phase involves booking your moving container or airfreight space, beginning the documentation process (customs forms, packing inventories, certificates of origin where applicable), and coordinating with an overseas agent at your destination. Your move coordinator will walk you through any country-specific import requirements, prohibited items lists, and duty or tax considerations.
Your packing crew will typically be scheduled during this window. Professional international movers use export-grade packing materials (double-walled cartons, custom crating for fragile or high-value items, and moisture-resistant wrapping) because your belongings need to withstand ocean transit, temperature changes, and handling across multiple facilities. Packing can take one to several days depending on the size of your home.
Your goods are loaded, inventoried, and sealed. You’ll receive documentation including a Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight) that tracks your shipment. Your belongings are transported to a Chicago-area freight facility, then forwarded to the port of departure: typically Chicago, Detroit, or a major East or West Coast port depending on the destination.
Ocean freight transit times vary significantly by destination: Europe typically runs three to five weeks, East Asia four to six weeks, Australia six to eight weeks, and South America two to four weeks. Air freight dramatically reduces transit time to one to two weeks but at a substantially higher cost. Upon arrival at the destination port, your overseas agent handles customs clearance, delivery, and in most cases, unpacking and debris removal.
Cost is understandably top of mind for anyone planning a move of this scale. International moving costs are influenced by several key variables.
Sea freight is priced by volume (cubic feet or cubic meters), while air freight is priced by weight. The more you ship, the more it costs, which is why many people take this opportunity to sell, donate, or store belongings they don’t need abroad.
Distance is a factor, but so are port fees, local handling costs, and customs duties in the destination country. Some countries have straightforward import processes; others require extensive documentation, inspections, or duties on household goods.
A full container load (FCL) is the most efficient option for large household moves, giving you exclusive use of a 20-foot or 40-foot container. A less-than-container load (LCL) consolidates your goods with other shipments, which reduces cost but may extend delivery times. Air freight is the fastest option and is typically reserved for essential items or smaller volumes.
Full-service international moves, including professional packing, customs documentation, door-to-door delivery, and unpacking, cost more than a basic port-to-port service, but they eliminate the burden of managing logistics across two countries simultaneously.
International moving insurance (formally called marine cargo insurance) is strongly recommended. Standard carrier liability provides minimal coverage compared to the actual replacement value of your goods.
As a general benchmark, Chicago residents moving a two- to three-bedroom home’s worth of goods to Europe via sea freight can expect costs in the range of $5,000 to $10,000 for full-service moves. Smaller volumes, partial services, or destinations with complex import requirements will push costs in different directions. An accurate quote requires a proper inventory assessment; figures quoted without a survey should be treated with caution.
The best international moving company in Chicago will offer a comprehensive suite of services that covers every phase of your relocation. Here’s what a full-service offering looks like:
A thorough in-home or virtual assessment to inventory your goods, discuss your timeline, explain destination-specific requirements, and build an accurate quote.
Professional packing using materials and techniques designed for long-distance international transport. This includes custom crating for antiques, artwork, or electronics.
Preparation of all required export and import documentation, including packing inventories, certificates, and country-specific forms. Experienced Chicago international movers maintain up-to-date knowledge of import regulations in hundreds of destination countries.
Transportation of your goods to the freight terminal, loading into the container or airfreight unit, and coordination with the moving carrier.
Coordination with an overseas agent for customs clearance, local delivery, and in many cases, unpacking and assembly at your new home.
Both origin and destination storage options for situations where your move-out and move-in dates don’t align perfectly.
Handling for vehicles, pets, fine art, wine collections, and other items requiring specialized logistics.
Many international moving companies in Chicago offer or can refer you to additional relocation services: visa and immigration support, school search, home-finding assistance, and destination orientation.
Not all movers are equal, and the stakes are considerably higher on an international move than a local one. Here’s what to look for:
Look for membership in FIDI (the global alliance of international movers) and AMSA (the American Moving and Storage Association). FIDI-affiliated companies are independently audited for quality and financial stability.
An international moving company with direct experience and established agent relationships in your destination country is invaluable. Ask specifically about their network in the country you’re moving to.
Reputable international movers Chicago residents rely on will always base quotes on a proper inventory assessment, not a rough estimate over the phone. Be cautious of unusually low quotes that don’t include all services.
Ask for references from customers who have moved to your destination region. Read reviews carefully, paying attention to how the company handles challenges, because in international moving, unexpected situations arise, and what matters is how they’re resolved.
International moves involve dozens of moving parts across multiple time zones. A single point of contact who knows your shipment from start to finish is a necessity.
At Allied International, we’ve been helping Chicago residents and families relocate around the world with confidence, care, and complete transparency. As one of the most experienced international moving companies in Chicago, we bring over 100 years of expertise, a global network of trusted agents, and a commitment to making your move as smooth as possible, from your Chicago home to your new front door, wherever in the world that may be.
Whether you’re moving to London or Lagos, Tokyo or Toronto, our team is ready to walk you through every step of the process, with no pressure and no obligation.
Contact Allied International today to schedule your free international moving consultation.
Get a free quote online or call us to get started. Our move coordinators are available to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you build a plan that fits your timeline and budget.
Your next chapter starts here. Let’s move.
Ideally, six to eight weeks before your target move date — and more is always better. Booking your container space, preparing documentation, and coordinating with overseas agents all take time. Last-minute international moves are possible but typically come with higher costs and fewer options. If your move date is fixed by an employer or visa requirement, contact a Chicago international moving company as soon as that date is confirmed.
Every destination country has its own prohibited and restricted items list, but common exclusions include perishable food, plants and soil, certain firearms and ammunition, hazardous materials, and some medications. Additionally, many countries restrict or require special documentation for alcohol, medications, and certain electronics. Your move coordinator will provide a specific list based on your destination and help you plan accordingly.
Standard carrier liability for international moves is typically limited to a very low per-pound rate that bears little relationship to the actual value of your goods. Marine cargo insurance — available through your moving company or independently — covers the replacement or repair value of your items. We strongly recommend obtaining full replacement value coverage for any international shipment. Review policy terms carefully, particularly around what constitutes proper packing and how claims are submitted.
You can pack some items yourself, but there are important considerations. Many insurance policies do not cover damage to owner-packed boxes, since the carrier cannot verify the packing method. Additionally, customs authorities in some countries may require that shipments be professionally packed and inventoried in order to clear inspection efficiently. For high-value or fragile items, professional export packing is always recommended. Your move coordinator can advise on the best approach for your specific situation.
Timing mismatches are common in international relocation, and reputable international moving companies in Chicago plan for them. Most full-service international movers maintain storage facilities at both the origin and destination, allowing your goods to be held securely until you’re ready to receive them. Your move coordinator should discuss contingency options during the planning phase so that a delay (on either end) doesn’t become a crisis.
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.
