Before packing, check this list of items prohibited from entering a particular country or region.
Why choose us for international removals?
Purpose-built international removals boxes and materials provided
Trusted with your international shipments for over 25 years
Pick your own dates for shipment delivery and collection
Enjoy 2 weeks FREE storage before and after shipping
We handle the quarantine and customs clearance process
Trusted international removal experts for over 25 years
Whether it's a new career, an opportunity to study, or simply the desire to experience a different way of life, moving abroad is an adventure like no other. However, the thought of getting all your worldly possessions from A to B, especially when travelling a distance, can be daunting. Don't worry, though — our international removals experts have been helping people moving overseas for over a quarter of a century.
As one of the country's leading international removals companies, we specialise in door-to-door relocations and own a vast network of depots covering countless destinations across the globe. With our extensive experience, our services make the process of moving goods overseas efficient, affordable and stress-free, allowing you to spend more time on the things that matter, like finding your dream house and planning the perfect bon voyage party.
For some areas we only offer to a door-to-depot international moving service, and the depot might not be close to your address — please check before booking.
The MoveCube® — making international moving smooth sailing
The Seven Seas Worldwide MoveCube® is an international removals solution unique to our company. Designed to provide your household goods with ultimate protection and security on their removals journey, the International MoveCube® is essentially your own dedicated moving container delivered to your door, ready for you to pack. You can fill it with anything from bedding and clothes to your sofa and washing machine. Then, once you've completed the online documentation, our removals team will handle the rest, from moving the International MoveCube® safely abroad to seeing it through customs.
Here are just a few of the benefits of using our excellent removals services:
- No hidden removals costs: no one enjoys getting hit with moving additional costs after they book a service — that's why our free online quote tool clearly itemises your purchase. Plus, instead of asking you to pay one lump sum in advance of your delivery, we charge in affordable two or three-part instalments.
- We own depots all over the globe: our vast network of international moving experts spans from the UK to South Africa, and countless countries in between. As we handle the entire international removals process, we can promise that from the moment you book your order through to delivery, you'll be speaking with us and only us, and we pride ourselves on consistently delivering quality services.
- Secure storage services: also included with your International MoveCube® is two weeks of complimentary storage before and after moving at one of our clean and dry facilities.
- We handle the customs documentation: once your shipment is in our expert's hands, we manage the entire overseas removal process, including completing the necessary procedures for quarantine and customs clearance.
Designed to provide your household goods with ultimate protection and security on their removals journey, the International MoveCube® is essentially your own dedicated moving container delivered to your door, ready for you to pack.
See our MoveCube® moving pod in action:
Moving international removal goods in 5 steps
Free online quick quote
Our instant quote tool provides a clear, itemised moving cost with no hidden fees or nasty surprises.
Pick your moving dates
When placing your order, choose the moving materials, delivery and collection dates that suit you.
Securely pack your items
We deliver empty removals boxes or an International MoveCube®, ready for you to fill.
We collect and ship
Complete the online documentation. Then we'll transport your shipment to its destination.
Delivered to your address
Our team will clear your moving goods through customs and deliver them safely to your new home.
Don't take our word for it
Our customers love our international removal service!
Popular countries our international moving company serves:
Whether you're moving to seek sun and sea on the Australian coast, looking for a little peace and quiet in the mountains of Canada or have found your dream job in the business hub of Singapore, our international removal company can move goods across all four corners of the globe. Here're the most popular moving and storage destinations our removals services cover (and don't forget to check out our Customs Advice page for information):
The MoveCube®: a guide to our international move pod
Starting a new life abroad doesn't mean you have to leave behind all your hard-earned and much-loved possessions. Instead, take them with you on your removals adventure using our MoveCube® services. It's essentially your own mini moving container delivered to your door, and it truly is the easiest and most secure way to move household items overseas.
Each moving pod can carry up to 1.25 tonnes, and there are three sizes available for you to choose from, Large, Medium and Small. We can also provide multiple containers for larger removals shipments. Here's a handy guide to help you estimate how many you might need depending on the size of your property:
1 bedroom apartment: 1 Large and 1 Medium International MoveCube®
2 bedroom apartment: 2 Large International MoveCubes®
2 bedroom home: 3 Large International MoveCubes®
3 bedroom home: 5 Large and 1 Medium International MoveCubes®
4 bedroom house: 7 Large and 1 Medium International MoveCubes®
5 bedroom house: 9 Large International MoveCubes®
How big are our moving pods, the MoveCube®?
Below are the dimensions for each International MoveCube® size and the contents of their respective starter pack kits. However, if you decide you don't need as many removals containers or would prefer a smaller size, let us know a few working days before their arrival, and we'll change your order for no additional charge. On the other hand, if there are a few extra boxes or bags you're unable to squeeze in, we'll send them using our shipping services.
Internal dimensions:
146cm/57 inches (W)
187cm/73 inches (H)
226cm/88 inches (D)
Internal dimensions:
111cm/43 inches (W)
187cm/73 inches (H)
146cm/57 inches (D)
Internal dimensions:
96cm/35 inches (W)
187cm/73 inches (H)
111cm/43 inches (D)
*Please note, the MoveCube® moving pod is loaded from the side panel.
Your free starter pack for international removals
Before we deliver a International MoveCube® moving pod, you must book a suitable date for one of our drivers to conduct a site inspection and drop off your complimentary starter pack.
This kit contains some essential packing materials to help you wrap your prized effects securely for their international removals journey.
See below for all the items you'll receive before your move:
1 x brown tape
Use to seal the lid and secure the bottom of cardboard moving boxes.
1 x knife
For opening boxes and cutting parcel tape to size.
1 x marker pen
Please number your boxes and bags to match your inventory.
1 x measuring tape
Measure goods to check they fit the moving container.
1 x tape gun
Ideal for speedy wrapping and box assembly.
3 x floor sheets
One for each MoveCube® size, lay flat and use as a guide to see what they can fit.
What size are our purpose-built international removals boxes?
Our super sturdy cardboard moving boxes are another benefit of using Seven Seas Worldwide for your international removals. These containers are manufactured to our exact specifications from double-walled, chemically-hardened cardboard to ensure your goods maximum protection during the moving process and give you even greater peace of mind.
Although we have bespoke boxes for particularly fragile or unusually shaped items such as bikes and TVs, the Large MoveCube® moving pod comes with our Large and Standard boxes — see below for their dimensions.
Large removals container
External dimensions:
61 x 51 x 41cm / 24 x 20 x 16.14 inches
Best for moving:
- Kid's toys
- Clothes
- Bedding
Standard removals box
External dimensions:
51 x 41 x 31cm / 20 x 16.14 x 12.2 inches
Best for moving:
- Files and papers
- Books
- Kitchen utensils
FAQs about our international removal services
Wherever you're moving, our international moving company can deliver your belongings to your new house with minimal fuss and little effort on your part. Here's how our international removals service works in three simple steps:
Generate an instant moving quote: enter the to and from addresses and as much information as possible about the items you want to ship into our free online quote tool. Once you've got a clear, accurate cost, book your order and choose a convenient date for us to deliver your starter pack and conduct a site check, and then a date for the delivery of your empty MoveCube(s)® moving pod.
Pack your boxes: next, carefully wrap your possessions and, if you've ordered a Large International MoveCube®, pack them in the double-walled, chemically-hardened removals boxes that come with your starter pack. On the day we deliver your empty International MoveCube(s)®, you'll be allocated a slot to load your boxes and any other items, such as mattresses, furniture or kitchen appliances, into the moving container depending on its size (the same process applies for unloading at the shipment's destination).
Complete the online documentation: lastly, fill out the documentation we'll send to your online Seven Seas Worldwide account, including a detailed inventory to record the contents of your removals shipment and insurance forms, then book a collection date. From there, our team will handle the rest, transporting your goods overseas, clearing them through customers and delivering them to your new address. Easy!
Due to their size and weight, we ship our International MoveCube's® by sea — the least expensive mode for moving overseas! However, you'll need to use our no-obligation quote engine or contact our multilingual team for overseas moving transit times, as these vary depending on the destination country you are moving to and whether you would like us to deliver your shipment to your new address or the port for you to collect.
The best way to get the most accurate price for our international removals service is to fill out our free instant removals quote form. Don't worry — it's quick and easy to submit and will give you a comprehensive breakdown of all the costs involved, including customs clearance, warehouse handling, and other related moving charges.
Unfortunately, many international moving companies either don't know or exclude certain destination fees from their quotes, leading to surprise costs down the line. However, Seven Seas Worldwide is committed to 100% transparency, and as our international removals service is end-to-end, we can tell you exactly what all the costs are before you book.
Each country has its own list of prohibited goods that, unfortunately, you won't be able to take with you when moving overseas. There are some obvious items that all international moving destinations forbid, such as illegal drugs, firearms, explosives and counterfeit or pirated goods. But also some more uncommon restrictions, for example, both Australia and New Zealand won't allow the importation of pain relief head bags and China and Hong Kong have a ban on milk powder.
For a smooth and stress-free moving experience, we strongly suggest referencing our Prohibitive Goods page before starting to pack your international removals shipment.
Loading your International MoveCube® can feel a little like playing a giant game of Tetris. Don't worry, though, as below, we've listed our top five tips to help you get everything into the moving containers safely and securely. Plus, our drivers will always offer plenty of advice:
- Place the heaviest items, like your sofa, washing machine or fridge, on the floor in the centre of the MoveCube® shipping container.
- Keep everything level and pad any gaps, for example, by using a mattress turned on its side, to prevent your goods from moving about while at sea.
- When moving belongings to Australia or New Zealand, please place any shoes or boots in the white box provided with the soles facing upwards and load last. Ensuring these items are ready for inspection will make the customs process much smoother as these countries have strict regulations regarding importing items that might contain dirt and other organic materials.
- To avoid any confusion during your international removals process and make it easier for you to identify what goes where when unpacking, label at least one side of each box once full with your name, job number and a description of its contents.
- Although you can, of course, fill your International MoveCube® with your own boxes, we highly suggest using the brand new, chemically-hardened cardboard containers we provide as they're specially designed to withstand long international removal trips.
4 tips for a smooth international removals experience
As with any life-changing event, overseas moving can be a rollercoaster of emotions, swinging from excitement to nerves and back again in a heartbeat. At least by choosing our removals company to handle your international moves, there'll be one less thing on your to-do list!
However, as it's always our goal to make overseas removals enjoyable and straightforward, whether that's with our seamless international removals service or by sharing a little of our expertise, here are our top tips to help make relocating abroad a breeze:
Do your research:
Even if you're relatively familiar with the country you're moving to, it's a good idea to get on the net and find out everything you can about your new home before you move, from the strength of their economy to what customs you should avoid breaking.
Consider joining online groups, too, such as ExpatForum and ExpatExchange, so you can connect with others who've embarked on similar moving adventures and lean on them for support and advice.
Have a declutter before moving:
While this might be stating the obvious, packing less will make our removals services cheaper. Start your declutter by going through your property, room by room, and sorting items into three piles, Keep, Sell and Donate.
If you struggle, use the "six-month rule". Essentially if you haven't worn those shoes since that wedding last year or read that big pile of books you keep forgetting about, get rid of them.
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare:
Your removals journey will be much less stressful if you aim to get things sorted for your move sooner rather than later. As an example, some countries require you to have a passport that's valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Others moving destinations restrict certain types of medication, so you might need to arrange an extra supply before leaving. Factoring in these timings will ensure everything runs like clockwork on move day and make settling in easier.
Save, save, save!:
Keep in mind this tried and true adage when moving house (especially overseas!) — take half the stuff and twice the cash. Alongside saving for plane tickets, visa applications, international removals and other expected costs, stash away a chunk of savings for emergencies.
Also, remember to inform your bank of your travel dates and consider getting a credit card that avoids foreign transaction fees.
4 popular destinations for expats starting a new life abroad
Seven Seas Worldwide is one of the country's leading international removal companies, helping over 40,000 people ship their belongings across the globe every year. Although no destination is too far, after compiling our 2021 Global Movement Report, our research found the top destinations for removals are America, the UK, Spain and Australia.
So, if you're toying with the idea of moving abroad but aren't sure where to head, here are some essential facts about these four popular destinations for expats to help inform your decision. You can also find more removals information on our Customs Advice page.
The USA
Still very much the Land of Opportunity, the States has a long history of welcoming immigrants with open arms, and a strong sense of community still runs strong in the hearts of its citizens, whether they live in a small town or the big city.
Types of visas: unlike some other moving destinations, acquiring a visa in the USA can take up to a year. However, if you possess a skill an American company needs, they'll typically apply for it on your behalf.
Job opportunities: the idea you can achieve anything as long as you put your mind to it still plays a significant role in how American employers treat their staff. So, work hard, and you're likely to see your career flourish.
Healthcare: ranked amongst the best in the world, healthcare in the US is pricey, but most companies offer generous medical and dental insurance policies.
Education: American schools and colleges are world-renowned, excelling in extracurricular activities like summer camps which prepare children for life beyond formal education.
Lifestyle: from their burgers and highways to their friendly personalities and wide-open spaces, everything in the States is super-sized, and you'll certainly never get bored of living life like you're in a movie.
Spain
It's easy to see why this land of vibrant fiestas, mouth-watering delicacies, and laid-back living is popular with immigrants. Plus, no matter if you prefer bustling city life or relaxing in a sunny beach town, Spain has a dream location for everyone.
Types of visas: applying for a Spanish visa is relatively straightforward as long as you meet specific requirements such as proof of sufficient financial funds and a good health certificate.
Job opportunities: Spanish companies emphasise work-life balance, and most people take long lunch breaks and siestas. However, becoming proficient in the language will make finding employment much easier.
Healthcare: hospitals are well-equipped and staffed by highly trained doctors and nurses, and all primary care services are free.
Education: Spain boasts many excellent international schools, as English is the primary teaching language and they use an internationally recognised curriculum.
Lifestyle: whether you're sipping vino on a balcony, topping up your tan on the beach or enjoying the vistas high up in the mountains, life in Spain is all about taking things slow and loving the outdoors.
Australia
The dream long-distance removals destination for many, especially young families, the idyllic beaches, abundant wildlife and easy-going vibe make living in Australia feel like one long holiday.
Types of visas: unless you're from New Zealand, you'll need to obtain a work visa to live in Australia, but once you've scored that job offer, the moving process is pretty straightforward.
Job opportunities: businesses in Oz really care about their workers' rights. Not only were they one of the first countries to implement the 40-hour week, but they also pay the highest minimum wage.
Healthcare: their healthcare system is called Medicare, and it offers permanent residents a mix of free and subsidised treatments.
Education: children in Australia benefit from an outstanding school system that focuses on experiencing the Great Outdoors and offers lots of sports clubs and activities.
Lifestyle: thanks to the wonderful weather, being out in nature is an absolute priority for Aussies, and with such a vast country to explore, you'll never run out of adventures.
The United Kingdom
Not only do you get four countries for the price of one, but moving to the UK also means you have centuries of fascinating history, miles of stunning countryside and more pubs than you could ever try a tipple at right on your doorstep.
Types of visas: if you're planning to move to the UK for longer than six months, you'll need to get a visa, but there are several different types to choose from depending on your situation.
Job opportunities: thanks to a relatively stable economy and countless booming cities, it's easy to find a job in Blighty, although competition is fierce in London.
Healthcare: the UK is a global leader in medicine and home to some of the best hospitals you can find. Plus, once you become a legal resident, you'll have free access to the NHS (National Health Service).
Education: chock-a-block with renowned educational institutions, the concept of higher education practically originated from the UK, with Oxford and Cambridge consistently ranking in the top ten best universities in the world.
Lifestyle: although the Brits are known for their politeness, they do have a dry sense of humour, so prepare for regular banter sessions. Also, bring a brolly.