Moving to the USA from the UK: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move from the UK to the USA?
The cost depends on shipment volume, groupage or dedicated-container service, packing, UK collection access, destination state, inland transport, storage and specialist items.
How long does it take to ship household goods to the USA?
Sea freight normally takes several weeks, with the full schedule affected by the US port, transhipment, customs clearance and inland delivery. Groupage normally takes longer than a dedicated container.
What is the cheapest way to move belongings to the USA?
For a smaller flexible shipment, groupage is often economical because the customer pays for the container space used.
Can I ship only boxes to the USA?
Yes. Boxes and smaller personal-effects consignments can often travel through groupage or air freight. A detailed inventory is still required.
Do I need a full shipping container?
Not necessarily. A dedicated container is normally recommended when the measured packed volume justifies sole use. Smaller moves can share container space.
What is groupage shipping?
Groupage combines separately packed shipments from several customers in one container. Each customer pays for the space occupied and accepts a broader schedule.
Are used household goods duty free in the USA?
Foreign household effects used abroad for more than one year may qualify for duty-free entry when they are imported for continued personal or household use.
What happens if my belongings are less than one year old?
Foreign household effects used abroad for less than one year can be dutiable. Recent purchases should be listed separately and supported by invoices or values where requested.
What is CBP Form 3299?
Form 3299 is the Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles used for household effects and personal belongings shipped separately from the owner.
What documents are needed for US customs clearance?
Common documents include Form 3299, a passport copy, immigration or entry information, a detailed inventory, transport documents and customs-broker authorisation.
Can someone clear my goods for me?
A properly authorised customs broker or destination agent can usually submit the documents on your behalf. You remain responsible for the accuracy of the declaration.
Will CBP inspect my shipment?
CBP can review the documents and select the container, vehicle or packages for examination. Agriculture and other federal agencies can also inspect relevant goods.
Do I need to declare food, plants or soil?
Yes. Agricultural products including meat, fruit, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and animal or plant products should be declared and may be restricted or prohibited.
Does wood packaging need special treatment?
Regulated solid-wood pallets and crates must comply with ISPM 15 treatment and marking standards. Non-compliant wood packaging can be refused entry.
Can I ship new furniture or appliances?
Yes, but new or recently used goods may be dutiable. Keep invoices and identify recent purchases clearly before packing.
Can I ship alcohol or tobacco?
Alcohol and tobacco are regulated and can be subject to federal and state permits, duty, excise tax and quantity restrictions. Do not pack them without written confirmation.
Can you collect from anywhere in the UK?
Easy Moving London can arrange collection from London and across the UK. Share the full collection postcode, US destination, property access notes and any timing limits so the move can be planned accurately.
Can you deliver anywhere in the USA?
Delivery can be discussed across the continental United States, Alaska and Hawaii. Remote, island and restricted-access destinations may require additional arrangements.
Can my belongings be stored during the move?
Storage may be available before export or after customs clearance. Confirm the location, recurring rate, handling charges and later delivery arrangements.
Can I take my UK car to the USA?
Possibly, but vehicle importation is separate from household goods and must meet CBP, EPA, NHTSA and destination-state requirements.
What forms are required for an imported vehicle?
DOT Form HS-7 and EPA Form 3520-1 are normally required for passenger vehicles and highway motorcycles.
Can a car over 25 years old be imported?
A vehicle at least 25 years old can be imported without meeting current Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. EPA emissions requirements remain separate.
Can I import a newer non-US-specification vehicle?
It may require a Registered Importer, an Independent Commercial Importer, modifications, testing and a bond. Some vehicles are not practical or eligible to import.
What does my dog need to enter the USA?
Every dog needs a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs from dog-rabies-free or low-risk countries must also appear healthy, be at least six months old and have a universally readable microchip.
Does my cat need a rabies certificate?
CDC does not generally require proof of rabies vaccination for cats entering the mainland United States, but cats are inspected and destination states may have additional rules.
Are pet rules different for Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii applies separate animal quarantine and entry requirements, even for animals arriving from the US mainland.
Do I need insurance for an international removal?
Suitable cover should be considered because the shipment passes through multiple handling, ocean, customs and inland-transport stages.
When should I book a move to the USA?
Starting around twelve to sixteen weeks before collection gives more time for a survey, shipping choice, customs documents and vehicle or pet arrangements.
