It's no secret that international removals are more expensive than the use of a local moving service since you will be moving a much greater distance.

However, the total cost of overseas removals will depend greatly on a number of factors, such as the weight of the belongings that you need to ship, the distance that you're moving overseas and what type of international shipping package you choose.

International removals costs

Although a number of removal companies provide international services, it's best to work with a company that specialises in international removals when relocating overseas.

Begin by getting international removals price quotes from several companies. Your total cost of moving overseas will be estimated based on the weight and cubic measurement of all your possessions when packaged for shipment.

These price quotes will estimate:

• The amount of belongings that you need to ship
• The distance that you are moving
• If you are using "door-to-door"
• "Door-to-port"
  
• "Port-to-door" shipping.
  

If you want to save money on the cost of overseas removals, then door to door shipping should not be considered as it is the more costly option. With this option, a moving service will charge you more to transport your belongings from the front door of your old home to your new home.

Door to port or port to door shipping will require you to drop off and pick up your belongings at the port, thus saving overall on your total expenses.

You can also choose to ship in a private container or a shared container, which will be less expensive. Keep in mind that your total shipping estimate usually does not include insurance, inspection costs, and storage of your belongings when you move to your new country.

In addition to the basic cost of relocation, here are several other expenses to consider:

• Travel costs, including airfare, hotel, and transporting pets.
• The cost of a work visa in your new country. The price of your work visa will vary greatly depending on the country that you are moving to.
• Temporary car rental.
• Temporary accommodation until you find a new home.
• Travel insurance. Insurance to ship your belongings overseas is normally calculated at a percentage of the total value of your possessions.

Last but not least, it's probably also worth factoring costs you are likely to incur living in your new country. This will include:

• General cost of living in your new country.
• Cost of mortgage or renting a home.
• Cost of public transportation or to purchase / lease a vehicle.
• Income tax in your new country.

Top moving tip

Packing for an international move takes care and precision. All belongings must be wrapped and organised in a large metal, fiberglass, or plywood box that will be loaded into a shipping container.

It is best to hire a service to pack your belongings for you to ensure that they meet international standards for transport.