The Top 5 Mistakes People Make During an International House Move

Moving abroad? You're in for quite the adventure.

What looks like a normal house move turns into a complete nightmare once you add international borders to the mix. We've moved hundreds of families worldwide, and the same problems keep happening over and over.

These are the big ones that'll cost you serious money and stress if you're not careful.

1. Leaving Everything Until the Last Minute

The reality check: International moves aren't like popping down the road with a hired van.

Picture this: It's six weeks before you fly out to Sydney. You ring a removal company expecting to book for next month.

Bad news. You're already cutting it fine.

Here's what most people don't realise: • Shipping containers operate on fixed schedules (not daily like domestic removals) • Customs paperwork can take weeks to process • Peak season bookings (May-September) fill up months in advance • Port delays are common—especially during bad weather

The fix: Start planning 8-12 weeks minimum before you move. Earlier for popular destinations like Australia or Canada.

Pro tip: Book your removal company first, then everything else. Getting shipping dates locked in gives you a realistic timeline for everything else.

2. Packing Banned Items (Then Acting Surprised)

What nobody tells you: Customs officials don't mess about.

Countries are incredibly strict about what crosses their borders. Even innocent-looking items can cause serious problems:

• Food items (even sealed packets) • Plants and seeds • Wooden items (especially untreated wood) • Certain electronics • Prescription medications • Alcohol over specific limits

Australia once quarantined an entire shipment because someone packed a single apple. These things happen more than you'd think.

The fix: Work with a removal company that actually knows customs regulations inside out. At Deliver1, we provide detailed prohibited items lists for every destination and guide you through the paperwork process—something many removal companies simply don't offer.

We'll tell you exactly what you can and can't take, handle all the customs documentation, and even arrange any special permits you might need. No surprises, no fines.

3. Choosing the Cheapest Quote (Then Regretting It)

The temptation: That quote that's £2,000 less than everyone else looks brilliant.

The reality: Cheap international removals are expensive in the long run.

Red flags to watch for: • Quotes significantly lower than competitors • Companies that won't visit your home for estimates • Vague terms about insurance coverage • No clear breakdown of costs • Pressure to sign immediately

The smart approach: Get 3-4 detailed quotes from established companies. Check reviews, ask for references, and make sure they're properly insured.

Look for companies that: • Visit your home for accurate estimates • Provide detailed breakdowns of all costs • Have proper international shipping licenses • Offer comprehensive insurance options • Can show you their track record

4. Underestimating Hidden Costs

The shock: Your £8,000 quote somehow becomes £12,000.

International moves have more potential extra costs than a budget airline. Things like: • Port handling charges • Customs duties and taxes • Storage fees (if there are delays) • Additional insurance • Specialist packing for fragile items • Delivery access charges at your new home

Some countries charge import duties on household goods. Others have seasonal price fluctuations. Many destinations require specific packing standards that cost extra.

The fix: Ask for a comprehensive quote that includes all potential extras. Question every line item. Get everything in writing.

At Deliver1, we provide detailed cost breakdowns upfront and explain exactly what you might face at your destination. No hidden surprises when the bill arrives.

5. Poor Communication and Tracking

The nightmare scenario: Your belongings disappear into a shipping void for weeks.

You've packed your entire life into a container. It gets collected, and then... silence.

Many removal companies go quiet once your goods are shipped. No tracking updates. No delivery windows. No idea if your belongings are sitting in customs or already at the destination port.

This lack of communication creates massive stress, especially when you're trying to coordinate your arrival with your belongings.

What you need: A removal company that keeps you informed every step of the way.

We provide: • Real-time tracking updates • Regular communication about delays or changes • Clear delivery windows • Direct contact with your move coordinator • Updates on customs clearance progress

The Bottom Line

International moves are complex, but they don't have to be stressful. Choose a removal company with genuine international expertise, start planning early, and don't cut corners on cost.

Your belongings deserve better than a budget gamble, and so do you.

Ready to move abroad? Get expert guidance from Deliver1's international removals specialists. We handle the complexity so you can focus on your new adventure.