What export packing is
Export packing is the heavier-duty packing used for international moves. Your belongings may travel for weeks, be handled several times and face changes in temperature and humidity, so everything is packed to a higher standard than for a local move.
How it differs
- Stronger materials: double-wall boxes, thicker paper and more padding.
- Wrapped furniture: furniture is wrapped in layers of paper, padding and plastic or cardboard, rather than just blankets.
- Wooden crates: custom crates for valuable, fragile or awkward items such as artwork, glass and marble.
- Numbered inventory: every item and box is numbered and listed for customs and insurance.
How your goods travel
| Method | Best for |
|---|---|
| Dedicated road vehicle | Europe, whole homes and fixed dates |
| Shared load (groupage) | Smaller moves and flexible dates |
| 20 ft container | Roughly a 1 to 2-bedroom home by sea |
| 40 ft container | Roughly a 3 to 4-bedroom home by sea |
| Air freight | Small, urgent shipments |
Container capacity depends on furniture and packing. Your mover will confirm after a survey.
Items you usually cannot ship
- Flammable and hazardous items: paint, aerosols, gas bottles, fuel and chemicals.
- Food, plants and seeds are restricted in many countries.
- Cash, jewellery and important documents should travel with you.
- Some countries restrict alcohol, medicines and weapons.
Insurance
Ask for marine or transit insurance covering the whole journey, on a full value basis, and keep a copy of the inventory with values.
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Compare up to 5 quotesFrequently asked questions
Do I need export packing for a move to Europe?
Often a lighter version is used for road moves to Europe, especially with a dedicated vehicle. Sea freight and long-haul moves need full export packing.
Can I pack my own boxes for an international move?
Sometimes, but customs and insurers may treat owner-packed boxes differently. Ask your mover before you decide.
Useful pages
