Moving to the USA from UK: The Complete Guide by Reloux®
- reloux®-GB
- Nov 6
- 14 min read
Moving to USA from UK is a life-changing decision — and at Reloux®, we’ve helped hundreds of UK families with removals to USA from UK, international removals UK to USA and everything in between. This guide is your go-to resource for moving to America from UK: shipping furniture to USA from UK, cost of moving to USA from UK, UK to USA shipping container cost, how to move to USA from UK, and UK to USA visa process.
Why choose America for your international move?
There are many compelling reasons for relocating from the UK to the USA:
The opportunities: whether it’s work, lifestyle or education, moving from UK to USA checklist often begins with the idea of new possibilities.
The geography: From the buzzing streets of New York City, to the sunshine of Los Angeles, to the tech-hub of San Francisco, to the tree-lined suburbs of Chicago, each major city in America offers something different.
The lifestyle: Many UK citizens feel drawn to the wide-open spaces of states like Florida, the entrepreneurial atmosphere of Texas, the cultural diversity of Illinois, and the innovation in California.
The relocation support: That’s where Reloux® comes in — expert international moving companies UK to USA trusted for shipping to USA from UK, removals to USA from UK, and full end-to-end service.
At Reloux®, our service for international removals UK to USA covers your door-to-door move, UK to USA shipping container cost advice, customs support, furniture shipping, car import, and more. We ensure your move to USA from UK is as seamless as possible.
What major US cities and states should UK movers consider?
When deciding on your move from UK to USA, knowing the major cities and states matters. Here’s a quick overview of some popular destinations with UK-to-USA movers:
Moving to New York (State: New York) – Global hub, banking, media, finance, cosmopolitan living.
Shipping to Los Angeles from London (State: California) – Entertainment, sunshine, creative industries.
Moving to San Francisco (State: California) – Tech centre, startup culture, Bay Area lifestyle.
Removals to Chicago (State: Illinois) – Mid-west location, strong business hub, more affordable than coastal cities.
Relocation to Houston / Dallas / Austin (State: Texas) – Tech growth, energy sector, lower cost of living.
House move to Miami / Orlando (State: Florida) – Sunshine, tourism, strong Caribbean/British expat influence.
Move cost to Seattle (State: Washington) – Tech giants, nature, West Coast appeal.
Removals Boston from UK (State: Massachusetts) – Academic institutions, historic city, East Coast charm.
By working with Reloux® you can select your target city and state, and our logistics team will tailor your international removals UK to USA plan accordingly, including advice on shipping to USA from UK, furniture import, customs clearance, and UK to USA shipping container cost.
Planning your move: Step-by-step guide
1. Define Your Destination
Decide exactly where you’re moving to in the USA. Whether it’s New York, California, Texas or Florida, the choice will affect the cost of moving to USA from UK, shipping to USA from UK costs, local regulations and lifestyle.
2. Understand the visa/immigration component
To live in the USA as a UK citizen you’ll often need a visa or immigrant status.
Your UK to USA visa process may include employer-sponsorship, family sponsorship or other immigrant categories.
For entry alone (temporary visits) you can use ESTA, but this does not allow long-term relocation.
3. Get a moving quote with Reloux®
As one of the best moving companies UK to USA, Reloux® offers a full quote for international removals UK to USA: packing, shipment (shipping container or LCL – less than container load), customs clearance, destination delivery.
4. Packing & Shipping
Decide whether you’ll ship furniture to USA from UK or whether you’ll purchase new in the USA.
Get an estimate of the UK to USA shipping container cost (varies by volume, port, destination).
Reloux® will handle packing, crating, export documentation, loading, sea freight, and destination delivery.
Shipping to USA from UK lead-times: often 4-12 weeks depending on schedule, port and final state.
5. Customs, duties & import regulations
When moving to the USA from UK, you must check what items can/cannot be brought in. The UK GOV guidance for living in the USA warns about items, healthcare, driving and tax issues.
6. Arrival & settling in
Once your shipment arrives, Reloux® will handle destination unloading, unpacking, and advice on local requirements: e.g., how to drive in the USA with a UK licence, open a US bank account, etc. We include support with your moving from UK to USA checklist.
Infographic – Moving to USA from UK: Key Facts
The Cost of Moving to USA from UK
When you’re considering cost of moving to USA from UK, these are the key line-items:
Shipping to USA from UK (sea freight for a full container vs shared container)
UK to USA shipping container cost (the container itself + loading & export)
Destination charges in the USA (import customs, duty, delivery)
Relocation support fees (services by Reloux®: packing, collection, destination unloading)
Travel and settling costs (housing deposit, utilities, licence conversion, insurance)
We provide transparent quotes for removals to USA from UK and international removals UK to USA, so you know what to expect up-front.
Why Reloux® is Your Go-To for International Removals UK to USA
At Reloux® we specialise in moving to USA from UK, removals to USA from UK, shipping furniture to USA from UK and end-to-end support.
We hold decades of experience with UK to USA moves and understand state-by-state differences.
As one of the best moving companies UK to USA, we deliver a full service: packing, shipping, customs, settling in.
We work with reliable carriers, overseas agents, and handle UK to USA shipping container cost management, to give you the best value.
We support your “how to move to USA from UK” journey with guidance on visas, relocation checklists, destination logistics.
Our UK-based team plus US partner network means your move from UK to USA is coordinated smoothly from start to finish.
FAQ – Moving to the USA from the UK
Here are the popular questions people search for online — answered by Reloux® for your UK to USA relocation.
How do I move to the USA from the UK?
Your first step is to decide your destination in the USA, determine your visa status and work with an international moving company like Reloux® for removals to USA from UK. Then you arrange shipping (shipping to USA from UK or UK to USA shipping container cost), pack, export, clear customs and deliver to your new home in the USA.
What are the requirements to move to the USA from the UK?
Requirements include a valid passport, appropriate visa for relocation (not just travel), proof of employment or sponsorship (depending on route), and coordination of your international removals UK to USA including shipping furniture to USA from UK and customs clearance.
What is the process for moving to the USA from the UK?
The process typically involves: choose destination → get visa sorted → get quote from removals company → pack & load → ship your goods (shipping furniture to USA from UK) → clear customs in the USA → deliver & settle in.
What visa do I need to move to the USA from the UK?
It depends. For permanent relocation you’ll need an immigrant visa (Green Card/immigrant status) or other qualifying visa (employment-based, family-based). For short term you may use non-immigrant visa but that won’t allow full relocation.
Do UK citizens need a visa to live in the USA?
Yes. If you plan to live long-term, work or settle, you typically need a visa or Green Card. A visa waiver like ESTA is only for short-term visits.
How do I apply for a US visa from the UK?
You apply via the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and/or the U.S. Department of State Immigrant Visa process. For example, petition is submitted, then National Visa Center (NVC) processing, then visa interview at the US Embassy in London.
How do I apply for a US work visa as a British citizen?
You must secure a job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor you and then apply through the relevant employment-based visa categories (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, etc).
Can a British citizen move to the USA?
Yes. British citizens can move to the USA via the proper visa route(s) and then coordinate their move with removals to USA from UK (through companies like Reloux®) to handle shipping to USA from UK, furniture, customs and settling in.
Is it difficult to move to the USA from the UK?
It depends on your personal circumstances (visa category, job offer, family etc). The relocation and removals to USA from UK process is complex but manageable with planning and a specialist partner like Reloux®.
Is it worth moving to the USA from the UK?
For many people yes — the lifestyle, career, climate and living options are attractive. But you must factor in the cost of moving to USA from UK, UK to USA shipping container cost, and adapting to a new tax, healthcare and driving system.
What is the easiest way to move to America from the UK?
The easiest way is when you have a job offer (work visa) or immediate family in the USA (family-sponsored visa), and a removals company in the UK experienced in UK to USA moves (like Reloux®) handles your shipping to USA from UK and logistics.
Can I move to the USA without a job?
Yes — in some visa categories you do not need a job offer (for example investor visas, family sponsorship or Green Card lottery).
Do I need a job offer to move to the USA?
For many common paths (employment-based visas) yes you do, but not all. There are routes for family-sponsor, investor, or other categories not necessarily requiring a job offer.
How can I move to the USA permanently?
You may apply for an immigrant visa (Green Card) through family, employment or other qualified categories, and then coordinate your removals to USA from UK and international moving companies UK to USA for your relocation logistics.
How can I get a Green Card as a UK citizen?
You must identify a qualifying category (family, employment, investment, Diversity Visa lottery), submit the correct petition, follow the consular processing if outside the USA, attend the interview, then once approved you become Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder).
What is the Green Card Lottery?
Also known as the Diversity Visa Program, this is a lottery scheme that allows citizens of eligible countries (including the UK) to apply for a Green Card.
Can UK citizens apply for the US Green Card lottery?
Yes — UK citizens are eligible to apply for the Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery) if the UK is listed as eligible in the given year.
How long can a British citizen stay in the US without a visa?
Typically up to 90 days via ESTA under the Visa Waiver Programme, but this is for short stays only and not for permanent relocation.
Can I travel to the USA without a visa?
You can travel under ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) if eligible and staying short-term, but you cannot live or work permanently under ESTA.
Is an ESTA required if I have a US visa?
No. If you have a valid US visa for your purpose of travel or relocation, you do not also need ESTA.
Does a visa guarantee entry into the US?
No — while a visa allows you to request admission, final entry is determined at the border by US Customs & Border Protection officers.
How much does it cost to move to the USA from the UK?
Costs vary widely depending on destination, volume, shipping method, and services. Key costs include shipping to USA from UK, UK to USA shipping container cost, removal services by Reloux®, travel and settling-in expenses.
How much money do I need to move to the USA?
You should budget for shipping, removal, settling-in costs (housing deposit, utilities, vehicle, licence conversion), visa/immigration fees, and living costs until you are fully settled.
How much does it cost to immigrate to America?
Immigration cost includes visa application fees, potentially investment (for investor visas), relocation shipping, etc. The exact cost depends on method (employment, family, investor, lottery).
How much does it cost to ship furniture from the UK to the USA?
Shipping furniture to USA from UK depends on volume, container size, origin UK port, destination US port, and additional delivery. Reloux® will provide a tailored quote.
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to the USA?
Shipping a car adds complexity (import duties, compliance, shipping cost) and is typically higher than standard furniture shipping. Reloux® can assist with this as part of your international removals UK to USA.
How long does shipping take from the UK to the USA?
Transit time depends on port and service: sea freight may take 4-12 weeks from UK to USA, plus inland delivery.
What is the cheapest way to move from the UK to the USA?
Cost-saving tips: choose shared container groupage container rather than full container if your volume is small, declutter before shipping, ship only essential items, compare international moving companies UK to USA (Reloux® will provide transparent quotes), choose less busy ports or off-peak shipping.
What are the best international moving companies from the UK to the USA?
Look for companies with proven experience in UK to USA relocation, full end-to-end service, transparent cost, strong reviews, customs expertise. Reloux® is one of the best moving companies UK to USA with dedicated UK-USA infrastructure and expert teams.
How do I ship my belongings to the USA from the UK?
Contact a specialist international moving company (like Reloux®), obtain a survey for volume, decide container size, pack and load your goods in the UK, ship to the USA, clear customs, deliver to final address.
Should I ship my furniture or buy new in the USA?
It depends on cost comparison: shipping to USA from UK may be expensive for bulky/low-value items, so you might prefer to ship only sentimental/high-value items and buy everyday furniture in the USA. Reloux® can advise you based on your inventory and UK to USA shipping container cost.
How much is a shipping container from the UK to the USA?
The cost varies by size (20-ft vs 40-ft), origin port, destination port, and shipping carrier. Seek a quote from a specialist like Reloux® for accurate UK to USA shipping container cost.
Do I have to pay customs duties on personal belongings when moving to the USA?
Some personal effects may enter duty-free if you are relocating residence to the USA, but rules vary by state and import category. Always get specialist advice.
What items are prohibited to bring into the USA from the UK?
Prohibited items can include certain foodstuffs, plants, animal products, firearms, hazardous materials, and items restricted by US government. Always check current regulations.
What can’t I bring to America when moving?
You cannot bring items that violate US import laws: e.g., certain agricultural items, animals without quarantine, some plants/products, and any items subject to embargo or control.
Can I move my pet to the USA?
Yes, but you must meet specific requirements: microchip, vaccinations (especially rabies), valid health certificate, import permit (depending on state).
What are the requirements to bring a pet from the UK to the USA?
Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated, have health certificate, meet the destination state’s rules. Reloux® can coordinate this alongside your removals to USA from UK.
How do I pack for moving to the USA?
Use professional packing standards for international shipping: robust crates for furniture, shrink-wrap, individual cartons for fragile items, labelled clearly. Reloux® offers expert packing in UK and destination unpacking in USA.
What is the best way to pack for an international move?
Work with your movers to organise a pre-move survey, use quality packing materials, segregate items by room/room code, create an inventory list, and retain a copy of your shipping documents.
Will my UK appliances work in the USA?
Probably not without modification: US power is 120 V, UK is 230 V. Many UK appliances may require transformers or may not be compatible. Consider shipping only select items and buying the rest in the USA.
Can I use my UK electronics in the USA?
Same issue: voltage and plug differences. Ensure items are dual-voltage or budget to replace. INCLUDE this in your shipping decision.
How do I get a US driver’s licence after moving?
You’ll need to apply in the state where you become resident. Driving rules vary state-by-state (each US state issues its own driver’s licence). The UK GOV guidance mentions driving in USA with a UK licence is not always straightforward.
Can I drive in the USA with a UK driving licence?
You may use your UK licence temporarily in some states, but for long-term residency you will generally need a state driver’s licence.
How do I open a bank account in the USA as a UK expat?
You will typically need proof of US address, social security number (or individual taxpayer number), passport, and a US bank that accepts foreign nationals. Reloux® provides relocation support guidance as part of our comprehensive service.
How is healthcare in the USA different from the UK?
In the UK you’re used to the NHS; in the USA you’ll need private healthcare insurance. The UK GOV article on living in the USA explains the need for health insurance when moving.
Do I need health insurance when moving to the USA?
Yes. For most British expats moving to USA from UK, having comprehensive health insurance is essential to avoid high medical costs.
How do I get health insurance in the USA?
You can get employer-sponsored insurance, private expat insurance, or purchase through state exchanges (depending on your visa/immigration status). It’s essential to research before arrival.
What is the cost of living in the USA compared to the UK?
It varies widely by state and city. Some US cities are more affordable (e.g., parts of Texas, Florida) while others are more expensive (e.g., California, New York). Factor this into your moving to USA from UK budget.
What should I know before moving to America?
Know your destination state laws, housing market, visa/immigration obligations, shipping and customs for your belongings, tax/residency effects, healthcare insurance, driving licence conversion — and work with a specialist removals partner (Reloux®) for shipping furniture to USA from UK, cost of moving to USA from UK, and UK to USA shipping container cost.
Is there a checklist for moving to the USA from the UK?
Yes — your moving from UK to USA checklist should include: visa/immigration steps, housing selection, removals quote from international moving companies UK to USA, shipping of personal effects and furniture, customs/import plan, healthcare & insurance planning, driving licence, bank account, school (if children), pets transport, UK exit formalities.
What do I need to do after moving to the USA?
Set up your new home (utilities, bank account, driver’s licence, insurance), unpack and settle your shipment (Reloux® handles deliveries), register for social security number (if eligible), familiarise yourself with your local state laws, drive legally, register your vehicle, get health insurance, connect with community.
How do I get a Social Security Number in the US?
You need to apply via the Social Security Administration once your visa/immigration status allows. The specifics depend on your visa category.
How do I find a job in the USA as a British citizen?
Jobs for British citizens normally require visa sponsorship. Use job platforms, network and ensure potential employers understand your visa requirements. Once offer secured you can use that for your moving to USA from UK plan.
What are the best places to live in the USA for British expats?
Popular states & cities include California (San Francisco, Los Angeles), Florida (Miami, Orlando), Texas (Austin, Dallas), New York (New York City), Illinois (Chicago), Washington (Seattle) — each offering different lifestyle, cost, climate, and expat communities.
Can I retire to the USA from the UK?
Yes — though the visa/immigration route differs for retirees (e.g., investor visa, family route). You should plan your cost of moving to USA from UK, UK to USA shipping container cost, health insurance and relocation logistics with a specialist.
Do I still pay UK taxes if I move to the USA?
Possibly. Tax residence rules depend on how long you were in the UK, your domicile, and your US tax obligations. It’s wise to seek tax advice prior to moving.
How do I transfer money from the UK to the USA?
Use an international bank transfer or specialist currency service. Compare fees and exchange rates. Factor this into your settling-in cost when moving to USA from UK.
What documents do I need to move my household goods to the USA from the UK?
Essential Documents that required for Moving Household Goods to the USA:
Copy of Passport
U.S. Visa or Residency Proof
Detailed Packing List / Inventory- Reloux will provide
Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles (CBP Form 3299)
Power of Attorney (POA)
Can Reloux® help me prepare all required documents?
Absolutely. Reloux® provides a complete documentation service for removals to USA from UK, guiding you step-by-step with forms, packing lists, and customs clearance support so your goods arrive safely and without delay.
🚫 Prohibited or Restricted Items
You cannot include:
Fresh food, soil, plants, seeds, or animal products
Flammable or hazardous materials
Ammunition, firearms (without import licence)
Medication without prescription or approval
If you are serious about moving to USA from UK, working with a trusted specialist like Reloux® will make all the difference. From the initial quote, UK to USA shipping container cost, shipping furniture to USA from UK, to customs clearance and delivery in your chosen US city — we cover every step of international removals UK to USA. Start planning early, use our checklist, understand your visa/immigration requirements and budget carefully — and you’ll be well-on-your-way to your new life in America.
Reloux® is here to guide you through your move from UK to USA with ease, expertise and care.
Reloux® – Your partner for UK to USA relocation.
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