Organising Successful Removals to the USA, Your Complete Reloux® Guide
- reloux®-GB
- 3 days ago
- 10 min read
Planning removals to the USA can feel overwhelming, especially when relocating to such a vast, diverse and fast-moving country. Whether you’re heading to New York, Florida, California, Texas, or any of the 50 states, preparation is key. At Reloux®, we have assisted thousands of families and professionals with seamless removals to the USA, ensuring a smooth, secure, and stress-free transition from the UK.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about planning, packing, customs, timelines and settling in—plus tailored insights for every state—so you can organise your removals to the USA with complete confidence.
insights and practical advice. Here’s to a successful and smooth move to USA!
1. Planning Your Move – The Foundation of Successful Removals to the USA
Every smooth relocation begins with proper planning. Creating a detailed timeline early allows you to manage paperwork, book freight space, and prepare your home.
Key steps include:
Research visa and immigration requirements for your destination state.
Choose a specialist international moving company experienced in removals to the USA.
Budget accurately for packing, shipping, customs, insurance, and delivery.
Declutter your items to reduce volume and save on costs.
Schedule a Reloux® video survey for an accurate cubic volume assessment.
For example, a recent Reloux® client moving from London to New Jersey began planning six months in advance, allowing time for ToR1, insurance, parking arrangements and booking their full container service.
2. Choosing the Right Partner – Why Reloux® Leads Removals to the USA
Selecting the correct relocation partner is crucial. A trusted international mover ensures your possessions travel safely from door to door.
What to look for:
Professional accreditations and reviews
Comprehensive insurance cover
Door-to-door or door-to-port options
Clear, transparent quotations
Expert assistance with U.S. customs procedures
Reloux® specialises in removals to the USA, offering dedicated crews, export-grade packing, wooden crating, secure storage-in-transit and complete customs support. With our experience across all 50 states, you receive end-to-end guidance tailored to your destination.
3. Packing Properly – Protecting Your Goods for Removals to the USA
International moves require export-standard materials and methods.
Reloux® recommends:
High-quality double-walled cartons
Custom wooden crates for fragile items (art, marble, chandeliers, pianos)
Detailed inventory lists
Clear labelling for customs
Disassembly of large furniture
Careful wrapping using bubble-wrap and packing paper
For removals to the USA, everything must be declared precisely. Reloux® creates a full export inventory to ensure compliance, smooth clearance, and safe handling at destination.
4. Understanding U.S. Customs – A Critical Step in Removals to the USA
Navigating U.S. customs is one of the most important parts of your relocation.
You will need:
Your passport and visa
A detailed inventory
Bill of lading or air waybill
Proof of residence in the USA
Details of any restricted goods (alcohol, food products, firearms, etc.)
Personal effects that have been owned and used for over one year are usually duty-free.
Reloux® manages all paperwork as part of our removals to the USA service, ensuring no delays or unexpected charges.
5. Moving to ALL 50 U.S. STATES – Reloux® State-by-State Guide
Every state has its own lifestyle, climate and logistics considerations. Whether your removals to the USA involves groupage, part-load or full-container shipping, Reloux® supports every destination:
Northeast:
New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, MaineUrban living, fast-paced environments, older properties requiring tricky access or smaller elevators.
South:
Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, West VirginiaWarm climates, gated communities, humidity-sensitive items require extra protection.
Midwest:
Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, KansasLong-distance inland transport; excellent for families; seasonal weather extremes.
West:
California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, New MexicoPopular for UK expats; some remote areas require shuttle services or longer delivery windows.
Alaska & Hawaii:Separate logistics routes; shipments usually move via California or Washington before final delivery.
Reloux® executes removals to the USA seamlessly regardless of your destination—urban apartments, suburban houses, remote properties or corporate relocations.
6. Delivery & Settling In – The Final Stage of Removals to the USA
Once your items arrive:
Unpack essentials first
Register with local authorities and healthcare
Set up utilities (electricity, water, Wi-Fi)
Explore your new community
Join local expat networks
Keep your Reloux® Move Manager updated for aftercare support
Reloux® offers unpacking, furniture reassembly, debris removal and optional storage-in-transit if your U.S. home is not yet ready.
7. Why Choose Reloux® for Your Removals to the USA?
Reloux® provides:
Professional export packing
Door-to-door service
Full marine insurance (MoveProtect™)
Customs clearance assistance
Storage in the UK and USA
Reliable partners across all 50 states
Flexible groupage, part-load and full-container services
We ensure your removals to the USA are handled with care, transparency, and professionalism from start to finish.
REMOVALS TO THE USA (50 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS)
1. How long do removals to the USA take from the UK?
Removals to the USA typically take 5–9 weeks door-to-door, depending on your destination and chosen shipping method. East Coast states such as New York, New Jersey, Virginia and Florida usually arrive sooner, while West Coast locations like California, Washington and Oregon may take slightly longer due to additional inland transport. Reloux® provides a clear timeline, vessel information, and continuous updates so you always know where your shipment is and when it will arrive.
2. How much do removals to the USA cost?
Costs vary depending on volume (CBM), destination state, service type, packing requirements and seasonal demand. A small part-load may cost significantly less than a private 20ft or 40ft container. Reloux® provides fully transparent, itemised quotations with export packing, customs support and delivery included, ensuring no hidden extras.
3. Do I need a visa before arranging removals to the USA?
You will need a valid USA visa suitable for your reason for moving—work, study, family reunion or residency. While Reloux® cannot provide immigration advice, we guide you on which documents are required for your household goods shipment and ensure everything complies with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
4. Are my belongings insured during shipping?
Yes. Reloux® offers MoveProtect™ Marine Insurance, covering your belongings against loss or damage throughout export packing, handling, sea freight, customs clearance and delivery. Your Move Manager will help you complete a simple value inventory so you have complete peace of mind.
5. Do I need a ToR1 to move to the USA?
No. ToR1 applies only when moving to the UK. For the USA, you simply need a completed Reloux® packing inventory and all required CBP forms, which we prepare and submit on your behalf.
6. Can Reloux® ship to all 50 U.S. states?
Yes — Reloux® provides nationwide USA relocation services including Alaska, Hawaii, and all inland states. Whether you’re moving to New York, Florida, Texas, California or a remote location in Wyoming or Idaho, our partners ensure smooth delivery.
7. What size container do I need for moving to the USA?
Most households use a 20ft container (30 CBM) or a 40ft container (60 CBM). Smaller shipments can go via groupage. Reloux® confirms your volume during a professional video survey and matches you to the most cost-effective solution.
8. Does Reloux® provide export packing?
Yes — Reloux® specialises in full export packing using international-standard materials, including specialist wrap, double-walled boxes, and bespoke wooden crates. This is essential for the long ocean journey and for smooth clearance at U.S. ports.
9. Can I send a part-load shipment to the USA?
Absolutely. Reloux® offers regular groupage (shared container) services for clients who only need to ship boxes or a small portion of household goods. This is a cost-efficient option without compromising service quality.
10. Do I need to be present for delivery in the USA?
Ideally, yes, but if this is not possible you may authorise someone to receive your shipment. Reloux® coordinates delivery with you or your nominated receiver to ensure everything arrives safely and on schedule.
11. What items are prohibited when shipping to the USA?
Prohibited items include food, liquids, aerosols, plants, seeds, chemicals, flammables, weapons, ammunition, candles, perishables and hazardous goods. Reloux® provides a full restricted-items list before packing to keep your shipment compliant.
12. Can I ship alcohol to the USA?
Alcohol imports are tightly regulated in the USA. Some states restrict or prohibit entry without special permits. Reloux® will advise you on whether it can be included depending on your destination and circumstances.
13. Are electrical items compatible in the USA?
The USA uses 110v power, different from the UK’s 220–240v. Some devices will work with an adapter or transformer, while others may not be compatible. Reloux® can advise you on which items are practical to ship.
14. Will Reloux® help with customs clearance?
Yes — Reloux® handles all customs documentation, submits all required forms to U.S. Customs, and communicates with port agents on your behalf. This ensures your goods clear quickly and without complications.
15. Do I pay duties when moving household goods?
Most clients do not pay duties, as used personal belongings (owned for 12+ months) usually enter the USA duty-free. Reloux® prepares the correct inventory format to ensure eligibility.
16. Can Reloux® move pets to the USA?
Yes — Reloux® partners with specialist, licensed pet relocation companies that handle pet documentation, vaccinations and safe travel arrangements.
17. Can Reloux® move cars or motorcycles to the USA?
Yes — Reloux® can arrange shipping for cars, motorcycles and classic vehicles. We provide full guidance on U.S. import compliance, emissions requirements and port fees.
18. How do I get a moving quote?
Simply schedule a Reloux® video survey. Our surveyors assess your volume, access conditions and packing needs to provide an accurate, transparent quote.
19. What’s the best time of year to move to the USA?
Moves can be arranged year-round, but summer is the busiest season. Booking well in advance helps secure your preferred dates and reduces peak-season port delays.
20. Do you offer storage in the UK before shipping?
Yes — Reloux® provides secure short- and long-term storage in our Dartford/London warehouse, ideal if your USA property is not yet ready.
21. Is storage available in the USA?
Yes — we offer storage-in-transit and long-term storage across major U.S. states through Reloux®’s accredited partners.
22. What documents do I need for USA customs?
You will need:
Passport
Visa or entry permit
Detailed Reloux® inventory
Packing list
USA customs forms (we prepare these)
Reloux® ensures all paperwork is accurate and submitted on time.
23. How is fragile artwork protected?
Reloux® uses bespoke wooden crates, foam lining, shock-resistant materials and climate-conscious packing methods to protect artworks, sculptures and valuables.
24. Does Reloux® handle piano moves?
Yes — our trained crews move upright and grand pianos with piano shoes, ramps, padding and custom crating where required.
25. Can I track my shipment?
Yes — Reloux® provides vessel tracking, port updates, customs progress and estimated arrival dates.
26. How early should I book my removals to the USA?
Ideally 4–12 weeks in advance. Early booking ensures availability and avoids peak-season delays.
27. Are there delays at U.S. ports?
Occasional delays happen due to weather, congestion or customs inspections. Reloux® monitors all USA ports daily and communicates updates to you immediately.
28. Do you dismantle and reassemble furniture?
Yes — Reloux® crews dismantle furniture during packing and reassemble it at your new home in the USA.
29. What if my USA address isn’t ready?
No problem — we can hold your goods in UK storage or USA storage-in-transit until your property becomes available.
30. Can you move me to remote U.S. areas?
Yes — we can deliver to rural or remote locations using shuttle vehicles or smaller trucks if large container lorries cannot access the property.
31. What states do most UK expats choose?
Popular destinations include Florida, California, Texas, New York, Washington, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and New Jersey. Reloux® supports moves to all 50 states.
32. How do you protect mattresses and sofas?
We use breathable export-grade mattress bags, quilted sofa protectors and reinforced wrapping, ensuring your items stay clean and safe during transit.
33. Do you handle high-value shipments?
Yes — Reloux® frequently moves antiques, sculptures, designer furniture and delicate collections, all with specialist packing and insurance.
34. Can Reloux® ship boxes only?
Yes — box-only or luggage-only shipments are available for smaller or temporary moves.
35. What is the difference between air and sea freight?
Air freight is fast (7–14 days) but more expensive.Sea freight is economical (5–9 weeks) and ideal for full household moves.Reloux® advises the best option depending on your timeframe and budget.
36. Are customs inspections common?
Random inspections can occur. Reloux® manages the process, paperwork, and liaison with CBP so you have minimal disruption.
37. Can I pack items myself?
You can, but export packing by Reloux® is strongly recommended for insurance, customs compliance and protection.
38. What is a groupage service?
Groupage means shared containers, allowing smaller moves to the USA at significantly reduced cost.
39. How do I pay for my move?
A 30% deposit secures your booking, with the balance due before shipping or as per your Reloux® invoice terms.
40. Do you offer corporate relocations to the USA?
Yes — Reloux® supports businesses, HR teams and assignees with fully managed corporate relocation programmes.
41. Can Reloux® ship a full house?
Absolutely — we regularly ship full 20ft and 40ft container loads for families relocating to the USA.
42. What ports do you ship to?
Major ports include:New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, Charleston, Seattle, Baltimore, Savannah, Oakland and more.
43. How do I prepare my appliances?
Appliances must be emptied, cleaned, disconnected and dry. Fridges and freezers must be defrosted 24 hours prior.
44. Do you move commercial items?
Yes — provided they comply with U.S. customs regulations. Reloux® will check documentation before accepting the goods.
45. Will humidity affect my goods?
Reloux® uses moisture-resistant materials, sealed wrapping and desiccants to protect your belongings from heat and humidity during ocean transport.
46. Can I change delivery dates?
Yes — changes can be arranged with reasonable notice. We work flexibly to accommodate your schedule.
47. Can you collect from multiple UK addresses?
Yes — Reloux® offers multi-point collection across the UK for households with belongings in more than one location.
48. How do you calculate volume?
Volume is calculated in cubic metres (CBM) during a Reloux® video survey. This ensures accurate pricing and container allocation.
49. Do you offer weekend collections?
Yes — weekend collections may be arranged upon request, subject to schedule and crew availability.
50. Why choose Reloux® for removals to the USA?
Reloux® combines professional export packing, USA customs expertise, insured transport, nationwide delivery and personalised Move Manager support, ensuring your relocation is secure, efficient and stress-free from start to finish.
Conclusion – Making Removals to the USA Smooth, Safe & Stress-Free
Moving overseas is a major life event, but with expert support, it becomes a positive and exciting experience. Reloux® has years of proven experience delivering secure, efficient and customer-focused removals to the USA, whether you’re relocating household goods, a family home, a professional assignment, or starting fresh in one of America’s 50 states.
If you’re planning removals to the USA, Reloux® is here to guide you every step of the way—helping you settle into your new chapter with confidence and peace of mind.
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