Shipping your belongings from the US to the UK doesn’t have to break the bank. This guide explores the most practical and affordable ways to move household goods across the Atlantic, including packing options, customs considerations and the pros and cons of sea vs air freight.
Moving internationally is rarely simple and shipping your household goods across the Atlantic can easily become expensive and logistically complex.
For Americans heading to the UK, choosing the right method to transport your belongings could significantly reduce both costs and stress.
Here’s a breakdown of the most effective and affordable ways to move your possessions from the US to the UK, based on current industry practices and the services offered by established international relocation providers.
Before you start comparing shipping methods, the first and most important step is deciding what’s truly worth bringing. The UK housing market is very different from much of the US: properties are generally smaller, with more limited storage space, narrower staircases, and less emphasis on open-plan layouts.
Simply put... that sofa you love might not fit in your new place.
Downsizing your shipment, both in volume and weight, can lead to dramatic savings in cost and stress.
Most international movers charge based on cubic metres (not weight), so anything bulky should be reconsidered. Use the move as an opportunity to sell, donate, or store non-essential items.
Read our article about how to choose what to take, store and sell >
For transatlantic moves, there are two primary options: sea freight and air freight.
Sea freight is by far the most common and cost-effective method for shipping large quantities of goods. Containers are loaded at your US address, shipped via port, and delivered to your UK home, usually over 6 to 8 weeks, though delays do happen.
Air freight, on the other hand, is fast (often under two weeks) but extremely expensive, charged by weight and volume. It’s typically reserved for urgent shipments or high-value small items.
In nearly all cases, choosing sea freight will offer the best balance of cost and practicality.
If you opt for sea freight, your choice will usually come down to full container load (FCL) or less-than-container load (LCL), often called groupage.
FCL means you pay for a dedicated container, usually 20ft or 40ft. It’s faster and reduces the risk of damage or delay since your belongings aren’t mixed with others.
LCL (groupage) involves sharing space with other customers. It’s the most common and economical option if you’re only shipping a few cubic metres, but it often comes with slower transit times, as containers wait to be filled before departure.
For many expats relocating solo or as a couple, groupage shipping is sufficient, though flexibility on timing is essential.
Packing is one area where costs can vary wildly. International moving companies typically offer professional packing services, which may include specialist crating for fragile or high-value items, custom inventory lists, and export wrapping to meet customs standards.
While this can feel like a luxury, professional packing offers two advantages:
That said, to reduce costs, consider a hybrid approach:
When importing personal belongings into the UK, you may be eligible for Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief, which allows you to bring in household goods without paying customs duties or import VAT, provided the items:
To avoid delays or unexpected charges:
Customs clearance is one of the most common points where costs escalate due to delays or incomplete paperwork, so it pays to be meticulous.
Shipping costs are affected not just by what and how much you’re sending, but when and where. Container prices fluctuate depending on demand, fuel prices, and global port activity.
Some strategies for keeping costs in check:
When choosing your removals company, ask for a fully itemised quote in writing that includes customs fees, delivery charges, port handling, demurrage (container delays), and insurance. Not all movers include these in headline prices, so comparison shopping can be misleading.
Many international movers offer short and long-term storage services on either side of your relocation. This is particularly useful if:
Staggering your move by arriving in the UK with only essentials in suitcases and receiving your main shipment later can reduce stress and give you greater flexibility.
When choosing storage options, look for secure, climate-controlled storage with transparent access policies and fees.
While we don’t endorse any single provider, there are a few core principles to follow when selecting a company:
Providers like Santa Fe Relocation and others offer international door-to-door services. But prices, service levels, and customer experience can vary, so don’t just go with the first quote.
Some companies offer a suite of add‑ons like short‑term storage, local orientation, destination support, and pet relocation, available on a modular basis so you only pay for what you need. Skip extra services if you don’t need them (e.g. unpacking, handyman, school search).
Shipping belongings from the US to the UK isn’t just a question of logistics—it’s a financial decision, a lifestyle consideration, and often a deeply personal process.
By understanding your options, decluttering early, and working with reputable partners, you can reduce costs and avoid pitfalls. Take time to plan carefully, clarify every cost, and stay flexible throughout.
You’ll not only protect your possessions, but also your peace of mind and your budget.
