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Moving abroad is one of the most exciting decisions you can make, but also one of the most expensive if you go in without a plan. Whether you’re relocating for work, chasing a lower cost of living, or simply ready for a change of scenery, leaving the US means navigating logistics most people have never dealt with before: shipping containers, customs duties, and quotes that can vary by thousands of dollars depending on who you ask.
To help you navigate these logistics better, this guide explains what influences international moving costs, international moving costs by destination and home size, pet shipping rates, vehicle shipping rates, and how to save on moving costs with accurate quotes and smart planning.
In 2026, moving abroad from the US typically costs from $6,500 to $16,500, depending mostly on the distance, volume, and type of transport you use.
Specifically, international moving costs are often based on:
Costs vary widely depending on where you’re headed and on whether you’re moving from the East or West Coast. Here’s what the typical moving costs from the US look like to some destinations in North and South America, Australia, and Asia:
| Destination | West Coast | East Coast |
| Ottawa, Canada | $3,000–$6,000 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Canberra, Australia | $7,000–$14,000 | $8,000–$16,000 |
| CDMX, Mexico | $3,000–$6,500 | $4,000–$7,500 |
| Dubai, UAE | $6,000–$12,000 | $5,500–$11,000 |
Note: These prices are estimates and were last updated in May 2026.
Moving to Europe from the US typically costs between $6,000 and $12,000, depending mostly on the size of your move, the container you use, the destination, and the level of service you choose.
The following table shows a cost breakdown by destination in Europe and departure coast:
| Destination | West Coast | East Coast |
| Paris, France | $8,200 – $11,100 | $6,800 – $9,300 |
| London, UK | $7,900 – $10,800 | $6,500 – $8,900 |
| Madrid, Spain | $7,800 – $10,600 | $6,500 – $8,900 |
| Amsterdam, the Netherlands | $7,900 – $10,800 | $6,500 – $8,800 |
| Berlin, Germany | $8,000 – $10,900 | $6,700 – $9,100 |
Note: These prices are estimates and were last updated in May 2026.
The size of your home plays a major role in your total moving cost. More rooms means more volume, and more volume means higher shipping costs. Here’s what you can expect to pay based on the number of bedrooms:
| Home Size | Estimated Cost |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,600 – $5,700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,200 – $7,800 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,200 – $10,400 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $10,400 – $15,600 |
Note: These prices are estimates and were last updated in May 2026.
Looking to estimate your international moving costs? Use the form below to compare personalized moving quotes from trusted, certified international moving companies.
Fill in your moving details on origin, destination, and move size in a couple of minutes, and receive up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes to help you make an informed decision.
The most affordable method to ship belongings abroad is sea freight, particularly shared containers, where you only pay for the volume you use.
Here are some tips to save on overseas shipping:
Shipping pets abroad can cost $2,000 to $6,000, depending on breed, crate size, and destination.
Pet shipping costs include:
Shipping a car overseas typically costs $1,200 to $5,500, depending mainly on vehicle size, destination, and delivery method:
Read our international car shipping guide to learn more about how it works, what it costs, and how to prepare for it.
The average cost to move furniture from the US overseas is around $6,600 for a standard 2-bedroom home.
The factors influencing international moving costs also apply here, these being:
Keep in mind that shipping specialty items such as pianos or artwork also adds to international moving costs:
For step-by-step packing tips and detailed cost breakdowns, check out our full guide to moving household furniture overseas.
Besides the volume, container size, shipping method, destination, and moving services selected, there are several additional costs to consider when planning an international move.
Choosing the right international moving company can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth, stress-free relocation. Here are some of the best international moving companies for 2026, verified by Sirelo.
Now that you know all possible costs for moving internationally, you can start planning the budget for your move. If you still have doubts, check our related articles and our FAQ section.
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