How an international move works, step by step.
Moving internationally involves many stages. Terra Relocations manages each one — from initial consultation through final delivery — so you understand what is happening, what comes next, and what to expect at every point.
Consultation & Estimate
Your move starts with a conversation. Tell Terra your origin, destination, timeline, and what you are moving. Share photos, video, or a detailed inventory of your household. Terra reviews the details and provides a customized planning range or formal quote based on estimated volume, service level, and route.
There is no generic calculator — every international move is different. Terra explains what is included in the quote, what is not included, and what variables may affect the final cost.
Visual Inventory & Survey
Terra reviews your home contents through photos, video walkthrough, or phone consultation. For larger moves, an in-person or detailed virtual survey may be recommended. The goal is to build an accurate volume estimate so your quote reflects reality.
Accurate inventory prevents surprises at pickup. Terra documents room-by-room contents and notes special items like pianos, fine art, antiques, or oversized furniture that may require custom crating.
Customized Quote
Based on the inventory, Terra provides a quote that explains volume, service level, freight method, packing scope, access conditions, storage needs, and destination requirements. Inclusions and exclusions are listed clearly.
Quotes may be provided as planning ranges or binding estimates depending on the level of inventory detail available. Terra does not use bait-and-switch pricing.
Service Agreement
Once you are ready to proceed, Terra provides a service agreement outlining the scope, timeline, pricing structure, payment schedule, and cancellation terms. Deposits are refundable if canceled at least 4 business days before the scheduled pickup date.
The service agreement is your reference document throughout the move. Terra reviews it with you to ensure every detail is understood before packing begins.
Pickup Scheduling
Terra coordinates the pickup date based on your timeline, freight schedules, and destination customs requirements. Your dedicated coordinator confirms the date, crew size, and expected duration of the packing and loading process.
Pickup dates may be adjusted if there are changes to your timeline or freight availability. Terra communicates any schedule changes promptly.
Professional Packing & Inventory
On pickup day, a trained packing crew arrives with export-grade materials. Every item is wrapped, packed, and labeled according to international shipping standards. A detailed packing inventory is created for customs and insurance purposes.
You choose the packing level: full professional packing, partial packing (fragile items only), or self-packed boxes with Terra inspection. Custom crating is built on-site or at the warehouse for pianos, fine art, marble, glass, and oversized items.
Volume Verification & Authorization
If your move is quoted on an estimated volume basis, Terra monitors volume during packing and loading. If the estimated volume is reached before all items are packed, Terra stops and contacts you for authorization before adding more items.
You remain in control of your shipment scope and cost. No items are added beyond the quoted volume without your explicit approval. This protects you from unexpected charges.
Warehouse & Storage
If timing requires it, your packed belongings are transported to a secure warehouse for temporary storage before freight departure. Storage may also be used at the destination while customs clearance is processed.
Storage facilities are climate-appropriate and secured. Terra provides storage timelines and costs before booking.
Export & Customs Documentation
Terra prepares all export documentation including the packing inventory, bill of lading, customs declaration, and any required forms for the destination country. Documentation is reviewed before the shipment departs.
Proper documentation prevents customs delays at destination. Terra coordinates with licensed customs brokers and destination agents to ensure paperwork meets current requirements.
Ocean, Air, or Ground Freight
Your shipment is booked on the appropriate freight service based on your route, timeline, and budget. Options include full container load (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL), consolidation (GRP), air freight, or ground transportation.
Transit times vary by route and method: ocean freight typically ranges from 2 to 12 weeks, air freight from 1 to 2 weeks. Terra provides tracking information and transit updates.
Destination Customs Clearance
Upon arrival, Terra coordinates with the destination customs broker to process import clearance. Documentation prepared at origin is presented to customs authorities. Duties, taxes, or inspections may apply depending on the destination country and client status.
Customs clearance timelines vary by country. Some destinations process within days; others may take several weeks. Terra monitors the process and communicates updates.
Final Delivery & Setup
Once customs clears your shipment, Terra coordinates local delivery to your new home. The delivery crew unloads, places furniture, and can unwrap items. Optional white glove service includes full unpacking, assembly, and debris removal.
Delivery logistics at destination may include elevator reservations, parking coordination, and access scheduling. Terra works with local agents to ensure smooth final-mile delivery.
You stay in control of your volume and cost.
If your move is quoted on an estimated volume, Terra monitors the packing and loading process. When the estimated volume is reached, Terra stops and contacts you for authorization before adding any additional items to the shipment.
This means you decide whether to include more items at the current rate, adjust the scope, or leave items behind. You are never surprised by volume overages after the fact.
This policy reflects Terra's commitment to transparency. International moving should never feel like a guessing game.
What you need to get started.
Your Origin Address
Where you are moving from, including access details like stairs, elevators, parking, and building restrictions.
Your Destination
The country and city you are moving to. If your exact address is not confirmed yet, the city or region is enough to start.
Your Timeline
When you need to move out, when you need items to arrive, and any flexibility in dates.
Home Size & Contents
Number of rooms, approximate furniture count, and any special items like pianos, artwork, or vehicles.
Photos or Video
A walkthrough showing room-by-room contents helps Terra build an accurate volume estimate.
Entry Documentation
Your visa type, residency documentation, or entry status at the destination affects customs documentation and potential duty exemptions.
Start planning your international move.
Share your details and Terra will provide a customized estimate based on your origin, destination, timeline, and household inventory.