Overseas Relocation Services — F Smith & Son
Moving abroad is one of the more logistically complex relocations a household can undertake. Packing and transport are just the starting point — an international move also involves customs documentation, shipping method decisions, agent networks at the destination end, and careful planning around your timeline. F Smith & Son has been handling overseas relocations for over 90 years and can manage the entire process from your current home to your new one, wherever in the world that may be.
How an International Move Works
The process follows a consistent sequence regardless of destination:
- Survey: A surveyor assesses your home — in person or via video — to calculate the volume and identify any items requiring specialist packing such as antiques, artwork, or pianos.
- Packing: Our crew packs your belongings using materials appropriate for long-distance transit. Export-standard packing applies to all sea freight consignments.
- Collection and shipping: Your goods are collected and transported to port for sea freight, or by road for European moves. Air freight is available for urgent or smaller consignments.
- Customs clearance: We coordinate customs documentation at the destination country. Having your paperwork in order in advance prevents delays at the border.
- Delivery and reinstatement: Our destination agents deliver and unpack your goods and reassemble any furniture that was dismantled for transit.
Sea Freight, Air Freight, or Road?
- Sea freight is the standard option for full household moves. Transit times range from four to six weeks for Europe and North America, to eight to twelve weeks for longer routes. It is significantly cheaper per cubic metre than air freight.
- Air freight is suited to smaller consignments where speed matters — typically five to ten days in transit. The cost per kilogram is much higher, so it is generally used for essential items rather than full household moves.
- European road freight: F Smith & Son operate weekly part loads to France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. This makes European moves cost-effective even for smaller volumes, as you are not paying for a full dedicated vehicle.
Documentation
Every international shipment requires documentation. The specifics vary by destination but typically include a detailed packing inventory, proof of residency or employment in the destination country, customs declaration forms, and passport copies. For moves outside the EU, import duty exemptions often apply when relocating your permanent residence — but the paperwork must be submitted correctly before the goods are shipped. We advise on destination-specific requirements when you enquire.
Moving to Europe After Brexit
Since Brexit, moves from the UK to EU countries now require customs documentation that was not previously necessary. Personal effects moving as part of a permanent relocation are generally exempt from import duties under Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief, but the declaration must be completed in advance and in the correct format. Our team handles these requirements as part of the move and will ensure you have everything needed before your goods are loaded.
Agent Networks
At the destination end, your goods are handled by bonded agents in our international network. We work with trusted agents worldwide who meet professional moving standards. This means F Smith & Son remains your single point of contact for the entire move, with accountability at both the origin and destination ends.
Planning Your Timeline
International moves benefit from an early start. The earlier you book your survey, the better your choice of shipping schedule — and the more time you have to resolve any documentation issues before your goods are loaded.
- 8–12 weeks before: Book your survey and confirm your removal date. Sea freight slots fill quickly, particularly in summer. Begin sorting and deciding what to take, sell, or donate.
- 4–6 weeks before: Confirm packing dates. Begin gathering documentation required by your destination country and notify your bank, HMRC, and the DVLA of your planned move.
- 2 weeks before: Confirm the final inventory. Set aside valuables, important documents, and anything you will carry personally rather than ship.
- Moving week: Defrost the freezer at least 48 hours before collection. Keep passports, customs paperwork, and your destination address details to hand on the day.
If your move involves a period in temporary accommodation or a gap between properties, F Smith & Son can arrange containerised storage at our Croydon depot as part of the same booking.
F Smith & Son are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and Which? Trusted Traders. For a free overseas removal quotation, contact our team. For more moving advice, visit the F Smith & Son Advice Hub.