Moving to London sounds like a dream come true – but before you start packing your bags and planning your new life in the UK, there’s one critical step in the relocation process you shouldn’t leave to the last minute: shipping your household belongings.
Relocation shipping is much more than sending a few boxes – it requires understanding shipping routes, timelines, customs regulations, and choosing the right shipping service. Smart planning and the right decisions can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about relocation shipping to London – including shipping methods, packing tips, customs requirements, and practical recommendations to help you move smoothly and securely.
Relocation Shipping to London – How to Move Smart, Efficiently, and Cost-Effectively
Planning a relocation to London? Here’s how to make shipping the easiest part of the move
Relocating to London is a dream for many – whether it's for a new job, advanced studies, or simply the desire to live in a vibrant city full of opportunities. But a move like this involves much more than just booking a plane ticket. One of the most important steps is organizing the international shipping of your personal belongings.
Relocation shipping isn’t something to leave to the last minute. It’s essential to choose the right shipping method, pack wisely, understand the destination country’s regulations, and know what options are available to you.
At ShippingToGo, we offer the best prices and service on the market, with every customer receiving a dedicated personal representative who guides them throughout the process, helps select the best shipping solution, answers any questions, and ensures everything goes smoothly.
What does the international shipping process for relocation to London include?
Choosing your shipping method – Sea or air?
The first step is selecting the shipping method that suits your needs. If you're sending only a few items, or if there’s urgency, air freight will be the fastest option. It usually takes about 3–7 business days, depending on the provider and destination.
If you're moving an entire household – including furniture, appliances, clothes, books, and personal equipment – sea freight to London will be the more affordable and practical option. Delivery takes longer (about 3–5 weeks on average), but the cost is significantly lower.
Your ShippingToGo personal representative will help you choose the best option based on your budget, the type of goods, and your desired delivery timeframe.
Smart Packing = Saving Time and Money
Successful shipping starts with smart packing. Many shipping companies calculate costs based on a combination of weight and volume, so the more compact your packing – the more you save.
Here are a few tips for efficient packing:
Disassemble furniture where possible (beds, tables, shelves).
Pack by category – clothing, documents, electronics – and label each box accordingly.
Use high-quality packing materials – strong boxes, bubble wrap, vacuum bags for bulky clothes.
Consider mixing personal boxes with professional-grade crates – this helps maximize volume.
Avoid empty space in boxes – fill gaps with soft items like clothes or bedding.
What should you know about regulations and customs when shipping to London?
UK Customs – The Essentials
The UK requires a detailed and accurate inventory of every item in your shipment, including estimated values. In some relocation cases, you may qualify for tax exemption, but this must be checked in advance with local authorities or online resources.
Every shipment must include a Packing List, and sometimes also a declaration of purpose – such as “household move” or “personal use only.” In most cases, shipments are cleared without issues when documentation is accurate and boxes are clearly labeled.
Insurance – Not mandatory, but strongly recommended
Especially with a major transition like relocation, it’s important to ensure that your valuable items are protected along the way. While international shipping generally runs smoothly, there’s always some risk of loss, damage, or delays.
You can add insurance based on the value of your goods – whether it’s decor, jewelry, electronics, or sentimental items. If you have specific valuables that need extra attention, consider a dedicated insurance policy.
FAQ – Everything You Wanted to Know About Relocation Shipping to London
Q: Can I ship an entire household to London?
A: Absolutely. Sea freight is ideal for large volumes like furniture, appliances, and many boxes. You can also combine it with air freight for urgent items.
Q: Will I have personal support throughout the process?
A: Yes! At ShippingToGo, every customer is assigned a personal representative who helps at every stage – from selecting services to delivery at your new address.
Q: What should I check before packing?
A: It's important to verify which items are allowed, pack in a way that protects the contents, and document each box in a detailed Packing List.
Q: Is shipping insurance required?
A: No, but it’s highly recommended – especially if you're sending valuable or important items. Insurance provides protection in case of loss or damage during transport.
Shipping Preparation Table – What to Check Before Relocation to London
| What to Check | Why It Matters | Tip from ShippingToGo |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping method: air or sea | Affects pricing and delivery time | Sea freight is best for full households, air for small or urgent items |
| Shipping duration | Plan ahead based on your move-in date | Sea freight takes 3–5 weeks, air freight 3–7 business days |
| Which items can be shipped | Avoid customs delays or restricted items | Don’t send food, lithium batteries, liquids, or prohibited goods |
| How to pack correctly | Impacts item safety and shipping costs | Use quality boxes, bubble wrap for fragile items, label every box |
| Detailed inventory (Packing List) | Required by UK customs | Document each box – what's inside and its estimated value |
| Content insurance | Protects against damage, loss, or delays | Strongly recommended for valuable or sentimental items |
| Advance coordination | Ensures smooth process and timely shipping | Your personal representative will make sure everything is on track |
Article Summary
Relocating to London is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning – especially when it comes to international shipping. Choosing between sea and air freight, packing correctly, understanding customs requirements, and deciding whether to insure your items – all of these factors directly impact the success of your move.
At ShippingToGo, we offer the perfect combination of professionalism, competitive pricing, and personal service:
A dedicated representative to support you throughout the entire process Affordable rates from the leading shipping companies Tailored advice and assistance with choosing the best shipping option
Planning a relocation to London?
Talk to us – we’ll be happy to guide you every step of the way until your shipment arrives safely at your new address in the UK.