Removals UK to USA

Starting Your American Chapter

Whether you’re heading to the iconic skyline of New York, the tech hubs of California, or the sun-drenched suburbs of Florida, moving across the Atlantic is a massive undertaking. In 2026, international removals from the UK to the USA require more than just shipping boxes; they require a deep understanding of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) rules and a logistical plan that covers thousands of miles.

At Pask’s Removals, we take the mystery out of the “Big Move.” We combine our London-based precision with a global network to ensure your transition to the States is as smooth as a flight over the pond.

Why Choose Pask’s Removals?

About Pasks Removals South London

Shipping Methods for Your US Move

Depending on the size of your home and your budget, we offer three main ways to transport your belongings in 2026:

Shared Container (Groupage)

Perfect for students, individuals, or small apartments. Your goods share a container with other shipments, and you only pay for the cubic footage you use.

  • Best for: 1-bedroom flats or partial house moves.

  • Lead time: 7–12 weeks door-to-door.

Full Container Load (FCL)

For larger family homes, you get exclusive use of a 20ft or 40ft container. This is faster and more secure as the container is loaded and sealed at your UK residence.

  • Best for: 3+ bedroom homes or those shipping a vehicle.

  • Lead time: 4–8 weeks depending on the coast.

Air Freight

When time is the priority. We can fly your essential “Day 1” items (work equipment, baby gear, basic clothing) to any major US airport.

  • Best for: Urgent items needed before your sea freight arrives.

  • Lead time: 5–10 days.

2026 Cost Estimates: UK to USA

Shipping rates are influenced by volume and your final destination (East Coast vs. West Coast). While we always provide a fixed quote after a video survey, these are the 2026 benchmarks:

  • Small Shipment (Groupage): From £750

  • 1-Bedroom Flat: £1,600 – £2,200

  • 3-Bedroom Family Home (20ft FCL): £6,000 – £8,500

  • 4+ Bedroom Residence (40ft FCL): £9,500+

Note: These estimates include professional export packing and sea freight but exclude US port duties or specific X-ray exam fees if ordered by US Customs.

Pask's Removals & Storage, The Fastest Growing Moving Company In London

U.S. Customs: What You Need to Know

The USA allows you to import your used household goods duty-free, provided you have owned and used them for at least one year and they are for your personal use (not for resale).

Essential Paperwork

  • Customs Form 3299: The “Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles.” We help you complete this to ensure you don’t pay unnecessary taxes.

  • Supplemental Declaration: Extra info for personal and household goods.

  • ISF (Importer Security Filing): In 2026, this must be filed before your goods leave the UK. We handle this filing for you to avoid the hefty $5,000 “late filing” fines.

  • Visa/Passport Copy: A copy of your photo page and your valid US work or residency visa.

The “No-Go” List

US Customs are particularly strict about:

  • Food & Perishables: Don’t pack the pantry. Most food items are prohibited.

  • Plants & Seeds: Strictly regulated to prevent invasive species.

  • Flammables: No aerosols, paints, or cleaning chemicals.

  • Alcohol: Highly regulated and often subject to high state taxes; we generally advise against shipping large wine collections unless discussed in advance.

Voltage and Electronics

A quick 2026 tip: The UK uses 230V, while the USA uses 120V. Most modern laptops and phone chargers are “dual voltage,” but your UK kettle, toaster, or hair dryer likely won’t work properly—even with a plug adapter. We recommend donating these in the UK and buying new ones when you land.

About Pask's Removals, London
Pasks removals south london - faqs

The Pask’s Promise

1. Fixed-Price Quotes We use WhatsApp video surveys to give you an exact price. No “hidden fees” for the Atlantic crossing.

2. Export-Grade Packing Your furniture will be crossing the ocean. We use “Export Wrap”—heavy-duty, moisture-resistant padding—to protect your items from the humid sea air and the movement of the ship.

3. Door-to-Door Tracking From the moment the van leaves your London street to the moment it pulls up at your new driveway in Austin or Chicago, you’ll know exactly where your shipment is.

FAQs: Moving from the UK to the USA

Do I need to be in the USA when my shipment arrives?

Yes. To clear U.S. Customs duty-free, you must have physically entered the USA before your goods arrive. Your Customs Form 3299 isn’t technically valid until you have been cleared by an immigration officer at your port of entry. We recommend flying out at least a few days before your container is due to dock.

How long does the whole process take?

In 2026, the timeline usually looks like this:

  • East Coast (NYC, Miami, Boston): 4–6 weeks for a full container; 7–10 weeks for shared loads.

  • West Coast (LA, SF, Seattle): 7–9 weeks for a full container; 10–14 weeks for shared loads.

  • Customs Clearance: Always allow an additional 7–10 working days for the paperwork to clear once the ship has docked.

What is Form 3299 and is it hard to fill out?

It’s the “Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles.” It looks intimidating, but it’s mostly just confirming that your items are used personal effects and not for resale. We provide a step-by-step guide and our Move Managers will review your draft to ensure you haven’t missed any boxes that could cause a delay.

Can I ship my UK car to the States?

It is possible, but difficult. The USA has very specific safety and emission standards (DOT and EPA). Unless your car is a classic (over 25 years old) or originally manufactured to US specs, the modification costs often outweigh the car’s value. If you do decide to ship it, it must be completely steam-cleaned to pass soil inspections.

What are these “Customs Exam” fees I’ve heard about?

Since 2024/25, U.S. Customs has increased the frequency of random X-ray or physical examinations for security. If your container is flagged for an exam, the port will charge a fee for the inspection. While we handle all the logistics, these specific government-mandated fees are outside of our control and are billed at cost.

Should I bring my TV and kitchen appliances?

Generally, no. The UK uses 230V, while the USA uses 120V. While small electronics like laptops and phone chargers are usually “dual voltage,” your kettle, toaster, or TV will need a bulky, expensive transformer to work. It is almost always cheaper and safer to buy new appliances when you arrive.

Get in Touch with Us

Embark on your new life confidently. Talk to us today for reliable international removals from London and an experience where your peace of mind comes first. Call us today at 07946 723444 and start your overseas relocation stress-free.

Areas We Cover

  • Austria
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland

Areas We Cover

  • Austria
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland