Clearing customs can be a challenge with its unfamiliar processes and documentation. It has also become increasingly complicated due to the heightened security concerns. It’s important to know what these customs documents are in order to know how to fill them out properly. Even the smallest oversight could make the difference between a smooth international shipping experience and massive delays which can inflate your total international moving cost.
At NOR-CAL Moving Services/Allied International, we are here to guide you with the process of filling out and submitting certain documents needed to clear customs. Our goal is to help you prepare for what to expect when entering a new country. Each of our customers is assigned an International Relocation Coordinator who has the expertise and knowledge to guide you through clearing customs. The process will begin at your destination with the local Allied International office.
Your International Relocation Coordinator will assist you in completing the required documents and then forward them to our authorized destination agent. At your destination, the local Allied International office will receive the paperwork forwarded to them by your Coordinator. The destination agent, in turn, verifies that all of your information is correct and complete before passing the documents on to the customs broker. The destination agent will then contact you to arrange a mutually convenient time for delivery. Be sure to be available to arrange this delivery time.
Once you arrive in your destination country, remember to contact us immediately. Failure to make timely contact may result in delays in customs clearance and additional storage costs. ‘Demurrage’ or port rent is an additional expense incurred if we are unable to clear your shipment on time. Airports levy similar penalties for delayed airfreight shipments. To avoid delays and additional costs, it is essential to contact the local Allied International office as soon as you arrive.
Restricted items during an International Move
It’s tempting to want to bring absolutely everything you own with you on your international move. Unfortunately, that’s not going to be possible as each country has its own list of restricted items. To avoid any problems or delays in clearing your shipment through customs, customs documents are included in the information packets that we provide you at the start of your move. You’ll also find a list of items prohibited from entry into your destination country so there are no surprises later on. It is best to adhere to these restrictions and pack your household accordingly to avoid problems with clearing customs.
What you can send in an International Move
Personal belongings such as furniture, household goods, appliances, toys, clothes, cars, motorbikes, and other common items you have at home can generally always be shipped when you’re moving internationally, as long as they’re not flammable or pose any sort of danger. Cars and motorcycles are also allowed but note that certain countries have very strict rules regarding the entry of vehicles.
What you cannot send in an International Move
Hazardous Goods. These items are not allowed in any international shipment. To include these items will incur additional charges at the origin and destination.
- Aerosol spray cans of any kind
- Ammunition
- Acids or Solvents
- Bleaches
- Batteries
- Fire Extinguishers
- Fireworks
- Flares
- Gasoline
- Insecticides and Poisons
- Kerosene
- Lighter fluids
- Oil
- Paints and Paint thinners
- Perishable foods
- Propane tanks
Restricted Items. These items are not permitted, incur additional taxes or duties, or require licenses in the majority of international destinations:
- Automobiles
- Boats
- Building materials
- Carry-On luggage with
- Lithium batteries
- Consumable products (toiletries)
- Drugs and Medications
- Engines
- Firewood or Raw wood products
- Firearms and Guns
- Food items
- Hoverboards
- Ivory products
- Live plants
- Lawnmowers
- Military Uniforms and/or memorabilia
- Motorcycles
- Pornography
- Religious statues and
- Religious ornaments
- Trailers
- Weapons (knives, swords, etc.)
- Wine, Alcohol, Liquor
- All items on the endangered Species List
High Value Items. These items should be carried with you in personal luggage and not included in an international shipment:
- Coin and/or Stamp collectionsFurs
- Irreplaceable documentsJewelry
- Money, Stocks, Bonds
To be safe, you should also leave out fake plants, toy guns and any items that may be mistaken for a prohibited item.
Please note that anything and everything you ship as an international household goods move cannot be used for commercial purposes or with the intent to sell at your destination country. Such items would fall under the import/export category for which different legal and financial obligations apply.
Country Restrictions for an International Move
Some countries may apply restrictions on certain items. This means you’ll either need to obtain a special permit in order to be able to bring the item into the country or not be able to ship it at all.
One of the most common restrictions is the shipment of cars. Depending on the age, mileage, value of your car, and your destination country, complete or partial bans may apply. This information will be provided to you by your International Relocation Coordinator at the start of your move.
Rely on us for a stress-free international move including a smooth process of clearing customs. Contact us today.
About Us
One of the Top-Rated Moving Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area
Established in 1982, NOR-CAL Moving Services started as an office mover and has grown to become one of the largest full-service moving companies in the Western U.S. What started as a very simple business idea of providing San Francisco Bay Area businesses with superior moving and storage services has become the pillar to the company’s success and have earned NOR-CAL Moving Services multiple awards from Allied Van Lines.
Today, our team of expert movers continues to provide world-class moving services to every individual and organization based on their relocation or storage needs as seamlessly as possible. Moving quotes can be complicated, but not with the professional movers at NOR-CAL Moving Services.
Call us today!
(510) 780-2700
More than half a Million Moves in 40 years
around SF Bay Area and worldwide
2,500 Active Clients
trust NOR-CAL Moving Services
98% Client Retention
who value quality movers
300 Professionals
helping achieve a stress-free move
NOR-CAL Moving Services Reviews
Question & Answer
Do I need an estimate?
Yes. We offer free, no-obligation estimates. You can choose between in-person or virtual live video surveys. We try our very best to work and handle all kinds of moving scenarios.
Please note: We do NOT offer ball-park estimates over the phone.
Do you provide packing services?
Yes! We offer partial and full-service packing. We use high-quality materials to protect your items during transit.
Ask our Relocation Consultants in the Office, Industrial/Commercial, or Household Goods division.
Can you disassemble and reassemble furniture?
Absolutely. Our movers are trained to safely disassemble and reassemble beds, desks, tables, and more.
Please inquire in advance for pre-planning and logistics coordination.
Why should I hire professional movers?
Hiring professionals ensures efficiency, safety, and peace of mind. We bring the tools, labor, and experience to make your move stress-free.
Why should I choose NOR-CAL Moving Services?
Since 1982, we’ve been serving the Bay Area and are the go-to mover for top companies. Whether you’re moving a household or a global HQ, we tailor every move to your budget, timeline, and needs. We offer local, domestic, international, and office and industrial moving and storage/warehouse services. Call us for more information! We’ll develop a custom relocation plan to minimize business disruption and ensure a smooth transition. We provide clear, detailed estimates with no hidden fees, and our 5-star reviews and industry certifications back our reputation.
Customer satisfaction isn’t just a goal — it’s our standard.
Are you a moving broker or freight forwarder?
No, we are a licensed, professional moving company — not a broker or freight forwarder.
Here’s why that matters:
Brokers don’t own trucks or movers. They act as middlemen, often outsourcing your move to third parties with very little to no oversight.
Freight forwarders manage shipping logistics but don’t actually perform your move.
Choosing a direct mover like us means:
- Full accountability and service continuity
- No surprise carriers
- Personalized customer care
Tip: Ask for a mover’s USDOT number and verify it at: FMCSA’s website.
Do you guarantee delivery or pickup dates?
For long-distance moves, we offer delivery windows and do our best to meet specific target dates.
Can you handle specialty or sensitive equipment?
Yes. Our team is trained to move electronics, servers, lab/medical equipment, and confidential files safely and securely.
Call us today!
(510) 780-2700