Moving to and From the UK With Suddath
Moving to the UK
Suddath has helped families and businesses move to and from the United Kingdom for generations. Our team brings trusted expertise to international relocations between the U.S. and the UK.
Our international movers specialize in white-glove relocations to and from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham and communities throughout England, Scotland and Wales. From Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief applications to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) registration process, our teams provide comprehensive support that makes moving between the UK and the USA straightforward and stress-free.
100+ YEARS
international experience
16,000
international moves each year
FULLY VETTED
moving crew and drivers
4.7/5
international review rating
6X WINNER
international mover of the year
Our International Moving Services for the UK
When you choose our moving company for relocating from the U.S. to the UK, you receive end-to-end coordination for your international move:
- Dedicated move support: A single Suddath specialist manages your relocation timeline, maintains clear communication and answers questions at every step.
- Expert packing solutions: Suddath's packing teams employ industry-certified methods and premium materials to safeguard your possessions throughout the ocean crossing.
- Transfer of Residence relief guidance: We walk you through His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) requirements for the ToR1 application, help prepare detailed inventory documentation and ensure you meet the 12-month qualification criteria to avoid customs duties and Value Added Tax (VAT).
- Flexible freight choices: Match your moving approach to your timeline and budget — from container shipping to expedited air cargo — while maintaining shipment visibility.
- Vehicle shipping arrangements: We coordinate car transport and provide guidance on DVLA registration, Ministry of Transport (MOT) testing requirements and vehicle standards compliance.
- Arrival coordination: Through our British and American service networks, you gain access to warehousing options, delivery arrangements and in-home unpacking assistance, whether your destination is in the UK, USA or beyond.
Understanding UK Customs and Import Regulations
The United Kingdom's Transfer of Residence relief program allows qualifying individuals to import household goods and personal vehicles without paying customs duty or the standard 20% VAT. Suddath's customs specialists guide you through ToR1 preparation and ensure your documentation meets HMRC standards. To qualify, you must demonstrate 12 consecutive months of residence outside the UK before your move. You must also import items within 12 months of establishing UK residency. Your belongings must have been owned and used for at least six months prior to shipping, with limited exceptions for marriage or student moves. HMRC requires you to submit form ToR1 along with a detailed inventory before your shipment arrives at its port. Firearms, specific plant materials and certain other controlled goods need individual import permits from UK authorities.
Shipping Timelines for a Relocation Between the UK and the USA
Container shipping between eastern U.S. ports and UK destinations usually takes four to six weeks door-to-door, with western departures requiring six to eight weeks. Airborne transport shortens delivery time but increases shipping costs. After arrival, customs clearance generally takes three to five business days when Transfer of Residence documentation is properly prepared and submitted in advance. Suddath can work with you to find the best process for relocation to and from the UK.
Vehicle Importation for International Moves
Importing a U.S. vehicle to the UK requires DVLA registration, payment of applicable duties — ToR relief may apply for qualifying personal vehicles — and meeting specific construction standards. If you are moving to the UK from another country, your vehicle must pass an MOT test if it's over three years old and comply with emissions regulations. Right-hand drive vehicles are preferred but not mandatory. Our team can help you review these steps before shipping your vehicle.
Why Choose Suddath for Your Move to and From the UK?
As a six-time International Mover of the Year Award winner, Suddath brings proven capabilities to transatlantic relocations. Our company has operated continuously for more than 100 years, building relationships and systems that prioritize reliability at every stage. Advanced tracking technology gives you real-time visibility into your shipment location. Each relocation receives personalized planning based on your timeline, household size and destination requirements.
As a trusted moving company, we maintain partnerships with local delivery teams throughout England, Scotland and Wales to ensure efficient final-mile delivery and unpacking support at your specific address. Our expansive network across the United States also helps us coordinate delivery support in communities of all sizes, from small towns to major cities. Those partnerships help streamline coordination and communication throughout your move.
Our in-depth training helps our teams manage packing, delivery coordination and required documentation with care. We approach each challenge with the experience and attention to detail international relocations require.
Specialized Care for Your Most Valuable Pieces
Some of what you're bringing to the UK requires more than standard handling. As experienced international movers, Suddath coordinates specialized care for high-value items. Whether as part of your full household move or arranged as a stand-alone service, we are equipped to handle:
Fine Art and Antiques Moving
Our team provides custom crating, protective wrapping and meticulous handling for your irreplaceable and high-value items.
Piano Moving
Trained specialists manage every detail of piano transport, from protective preparation to safe placement at your destination.
Pet Relocation
Pet relocation: We coordinate with trusted specialists to ensure a safe, stress-free journey for your four-legged family members.
Custom Crating
Suddath offers purpose-built crates for fragile, oversized or high-value items that demand the highest level of protection in transit.
International Moving Resources
Contact Suddath for Your UK Relocation Today
As one of the most experienced moving companies providing services in the U.S. and the UK, Suddath delivers reliable service to multiple destinations. Connect with our international moving team for comprehensive information and precise cost projections.
Contact us today to learn how our proven expertise can simplify your transition.