Blog
Moving Appliances Overseas: What You Should Know
Appliances are major investments, so it’s understandable if you want your refrigerator, gourmet coffee maker or other appliances to follow you to your new home across international borders. But it’s only worth moving your appliances across the world with you if it makes sense. There are a few aspects you should take into account before packing up and shipping your appliances across the globe. Here’s what you need to know:
Consider customs regulations
Every country has its own rules and regulations regarding what items can be imported into the country. That’s why it’s key to verify customs regulations regarding moving your appliances to your new home overseas. Check the country’s customs or official governing body that regulates the importation of personal property, such as your appliances.
Some countries also charge a customs or duty fee to inspect, import, and export appliances and other goods out of the country based on their value. Moreover, some countries have special importation rules for your appliances. For example, Australia’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources requires that kitchenware appliances are clean and dry from soil, animals, plants and food before bringing them into the country. You can read more helpful information and tips on customs regulations here.
Appliance sizing may be an issue
If you’re bringing an old appliance to a new home across international borders, sizing may pose an issue. That’s because older appliances may be larger than newer appliances,or vice versa. Moreover, sizing may be an issue based on where the appliance was made or where you bought it. For instance, refrigerators from the United States and Canada are typically larger than European refrigerators and may not fit in a European kitchen. Also, if your appliance is a specialty item or custom-made, the size of the item may also be an issue and impact the cost of shipping, packing and moving the item. Always check the measurements of the room or space you plan to store your appliance within your new home.
Take wiring and electrical limitations into account
If the appliance you’re considering moving isn’t compatible with the outlets you’ll be using abroad, then it may not be worth boxing it up for your move. While you can use the converters or adapters you purchased before moving, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will automatically work in the new country, or that it will work long-term. Instead, consider buying these devices in your new country so that you can ensure they work. Moreover, your appliances should be dual voltage so that they can switch automatically to the voltage that is used in the country you’ll be moving to.
Leverage international movers
International moving companies have the knowledge and experience to handle issues that can arise with moving your appliances across international borders. Reputable international movers will provide you with an in-person survey so you can make sure your appliances fit correctly in your new home. They’ll also carry insurance and be licensed by a regulation body, such as the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission or FMC, so they can legally ship your appliances. You can also leverage a move coordinator who may have experience with coordinating the move of appliances with international shippers and freight forwarders.
Final thoughts
Moving your appliances to a new country requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and successful relocation. Whether you’re working with Jacksonville movers, movers in Dallas, or our other experienced teams across the nation, we can help you determine if moving your appliances is the right choice for you. With the right preparation, you can transport your appliances across international borders with ease, knowing that skilled professionals are guiding you through each step.
Suddath® is a moving company with almost 100 year’s of experience and can help you with any appliances you’re moving internationally. Visit our website for more information and to get a free quote on your international move.