Moving from United States to the UK — Smooth, Door-to-Door Relocation
Moving from United States to the UK, New York, California, Texas, Florida, or anywhere in the United States. London Moving manages your move end-to-end. Export packing in the US, sea or air freight, UK customs (ToR), and timed delivery to your new address.
- ✔ IAM, BIFA, FIATA member
- ✔ Groupage/LCL, FCL 20/40ft, air freight, box-only
- ✔ HMRC ToR duty relief guidance
- ✔ Dedicated move coordinator
- ✔ Secure UK storage and unpacking
Why choose London Moving for USA → UK
- Single accountable provider from US collection to UK delivery.
- Export-grade packing, ISPM-15 crating, barcoded inventory.
- Flexible modes: cost-saving groupage, faster FCL, express air.
- ToR application support to reduce duty and VAT.
- Transparent quotes, clear inclusions, no hidden fees.
Service options from the United States to the UK
Shared container groupage (LCL)
Pay only for the space you use. Regular consolidations from East and West Coasts. Full tracking, export packing, UK clearance, and delivery included.
Full container load (FCL)
Dedicated 20ft or 40ft container for complete households. Fewer touchpoints, predictable schedules, faster availability in the UK.
Air freight
For essentials and time-critical items. Typical door-to-door 3–7 days. Airline-compliant packing and full documentation.
Door-to-door boxes
Ship a few cartons by air or sea. Labels, pickup, customs and UK delivery handled. See box shipping.
US origins and routes
- East Coast New York/New Jersey, Baltimore, Norfolk, Charleston, Savannah.
- Gulf Houston, New Orleans.
- West Coast Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle/Tacoma.
- Air hubs JFK, EWR, BOS, MIA, ATL, ORD, DFW, LAX, SFO, SEA.
Pricing guide and transit times
Use these ranges for planning. Quotes vary by volume, packing level, season, US access, UK delivery, and insurance.
| Mode | Typical Volume | Transit Time | Guide Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groupage (LCL) | 3–12 m³ | 6–9 weeks (East) / 8–11 weeks (West) | £1,200–£2,600 |
| FCL 20ft | 28–32 m³ | 5–7 weeks (East) / 6–8 weeks (West) | £3,900–£6,200 |
| FCL 40ft | 55–65 m³ | 5–7 weeks (East) / 6–8 weeks (West) | £6,500–£9,800 |
| Air freight | 0.5–2.0 m³ | 3–7 days door-to-door | £8–£14 per kg |
| Door-to-door boxes | 1–10 cartons | 7–14 days (air) / 6–9 weeks (sea) | From £60–£85 per box |
Tip for apartments use elevator reservations and COI requirements; we provide building COI for US pickup on request.
Customs and ToR (Transfer of Residence) for the UK
Most returning residents can import used household goods duty and VAT-free under ToR if they meet HMRC rules. Apply before shipment where possible.
- Lived outside the UK for 12+ consecutive months.
- Items used for 6+ months before import.
- Import within 12 months of arriving to live in the UK.
Official guidance gov.uk/transfer-of-residence
Your documents
- Passport, BRP/visa, UK address details.
- ToR approval reference.
- Proof of living in the US 12+ months.
- Detailed packing list/inventory.
We prepare
- Export packing inventory and photos.
- Bill of Lading/Air Waybill.
- Insurance certificate if taken.
- UK delivery booking and access checks.
US export notes
- We file EEI/AES for ocean shipments when required.
- We provide Certificates of Insurance and building COI for US pickup where needed.
- We use ISPM-15 pallets and compliant wood for crating.
Prohibited and restricted items
- Firearms and ammunition require specific licensing.
- Food, plants, and animal products are restricted.
- Hazardous materials and pressurised cylinders are not accepted.
See UK rules on restricted goods and personal imports at gov.uk personal imports.
Moving tips for USA → UK
- Book elevator and loading dock time with your building in advance.
- Prioritise an essentials box for the first week in the UK.
- Crate TVs, glass, marble and artwork for sea transit.
- Label by room; keep a digital inventory copy.
- Measure UK doorways and stairwells to plan handling.
- Consider groupage for 3–12 m³ to reduce costs.
“Packed in Chicago on Monday, air shipment delivered in Surrey the following week. Clear ToR guidance and careful handling.” — R. Bennett, moved 2025
Frequently asked questions
How long does USA → UK take
Groupage 6–9 weeks from East Coast, 8–11 weeks from West Coast. FCL 5–7 weeks East, 6–8 weeks West. Air 3–7 days door-to-door.
Can I import duty-free under ToR
Yes if you meet HMRC ToR rules. Apply and obtain your reference before arrival. We guide the process.
Is groupage safe for fragile goods
Yes. Export packing, crating and palletisation reduce handling risk in consolidation.
Do you offer UK storage
Yes short- and long-term storage. See storage services.
Can I ship only a few boxes
Yes. Door-to-door box service by air or sea. Box shipping.
Other popular origins → UK
Ready to plan your USA → UK move
Send dates and an inventory. We’ll build a plan covering packing, shipping mode, ToR, and UK delivery.
Chat with us!