International Moving FAQ — Expert Answers for a Confident Overseas Relocation
Your Trusted Resource for Global Moving from Toronto & the GTA
Moving overseas involves more than packing a container — it requires preparation, documentation, compliance, and a trusted relocation partner. This FAQ covers the real questions families, expatriates, and corporate transferees ask when planning an international move from Canada.
PLANNING AN INTERNATIONAL MOVE -
FAQ Category: Planning & Timelines
Ideally 8–12 weeks before departure. During peak seasons (May–September & December–January), start 12–16 weeks ahead.
Why it matters: Early planning ensures space on vessels/flights, complete documents, accurate volume surveys, and time for visas or temporary housing.
Yes. A certified consultant assesses volume, access conditions, packing needs, special items, and transportation requirements — onsite or virtual.
Benefit: Avoid unexpected costs and ensure your quote is accurate and guaranteed.
PACKING, MATERIALS & HANDLING -
FAQ Category: Export Packing Standards
International shipments require:
ISPM-15 certified crating
Moisture-resistant wrapping
Export-grade cartons
Edge and shock protection
Custom crates for fragile/high-value items
Benefit: Protects against marine humidity, long transit times, forklift handling, and multiple loading points.
Our trained export teams — handle every item using certified materials.
Benefit: Consistency, accountability, and insurance compliance.
Yes — but not recommended for:
Fragile items
Artwork or electronics
Anything requiring insurance valuation
Self-packed boxes may be accepted for transit but are not always covered under full-value protection unless inspected by the packing team.
DOCUMENTATION & CUSTOMS -
FAQ Category: Paperwork & Compliance
Most destinations require:
Passport copy
Residency/visa documents
Detailed inventory
Valued inventory for insurance
Country-specific customs forms
Benefit: Our licensed destination partners guide you step-by-step, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
We do not clear customs directly, as customs must be completed by:
Moving to Canada You (the importer), or
Moving to countries Other than Canada – We work with locally licensed broker / partner at every destination
However, we coordinate the process by:
Preparing compliant inventories
Connecting you with authorized brokers
Ensuring paperwork is complete
Guiding you on prohibited and restricted items
Managing the logistics timeline so your shipment is not delayed
Depends on the destination, residency status, and declared goods. Your consultant provides country-specific guidance before shipping.
We’re delighted you’re here! If you need more info, to plan your International Move don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Call us
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SHIPPING OPTIONS & TRANSIT TIMES -
FAQ Category: Containers & Transport Methods
FCL (Full Container Load):
Best for full homes (20ft / 40ft / 40HC).
LCL (Less Than Container Load):
Ideal for small shipments; loaded into liftvans.
Groupage (Shared Container):
Cost-saving option for flexible timelines.
Airfreight:
For essentials needed immediately or time-sensitive moves.
Transit varies by destination:
USA / Caribbean: 1–4 weeks
Europe: 4–7 weeks
Middle East / Asia: 6–10 weeks
Australia / NZ: 8–12+ weeks
Benefit: We provide milestone tracking and ETA updates.
RESTRICTIONS, PROHIBITED ITEMS & SPECIAL -
FAQ Category: What You Can and Cannot Ship
Commonly restricted:
Aerosols & chemicals
Liquids, food, perishables
Plants, soil, seeds
Weapons, ammunition
Hazardous materials
Some batteries
Benefit: We provide a destination-specific prohibited list before packing.
Depends on country limits, duties, and licensing rules. Speak to your consultant.
We provide:
Custom wooden crating
Protective foam lining
Shock-resistant cushioning
Moisture barriers
Specialized cartons
High-value items should be declared for insurance at their proper replacement value.
COST, PAYMENT & INSURANCE -
FAQ Category: Pricing & Protection
Pricing is based on:
Volume (CBM)
Packing labour & materials
Mode of transport
Port charges
Access conditions
Storage (if required)
Insurance coverage
Benefit: We provide transparent, itemized, no-surprise quotes.
International shipments can be insured under:
Full-Value Protection
Total Loss Coverage
Itemized Coverage
Coverage is provided by specialized marine insurance underwriters, ensuring industry-standard protection.
DELIVERY & DESTINATION SUPPORT -
FAQ Category: Arrival & Final Delivery
The process typically includes:
Port arrival & offloading
Customs inspection (importer or broker must be involved)
Duty/tax assessment (if applicable)
Scheduling delivery
Unpacking & debris removal (if included in service level)
Door to Door premium international move packages include:
Delivery inside residence
Basic unpacking
Debris removal
Reassembly of standard furniture
Higher-end destinations may offer more extensive white-glove services.
More Frequently Asked Questions - International moving from Toronto
Yes. We provide real-time milestone tracking from departure to delivery, including:
Container number
Vessel/flight details
ETA updates
Transshipment updates
Yes — we provide:
Climate-controlled storage
24/7 monitored facilities
Short- or long-term options
Extended storage insurance coverage
Boutique-level attention
Skilled, certified export packers (not day labor)
Transparent communication
Zero shortcuts on materials
Strong relationships with international agent networks
Industry training and a high standard of care
This “boutique but global” model delivers superior service without the bureaucracy of large chains.
Why Choose Home To Home Relocations?
Global Expertise
Accurate Documentation
Transit Protection
Export-Grade Packing
Start Your International Move with Confidence
Ready to begin your move? Speak with our Toronto-based relocation team and get a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your needs. We’ll guide you every step of the way and ensure a smooth door-to-door experience.
📞 1-647-361-3100 | 📧 info@h-hrelo.com
Start your overseas relocation with a certified, experienced international moving team.
📞 Call: 1-647-361-3100
📧 Email: info@h-hrelo.com
📍 Toronto • GTA • Ontario
Your next chapter is waiting — and we would be honored to help you begin it – door-to-door Moving Service
Quick Links
7030 Woodbine Avenue Suite 500
Markham ON L3R 6G2
+ 1 647 361 3100
+ 1 647 361 3337 (After hrs)
+ 1 647 560 4405
info@h-hrelo.com
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