International Movers in Olympia and the Greater Puget Sound

An international move typically includes a combination of:

• Packing
• Transportation
• Shipping options
• Customs assistance
• Delivery services

Depending on the provider, this may also involve temporary storage, insurance options, and help with documentation. Most international movers offer door-to-door or port-to-port options, enabling customers to select a service level that suits their needs and budget. “The services typically provided by international movers include packing household goods, moving your items to the departure port, shipping by sea or transport by air freight, and customs clearance and paperwork,” states Wise.com. Full-service moves may also include unpacking and debris removal upon arrival.

At A&E Relocation Services, we provide a wide array of international moving services designed to minimize stress and maximize efficiency. Our team handles everything from professional packing and freight logistics to helping with customs documentation and destination delivery. “Most people don’t move internationally more than once or twice in their lives,” says Kira McIntyre, Office Manager of A&E Relocations. “We’re here to walk them through what to expect and help them make informed decisions at each step.”

The cost of an international move varies widely based on several factors, including:

• The volume of items being shipped
• The destination country
• The method of transportation (land vs. air vs. sea)
• Any additional services

Additional fees may arise from customs duties, access issues, or storage requirements. “In general, you’ll see pricing for international van lines to be anywhere from $1,500 to well over $12K,” Move.org suggests. Always get at least three estimates from reliable international movers in Olympia to get accurate pricing for your move abroad.

At A&E Relocation Services, we provide upfront, transparent pricing with detailed breakdowns so you know exactly what to expect. We work closely with customers to find the most cost-effective route and service combination for their move. “Costs can add up quickly if you’re not aware of all the variables,” explains Office Manager Kira McIntyre. “We give our customers a realistic estimate based on their timeline and actual needs, not just a base price.”

Call us at (800) 496-8276 or fill out our online form to request your personalized international moving quote.

To protect your belongings during an international move, reputable companies use high-quality packing materials, specialized containers, and trained crews to ensure items are safely wrapped and secured. For fragile or high-value items, custom crating or special handling procedures may be used. Insurance coverage is also typically offered to provide you with financial protection in the event of damage or loss.

As an agent of Mayflower Transit Van Lines (USDOT #125563), our team at A&E Relocation Services uses industry-standard packing techniques. It offers custom crating when needed to protect delicate or valuable items. We also offer various insurance options, which are further detailed in the section titled ‘What Happens If My Items Are Delayed, Damaged, or Lost in Transit?’ “Long-distance shipping comes with more risk than a local move,” says Kira McIntyre, A&E’s Office Manager. “Using the right materials and packing techniques can make a big difference in how well your items arrive.”

International moves require a range of documents, such as: 

• A passport
• Visa
• Inventory list
• Proof of residency at the destination. 

Some countries also require import permits, notarized forms, or consular invoices. “Gather copies of your medical history, immunization records, insurance cards for your medical, dental, eye, and/or disability insurance. Also, make sure you have copies of your medical prescriptions and any disability records,” recommends CIBT Visas. Customs regulations vary significantly by country. Your move can be delayed, or you may incur fines if you fail to comply with the customs documentation requirements of your new country.

A&E Relocation Services offers dedicated assistance with all necessary customs paperwork, including document review, inventory guidance, and coordination with destination agents. “Customs forms can be different for every country,” says Kira McIntyre, Office Manager of A&E. “We help clients gather what they need and avoid common mistakes that could delay clearance.”

The timeline for an international move depends on various factors, including: 

• Shipping method
• Destination
• Customs clearance
• Local delivery logistics

Air freight is typically faster, taking about 1 to 2 weeks, while ocean freight may take anywhere between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the route and port congestion. Additional time may be needed for customs inspection and scheduling delivery. The sooner you book your moving company, the sooner you can begin planning all the logistics. Moving.com recommends that “you start looking for an international moving company as far ahead as three months and book at least two months in advance.” 

At A&E Relocation Services, we help customers choose the right international shipping method based on their timeline and budget. We provide realistic delivery windows and communicate proactively throughout the process. “We always try to give people a clear idea of timing upfront,” notes Office Manager Kira McIntyre. “That way, they can plan for things like temporary housing or delayed shipments if needed.”

Delays, damage, or loss can occur during international transit due to weather, customs holds, port congestion, or mishandling. Reputable moving companies offer valuation coverage, often referred to as “moving valuation” in the industry, to help customers recover any losses incurred during the move. Most companies offer multiple options:

• • Limited Liability Coverage (Released Value Protection) is included at no additional charge, providing coverage of $0.72 per pound for each item lost or damaged during the move, regardless of its actual value.
  • Full Value Protection requires an additional fee and covers the repair, replacement, or reimbursement of each item at fair market value.
  • All-Risk Insurance offers broader protection with a deductible and covers full replacement cost for individually listed, professionally packed items.

• Total Loss Only (TLO) Coverage applies only if the entire shipment is lost. According to Expat Frontier, “This can occur in instances like ship sinking, aircraft crashes, or catastrophic fires. TLO Insurance does not cover individual items that might be damaged or lost during transit.”

At A&E Relocation Services, we’re committed to addressing any issues with speed and transparency. We assist with claims processing and advocate on behalf of our customers to reach a resolution. “Issues don’t happen often, but when they do, we respond quickly and keep the customer informed,” says Kira McIntyre, A&E Office Manager. “Clear documentation and communication make the process much smoother.”