How to Compare International Moving Quotes
You’ve decided to move overseas—and now it’s time to find a moving company you can trust. So you start comparing quotes.
One company offers a surprisingly low price. Another gives you a detailed breakdown, but it’s hard to understand. A third seems professional, but you’re not sure what’s actually included.
And now, instead of feeling confident, you feel stuck.
Sound familiar?
Here’s the truth: not all international moving quotes are created equal. Some companies leave out essential services to appear cheaper. Others bury fees in fine print. And a few may not even be licensed to ship your belongings overseas—putting your household goods (and your peace of mind) at risk.
At SDC International Shipping, we believe transparency is everything. That’s why we’ve created this guide—to show you how to compare international moving quotes the right way. We’ll help you spot hidden fees, understand what should be included, and make sure you’re truly comparing apples to apples.
Whether you’re moving to Europe, Asia, South America, or anywhere else around the world, this article will help you save money, avoid surprises, and choose the right international mover for your journey.
What a Real International Moving Quote Should Actually Include
Before you can compare international moving quotes, you need to know what a real one looks like. At SDC, we provide comprehensive, transparent estimates—not vague numbers or hidden charges.
Here’s what every professional, legitimate international moving quote should include:
1. A Detailed Inventory or Volume Estimate
Your quote should reflect the actual volume or weight of your shipment. Whether based on a virtual survey or a detailed form you filled out, this number determines container size and pricing. If the company didn’t ask what you’re shipping, be cautious.
2. Freight Type & Container Size
A quote should clearly specify:
- Sea vs. air freight
- Full container load (FCL) or shared/groupage container
- Size of container (20 ft, 40 ft, etc.)
Learn more about your options: International Shipping Containers
3. Packing Services (If Included)
If packing is part of the quote, it should detail what’s included—boxes, labor, materials, crating, disassembly, etc. Some movers underquote by leaving packing costs out entirely.
At SDC, we offer full packing services and list them separately, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
4. Customs Clearance & Documentation
A legitimate quote should indicate whether:
- Customs paperwork prep is included
- Port handling fees are covered
- Local delivery after customs is part of the price
Without these services, your goods may arrive—but sit in port waiting for you to figure it out.
5. Insurance Options
Professional movers will offer optional international moving insurance, including all-risk or total-loss coverage. If your quote doesn’t mention insurance, ask why.
6. Door-to-Door vs. Port-to-Port
Don’t assume your shipment will be delivered to your new home. Some movers only offer port-to-port shipping, leaving you to arrange final delivery.
With SDC, we specialize in true door-to-door relocation, so nothing is left hanging.
What Lowball Quotes Leave Out (That Can Cost You Later)
Everyone loves a good deal—but when it comes to international moving quotes, cheap can quickly become expensive.
It’s common for less-reputable companies to offer shockingly low quotes in order to win your business, only to hit you with fees and upcharges after your shipment is already en route—or worse, held hostage at the port.
Here are the most common things missing from lowball quotes:
❌ Packing Materials & Labor
A quote might say “packing included,” but leave out materials, specialty crating, or fragile item handling. You won’t find out until you’re billed extra—often at inflated rates.
❌ Customs Clearance & Port Fees
These costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the destination. If your quote doesn’t clearly list them, assume they’re not included.
❌ Delivery to Your New Home
Many discount movers stop at the destination port. That means no unloading, no unpacking, no door-to-door service—just a notification that your container is waiting for you (and the clock is ticking on storage fees).
At SDC, we handle door-to-door delivery so you’re never left stranded.
❌ Insurance & Liability Protection
If a mover doesn’t even offer international moving insurance, or refuses to explain their coverage levels, that’s a red flag. Your shipment deserves protection.
❌ Transparent Terms
Beware of vague terms like “estimated port fees” or “to be determined at destination.” These are often placeholders for hidden charges you’ll only see on your final invoice.
If a quote looks too good to be true—it probably is.
A reliable international moving company doesn’t compete on price alone. We compete on clarity, service, and getting it right the first time.
Your International Moving Quote Comparison Checklist
Choosing an international moving company isn’t just about the lowest price—it’s about value, service, and peace of mind. That’s why we’ve created this simple checklist to help you evaluate every quote you receive.
Whether you’re looking at SDC or another provider, use this list to ask the right questions and avoid costly surprises:
✅ Quote Comparison Checklist:
- Is the quote based on a detailed inventory or shipping volume?
A reputable mover will ask what you’re moving and provide a clear volume estimate. - Does the quote specify freight type and container size?
Make sure it mentions whether it’s sea or air freight, and which shipping container size is included. - Are packing services and materials included—and itemized?
Don’t assume. Ask exactly what’s covered (boxes, labor, crating, fragile handling). - Are customs clearance and destination port fees included?
These are essential. Ask if local handling, duties, and documentation support are part of the quote. - Is door-to-door delivery included, or just port-to-port?
Clarify whether the company will deliver directly to your new home abroad—or if you’re on your own after the port. - Are insurance options clearly explained and available?
No insurance = major red flag. - Can you speak to a real relocation advisor—not just a chatbot?
You want a team that listens, explains, and customizes your move—not just sends you a number.
With the right information, comparing quotes becomes easy—and empowering.
At SDC International Shipping, we’re happy to walk you through any quote you’ve received—even from other movers. We’ll show you what’s included, what’s missing, and how we can build a plan that works for you.
Don’t Just Get a Quote—Get a Plan You Can Count On
At first glance, international moving quotes look like a numbers game.
But behind every quote is something much more important: a process, a team, and a promise.
At SDC International Shipping, we do more than provide prices—we deliver complete, customized relocation plans designed to make your overseas move smooth, affordable, and stress-free.
When you choose SDC, you get:
- A dedicated relocation specialist who listens and guides you
- A clear, itemized quote with no hidden fees
- Professional packing services and inventory prep
- Customs documentation and clearance support
- Door-to-door delivery to your new home abroad
- Insurance options for total peace of mind
✅ Success Looks Like:
- Knowing exactly what your move will cost
- Having expert support at every stage
- Feeling confident—not confused—as you head overseas
❌ Failure Looks Like:
- Surprise charges, miscommunication, and incomplete service
- Goods stuck in customs or damaged without coverage
- Starting your new life abroad stressed and over budget
Ready to see what a real quote looks like?
👉 Get your free international moving quote now
👉 Or call us at 877-339-0267 to speak with a relocation advisor today.
Let’s take the guesswork out of your global move—and make it the best decision you’ve ever made.
