Moving to Chile from the USA

Chile is rapidly becoming a top destination for international students and entrepreneurs. With increasing foreign investments in startups, many Americans are choosing to relocate to Chile. If you’re planning a move, there are several key factors to consider, such as the volume of your household goods and import costs.

At SDC International Shipping, our mission is to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation process. While you prepare for your new life in Chile, we handle everything from packing your home in the USA to shipping your belongings to your final destination.

Why Choose SDC International Shipping for Your Move to Chile

With over ten years of experience in international moving, SDC International Shipping guarantees the safe and timely delivery of your personal belongings. We offer various shipping options tailored to your budget and needs.

Comprehensive Moving Services

We specialize in shipping a wide range of personal items, including:

Furniture
Books
Clothing
Homeware
Electronics
Appliances and more

Advantages of Choosing SDC International Shipping

To make your move to Chile as seamless as possible, we provide a variety of additional services:

Professional packing services
Convenient door-to-door delivery
Pick-up from your current location to the port terminal
Secure storage solutions
Assistance with customs clearance and documentation
Comprehensive marine insurance

Considering the Moving Quote from the US to Chile

Sending household items overseas can be pricey. Fortunately, our international shipping services to Chile can be tailored for any shipment size. Whether you are moving a studio apartment or a large house, pick the service that works the best for your budget:

Consolidated container service where you are charged only for the volume of your goods
The solo container where you pay for a 20ft or a 40ft container
Car shipping services, including your personal belongings

Importing Household Goods

If you’re moving to Chile under a work visa or temporary residence permit valid for at least 12 months, you can bring household goods up to $5,000 FOB (Free on Board) value duty-free. For shipments exceeding this amount, a duty of 6% over the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value will apply, plus a 50% surcharge on used goods and 19% VAT.The duty exemption of up to $5,000 FOB value is valid for items arriving in Chile within 120 days of your arrival in the country.To summarize the key points:

Up to $5,000 FOB value of used household goods and personal effects can be imported duty-free with a qualifying visa.
For values over $5,000 FOB, duties of 6% of CIF value apply, plus 50% surcharge on used goods and 19% VAT.
Goods must arrive within 120 days of the owner’s arrival to qualify for duty exemption.
A nominal 1% tax over the CIF value is charged even on duty-free shipments.

Required Documents for Shipping to Chile

When shipping personal belongings to Chile, customs require the following documents:

Detailed inventory
Bill of Lading
Invoice
Import permit

Importing Vehicles

You can import only a new vehicle to Chile without exemption from duty. We couldn’t find information about the duty fee. So please get in touch with customs to inquire about duties and taxes.

Paperwork required for your vehicle:

Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Title and registration
Vehicle Identification
Purchase invoice
Cost certificate
Tax receipt

Additional Resources for Moving to Chile

Comparing International Moving Quotes: Understand what is included in the shipping cost.
International Moving Tips: Prepare your household goods effectively for the move.
Top Moving Mistakes to Avoid: Read our article to ensure a smooth relocation.
Container Dimensions Guide: Learn about different container sizes to determine the best option for your shipment.

More About How to Move to Chile

Obtaining Residency

For US citizens, a tourist visa allows you to stay in Chile for up to 90 days. During this time, you can apply for other types of visas to extend your stay legally. Various visa options include:

Work Visa
Temporary Residence Visa
Temporary Visas for Retirees
Investor Visa
Student Visa
Dependent Visa

Pet Relocation

To bring a pet to Chile, you must meet the following requirements:

Rabies vaccination and certificate
Vet health certificate

SDC International Shipping offers pet transport services to Chile. This service is available to clients moving abroad with us. Contact our pet travel expert for professional assistance.

Major Cities and Destinations in Chile

Santiago
Valparaiso
Vina del Mar
Antofagasta
Arica
Concepcion
Temuco
And more

Facts About Chile

One-third of Chile’s population lives in Santiago.
The Atacama Desert in Chile is the driest place on the planet.
Chile’s coastline is over 200 km long.
The oldest mummy in the world is in Chile, not Egypt.
Chile has a penguin population.
Visit Chile to take an Instagram photo while swimming in the world’s largest pool.
Chile produces world-class wine.
Valparaiso is the most exciting city in Chile.
Chile is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The country has over 2,000 volcanoes, of which 90 are active.

How Long Does It Take to Move ?

The transit time for moving household goods to Chile varies based on the shipping method:

Ocean Freight: Typically takes 4-8 weeks. This duration applies to shipments from major US cities like San Diego, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, and Las Vegas to primary destinations in Chile.
Air Freight: Significantly faster, taking only 5-7 business days (excluding customs clearance). However, this is the most expensive option for shipments over 100 kg.

Start Your Relocation Today

Complete our online quote form to begin your move to Chile today!

For additional information about moving to Chile, contact our logistics specialist at (877) 339-0267 to discuss your moving options.