Denmark

*Updated August 2025

Planning a move to Denmark from the United States is a big decision. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, education, or lifestyle, transporting your household goods safely across the Atlantic requires expert planning and guidance. At SDC International Shipping, we make the process seamless by offering door-to-door solutions for shipping furniture, personal belongings, and even vehicles overseas. With decades of experience in international household moving and car shipping, we ensure your transition to Denmark is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Our comprehensive services include delivering a container to your home, professional packing, handling customs documentation, and arranging secure shipping by ocean freight or air freight. Every move is different, and our consultants will customize your relocation plan to fit your needs, budget, and timeline.

Shipping to Denmark: What You Need to Know

Ocean Freight vs. Air Freight

• Ocean Freight: Shipping a container to Copenhagen from an East Coast port like New York typically takes about 20 days. From a West Coast port such as Seattle, transit times extend to around 39 days. Ocean freight is the most common and cost-effective method for full households.
• Air Freight: Best for smaller shipments or urgent cargo, air freight offers delivery within days. It’s more expensive per pound than ocean freight but provides unmatched speed for essential goods.

Our team will recommend the right method based on your shipment size, timeline, and budget.

Request a Free Moving Quote to start planning.

Cost of Moving to Denmark from the USA

The cost of moving internationally varies widely depending on the volume of goods, type of shipping, and services required. As a general guide:

• FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for large households; provides exclusive use of a container and faster transit.
• LCL (Less Than Container Load): Suited for smaller shipments; more affordable, but requires consolidation.
• Air Freight: Higher cost but best for urgent shipments or smaller loads.

Other factors include the distance to/from ports, packing services, insurance, and seasonal demand. SDC’s consultants provide personalized quotes so you can plan confidently.

Preparing for Your Move to Denmark

Customs Clearance Assistance

Navigating customs regulations in both the U.S. and Denmark can be complex. Our team helps ensure your shipment complies with requirements to avoid delays. You’ll need documents such as passports, proof of residency, and an inventory of goods. We’ll guide you step-by-step and notify you if any additional forms are required.

Packing and Shipping Household Goods

Our professional movers are trained to handle everything from dining sets to outdoor furniture. We use durable, high-quality packing materials to safeguard your belongings during transit. Whether by sea or air, our packing services minimize the risk of damage.

• What We Ship: TVs, desks, chairs, sofas, beds, dining sets, patio furniture, and more.
• Packing Services: Secure wrapping and crating for fragile or valuable items, ensuring full protection during transit.

Learn More About Packing Services

Choosing the Right Freight Option

Your shipping method depends on your priorities:

• LCL (Less than Container Load): Best for smaller or partial shipments.
• FCL (Full Container Load): Exclusive use of a container, faster delivery, ideal for entire households.
• Air Freight: Fastest but most costly; good for urgent or high-value shipments.

For most families, FCL offers the best combination of speed, security, and value.

Car Shipping to Denmark

Bringing your car to Denmark is possible with the right preparation. You may qualify for duty and VAT exemption if:

• You have lived outside the EU for at least 12 months.
• The car has been registered in your name for at least six months.
• The vehicle is intended for personal use, not resale.

Vehicles are carefully secured in containers for safe transit. If you’re shipping a household and a car, both can often be loaded into one FCL container.

Learn More About Car Shipping Services

Moving to Denmark with Pets

Denmark follows EU pet import rules. Dogs and cats must have:

• Microchip identification
• Rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel)
• Animal Health Certificate (issued by USDA-accredited vet)

Additional rules may apply for certain breeds. Our specialists will guide you through the documentation needed to bring pets safely to Denmark.

Checklist for Moving to Denmark

Use this timeline to stay organized:

1. 3–6 Months Before: Apply for visas, gather personal documents, and start sorting belongings.
2. 2–3 Months Before: Book your shipment, schedule packing services, and finalize housing in Denmark.
3. 1 Month Before: Complete customs paperwork, arrange pet travel, and confirm insurance.
4. Arrival in Denmark: Provide ID, residency documents, and goods inventory to customs; register with local authorities.

Note: You have up to one year after arrival to import household goods duty-free.

Living in Denmark: What to Expect

Denmark consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world, known for excellent healthcare, education, and work-life balance. Before moving, keep in mind:

• Residency Permits: Depending on your situation, you may need a work, study, or family reunification visa.
• Cost of Living: Cities like Copenhagen are among Europe’s most expensive, particularly for housing.
• Healthcare: Residents with legal permits can access Denmark’s high-quality public healthcare system.
• Cultural Notes: Danes value punctuality, equality, and “hygge”—a lifestyle of comfort and togetherness.

FAQs About Moving to Denmark

How long does it take to ship household goods?
Ocean freight from the East Coast takes 3–4 weeks; from the West Coast, around 6–8 weeks. Air freight delivers within days.

Can I import alcohol or tobacco duty-free?
Strict limits apply; exceeding them may result in taxes and duties.

Can I bring electronics from the US?
Denmark uses 230V outlets; you may need adapters or converters for American devices.

Why Choose SDC International Shipping?

• Expertise: Decades of experience in international relocations.
• Customized Solutions: Services tailored to your shipment, budget, and timeline.
• Reliability: From packing to final delivery, we prioritize safety and transparency.

Start Your Move to Denmark Today

At SDC International Shipping, we provide the guidance and care needed for a successful relocation. Whether you’re shipping household goods, vehicles, or specialty items, our team ensures your move to Denmark is smooth from start to finish.

Get a Free Quote or call us today at (877) 339-0267 to begin planning your relocation.