The Ultimate Guide to Moving from France to the USA: Step by Step

Moving from France to the USA can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating for work, starting a new life, or joining family, an international move requires thorough planning and understanding of key logistical steps. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from preparation to arrival, ensuring a smooth transition.

Step 1: Preparation for Your Move

The first step in relocating to the USA is to gather all necessary documentation. A successful move requires having your visa paperwork in order, along with passports for every family member. It’s crucial to also organize your personal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and any educational or professional records that you may need in your new country.

Once your documents are ready, create a detailed inventory of your household items. This will serve multiple purposes, including facilitating customs clearance and providing an accurate estimate for your movers. Keep a copy of this inventory on hand throughout the process.

Pro Tip: Start the preparation phase at least six months in advance to ensure you have enough time to handle unexpected delays, especially with visa approvals and personal arrangements.

Step 2: Choosing the Right International Moving Company

Selecting the right international moving company is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. You want a mover with extensive experience in international shipping, handling customs, and offering comprehensive services.

SDC International Shipping is a leading international moving company with a wealth of experience in moving clients from Europe to the USA. Our International Household Movers service is designed for seamless relocations, including door-to-door delivery, packing, and shipping options that make your move easier and stress-free.

Step 3: Shipping Your Household Goods

When moving internationally, you have two primary shipping options: air freight and sea freight. Choosing the right one depends on your needs and budget.

Air Freight is the fastest option, ideal for smaller shipments or time-sensitive moves. However, it comes at a higher cost.
Sea Freight is more affordable and suitable for larger household moves. Full container load (FCL) or less-than-container load (LCL) options are available depending on the size of your shipment. Air Freight and Shipping Freight offers a detailed comparison of these options to help you choose the best one.

SDC provides both air and sea freight services, ensuring your belongings are handled with the utmost care. We use only approved materials for packing and crating, ensuring your goods arrive safely.

Step 4: Packing and Insurance Considerations

Packing for an international move can be complex. Your belongings will travel long distances, often through multiple ports of entry, making professional packing essential for avoiding damage.

SDC offers Packing Services that take the burden off your shoulders. We use high-quality materials and provide custom crating for fragile or valuable items. For more information on securing your goods, explore our International Moving Insurance options, which cover everything from basic coverage to all-risk cargo insurance.

Packing includes preparing an accurate inventory of all items being shipped, which is not only essential for the movers but also necessary for customs clearance.

Pro Tip: Label all boxes clearly and ensure your inventory is organized and itemized for easy reference at customs.

Step 5: Customs and Documentation

One of the most daunting aspects of an international move is clearing customs. Each country, including the USA, has specific regulations regarding what can and cannot be imported. You’ll need to submit a detailed list of your household goods, along with supporting documents like visas and shipping manifests.

SDC specializes in customs clearance, ensuring all forms are filled out correctly and on time. Refer to our guide on Customs Forms for detailed information on how to properly fill out customs documentation.

Among the most important documents you’ll need are:

• Passport copies
• Visa documents
• Inventory list of household items
• Shipping paperwork

We also recommend consulting our Customs Clearance guide for a smooth customs process.

Step 6: Insurance for Your Move

When your belongings are being shipped internationally, they are subject to potential risks, such as damage or loss during transit. Choosing the right insurance coverage gives you peace of mind that your items are protected.

SDC offers comprehensive insurance options, including Marine Insurance, which provides protection for your goods during sea freight. You can opt for total loss insurance, which covers the value of your shipment in case of a complete loss, or all-risk insurance, which covers partial losses or damages.

Pro Tip: Consider the total value of your goods and any particularly valuable items when choosing insurance coverage.

Step 7: Arriving in the USA and Receiving Your Shipment

Once you’ve settled in the USA, you’ll be eager to receive your belongings. Timing is essential, and SDC ensures your goods are delivered on schedule.

If there is any delay in securing your new residence, SDC offers Storage Services, giving you flexible options to store your belongings safely until you’re ready for them.

Upon arrival, our team will assist with unpacking and setting up your new home, making the transition as smooth as possible. From reassembling furniture to carefully unpacking fragile items, we handle every detail.

Conclusion

Relocating from France to the USA is a big step, but with proper planning, choosing the right moving company, and understanding the logistics of shipping and customs, it can be a smooth and exciting process. SDC International Shipping is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your move is hassle-free and successful.

For a personalized quote and more information on our services, contact SDC International Shipping today.