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SHIPPING FROM SOUTH AFRICA TO AMERICA IS COSTLY
Use this service to capture your needs once and get multiple quotes from our trusted suppliers.
The box size and weight determine cost, so consider this when packing heavy items, no matter how small.
Shipping is costly so plan well and pack your goods carefully. Most goods can be replaced in America.
Did you Know
Moving goods and furniture to the U.S. is costly and will be at your own expense. Various factors, including the delivery address, influence costs. You can request a State in the U.S. to settle in during your interview. You will need to motivate this request. Do you have a State in mind? You will need to indicate this for an initial quote.
Get Estimates
Complete the Quote Request Form. You will receive an initial estimated quote by email from each of our vetted companies. These emails will include an introduction to the supplier with the supplier’s full contact details, who will assist you in finalising your order once you have a physical delivery address available.
U.S. Customs
Your international removals company will assist you in meeting all U.S. Customs Requirements, including completing the necessary forms, to ease the customs clearance process:
- Label all boxes clearly by writing on all sides using a permanent marker.
- Include your name, destination (USA), and a brief contents list (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots and Pans”) in English.
- Avoid vague terms like “miscellaneous” or “stuff”.
Boxing Advice & Sizes
Declutter Before Packing. Sell, donate, or discard items you don’t need to reduce shipping costs and provide accurate dimensions and weights to shipping companies for precise quotes.
Use High-Quality Materials, such as sturdy, double-walled cardboard boxes for heavy or fragile items, and strong packing tape (at least 5 cm wide) for securely sealing boxes.
Select the appropriate box sizes to help keep the weight manageable. The heavier the item, the smaller your box should be, for example:
Avoid Over-packing or Under-packing
Fill empty spaces with bubble wrap or crumpled paper to prevent items from shifting.
Ensure your boxes are full but not bulging, as overstuffed boxes may collapse or burst during transit.
Fragile Items
Consider Professional Packing for High-Value Items, and take photos for insurance purposes.
Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap, packing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top, with padding between layers.
Mark “Fragile” in bold red for delicate items and “This Side Up” to ensure proper handling.
Furniture
Disassemble large pieces to save space and prevent damage. Use plastic wrap or stretch film to bundle furniture or protect upholstery.
Use corner protectors for furniture edges to prevent dents or scratches.
Wrap wood or upholstered furniture in moving blankets or plastic wrap for protection.
Clothing and Textiles
Use wardrobe boxes to keep clothes on hangers and save time during packing.
Use vacuum-seal bags for bulky items like blankets or seasonal clothing to reduce volume.
Place mothballs or silica gel packets in boxes with textiles to prevent mould or mildew.
Books and Documents
Pack books flat in small boxes to distribute weight evenly and prevent spine damage.
Wrap valuable books in acid-free tissue paper and place them in plastic bins for protection.
Store important documents in a waterproof folder and keep them with you.
Restricted Items
Check U.S. Customs regulations for items such as alcohol, tobacco, or medications, which may require special permits or declarations.