Business Details
29 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for International Removals Solutions
1st Move International stands as one of the UK's largest independent international removals specialists, with over 25 years of dedicated service. Established in 1997, our expertise lies in shipping household goods overseas with precision and care, leveraging a patented palletised system that ensures maximum protection for clients' belongings. As members of the British Association of Removers and the British International Freight Association, we adhere to rigorous industry standards, combining a modern fleet with fully trained professionals to deliver seamless global relocations.Our unique value proposition includes 24/7 container tracking, electronic customs clearance, and a personal move manager assigned to each client, reflecting our commitment to transparency and customer-centric service. With over 135,000 satisfied customers and 9.24 million cubic feet shipped, our reputation for reliability is built on consistent innovation and adherence to ethical practices, including financial stability verified through BAR membership audits.
Services
International Removals
Container Shipping
Car Transportation
Airfreight Services
Customs Clearance
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 25+ years' experience in international removals with patented packing technology
- BAR and BIFA accredited for industry-leading standards
- Modern fleet with fully trained packing and moving professionals
- Dedicated personal move managers for end-to-end coordination
- 24/7 container tracking and electronic customs clearance systems
Associations and certifications
- British Association of Removers
- British International Freight Association
What people say
Excellent service
Prompt delivery
Professional team
Well packed
Great communication
Services
International Removals
We specialise in comprehensive international removals across 45+ destinations. Our service includes door-to-door transportation, customs compliance, and destination delivery. Clients benefit from 25 years' expertise and patented packing systems that reduce transit risks. Every move receives a dedicated manager for seamless coordination.
Container Shipping
Offering shared and full container solutions, we accommodate moves from 1 to 40ft containers. Shared options suit smaller shipments, while full containers provide exclusive space for larger households. Both include weekly sailings and precise volume-based pricing with no hidden fees.
Customs Clearance
As registered customs brokers, we handle all UK export formalities and assist with overseas import requirements. Our electronic systems ensure fast CHIEF-compliant submissions, while our EORI number (GB720702181000) guarantees regulatory compliance throughout the shipping process.
Car Shipping
We transport private vehicles to most international destinations, ensuring compliance with import regulations. Our service includes secure loading, transit insurance options, and coordinated delivery. Vehicles over 12 months old typically qualify for duty-free importation in most countries.
Airfreight Services
For time-sensitive items, our airfreight service delivers essentials within days. Ideal for documents, medical equipment, or family heirlooms, this service includes door collection, airport handling, and destination delivery coordination.
Questions
What factors determine international moving costs?
Costs depend on shipment volume, container type (shared/full), destination, and additional services like car shipping or airfreight.
How can I track my international shipment?
We provide 24/7 container tracking with real-time updates from collection to delivery at your destination.
Do you handle customs documentation?
Yes, as registered customs brokers, we manage all UK export documentation and facilitate overseas customs clearance procedures.
What payment options are available?
We accept major credit/debit cards and bank transfers with flexible payment schedules aligned to service milestones.
Can I pack items myself?
Self-packing is allowed, though professionally packed items receive full damage protection under our MoveProtect cover.
Reviews (5)
Juliet Jarvis
Jun 11, 2022
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Excellent company - it was all very organised and seamless. Everything arrived in perfect condition and on time. Highly recommended.
Ikm Ikm
Jun 09, 2022
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Independently of the delay in receiving my cargo, which was only due to the vessel being delayed on the import leg. I have been very satisfied with their services. Everything was packed meticulously and with such good care. All the staff are very helpful and friendly. Thank you for making my move so easy!
Carrie Heiney
Feb 14, 2022
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1st Move International provided quality service for a move from the UK to the US. Communication from the company was prompt and helpful throughout the process. Belongings were wrapped carefully and arrived intact and in excellent condition, including delicate glassware. The quality work is competitively priced as well. In the midst of life's challenges, they made an international move an easy process.
Jaime Tanna
Feb 12, 2022
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My wife and I needed to ship some goods to Cape Town from London, and 1st Move came up trumps. They were extremely professional and courteous at all times, and made sure that everything was packed securely and safely, including some precious musical instruments! All the goods were delivered to our door without issue. The only small niggle was it took slightly longer than expected to get here even though we got everything packed on time.
Chris Urquieta
Jan 24, 2022
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Responded quickly to a short notice international move. Worked with us while we struggled with personal logistics. Packing crew showed up on time and was efficient and covid aware. Pricing was fair and company contacts were highly responsive. Company contacts were very responsive and knowledgable. Would use them again.
