Packing Tips for International Moves: Why Professional Packing Matters?

Moving overseas is very different from moving locally. Your belongings will be handled multiple times, travel long distances, and pass through ports, warehouses, customs inspections, and final delivery teams, often across several countries.

One of the most important decisions you’ll make during an international move is how your items are packed. The quality of packing directly affects not only the safety of your belongings, but also insurance cover, customs clearance, and overall risk.

Professional Packing vs Owner Packing

When goods are professionally packed, export-grade materials are used, packing methods are documented, and inventories are prepared to meet insurance and customs expectations. These shipments are generally less likely to be delayed or inspected and are eligible for full marine insurance cover (subject to policy terms).

You can learn more about our overseas services on our International Removals page.

Owner-packed shipments (often referred to as Packed by Owner or PBO) may appear cost-effective, but they introduce increased risk. Insurance cover is typically excluded or severely limited, and customs authorities may apply closer scrutiny due to unclear packing standards or inventories.

Further details on insurance limitations are explained on our Marine Insurance for International Removals page.

Customs Clearance: Why Packing Method Matters

Customs clearance is a critical stage of any international move. Professionally packed shipments include clear, accurate inventories, logical box groupings, and suitable materials, giving customs officers greater confidence in the contents.

Packed by Owner shipments are more likely to be flagged for inspection. If boxes are unpacked, items are rarely repacked to export standards, increasing the risk of damage. Any damage occurring during inspection is not usually covered by insurance for PBO items.

The Importance of Using the Correct Boxes

International moves require high-grade corrugated export cartons with a minimum 5-ply construction. Cheaper cartons used for local moves or storage may collapse, tear, or fail when exposed to humidity, stacking pressure, or customs handling.

Fragile and High-Value Items: When Crating Is Required

Fragile or high-value items such as artwork, antiques, marble, glass furniture, and large televisions may require custom wooden crating. Crates provide rigid protection and are often necessary to maintain insurance eligibility.

A surveyor can advise during a Pre-Move Survey whether crating is appropriate.

Packing Standards and Insurance Claims

Insurance assessors consider who packed the item, what materials were used, and whether export standards were followed. Professional packing reduces both the likelihood of customs inspection and the risk of uninsured loss.

You can read more on our Shipping Insurance Explained page.

Final Thoughts

Professional packing is not just about protection during transit—it plays a vital role in insurance validity and customs clearance. While owner packing may seem cheaper, it often introduces risk that becomes apparent only when something goes wrong.

Moving Overseas? Packing Decisions Matter More Than You Think

The way your belongings are packed affects insurance cover, customs clearance, and the condition of your goods on arrival. Our experienced team can advise on the right packing approach for your destination and shipment type.

Request a Packing & Moving Consultation