Embarking on an international relocation is thrilling but often comes with its fair share of complexities and hurdles.The complexity of customs regulations, logistics, and safe transportation requires the expertise of professional movers.
For Londoners planning to move abroad, choosing a reliable international moving company can make all the difference. This guide highlights the top 10 international moving companies in London that offer exceptional services tailored to meet diverse relocation needs.
Why Is Choosing the Right Overseas Moving Company in London Important?
Experience and Accreditation Matter
When evaluating international movers, experience speaks volumes. Companies with decades of operations tend to have refined their services to anticipate and manage common challenges. Additionally, industry accreditations such as FIDI, IAM, and BAR are strong indicators of compliance with international quality standards. These certifications ensure that movers adhere to best practices in handling, shipping, and customer service.
Range of Services Offered
A reputable moving company offers far more than simple transportation; they deliver comprehensive support throughout the entire relocation journey. Look for comprehensive service packages that include professional packing, secure storage options, insurance, and customs clearance support. Some companies also offer destination services like home and school searches, easing your transition into a new environment.
Transparent Pricing and Customised Quotes
Transparency in pricing is a critical factor. Reputable movers provide detailed, itemised quotes based on a pre-move survey rather than vague estimates. Customised quotes ensure that you only pay for the services you need, avoiding hidden charges and unexpected costs at the last minute.
How to Choose the Best International Moving Company in London?
Prioritise Accreditation and Insurance
Start by ensuring the company holds the necessary industry certifications like BAR, FIDI, or IAM. Check if they offer comprehensive insurance policies that cover loss or damage during transit.
Request Detailed Consultations and Surveys
Professional companies will conduct a pre-move survey, either virtually or in person, to understand your requirements and provide a tailored quote. This process highlights their attention to detail and willingness to customise their service.
Verify Their Global Reach
Ensure the company has a reliable global network. Movers with well-established partners abroad can better handle customs procedures, local deliveries, and unexpected delays.
Which Are the Top 10 International Moving Companies in London?
1. Pickfords – “Moving You Forward, Worldwide”
With centuries of experience, Pickfords delivers seamless international relocations backed by a global network. Known for reliability and meticulous handling, they ensure personal and corporate moves are stress-free and tailored to client needs.
Speciality
Pickfords offers comprehensive door-to-door logistics solutions, handling every detail from initial packing to final delivery, including customs management and insurance coverage.
Best For
Families relocating abroad and large corporate clients looking for full-service international move management.
Pricing: Tailored quotes based on destination and volume.
- Website: pickfords.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 019 8556
- Address: Pickfords Park, Laxcon Close, Wembley, London NW10 0TG, United Kingdom
- Email: enquiries@pickfords.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Professional and efficient — they made our move to Australia much less stressful.”
2. Bournes International Moves – “Your Journey Starts Here”
Bournes is known for their client-focused, customised moving services, providing peace of mind for those relocating abroad. With over 150 years in the industry, they combine modern technology with traditional customer care.
Speciality
Bournes specialises in bespoke relocation planning, offering flexible services including storage and destination support.
Best For
Couples and small families seeking tailored moving solutions with a personal touch.
Pricing: Custom estimates based on specific needs and locations.
- Website: bournesmoves.com
- Phone: +44(0)1797 228000.
- Address: Harbour Road, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7TE, United Kingdom
- Email: info@bournesmoves.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Smooth process and exceptional communication throughout the move to Canada.”
3. Abels Moving Services — “The Royal Standard of Moving”
Holding the prestigious Royal Warrant, Abels is celebrated for orchestrating luxury relocations with extraordinary attention to detail and precision. Their bespoke services ensure a seamless move whether across Europe or overseas.
Speciality
Specialists in high-value goods and luxury relocation, with an emphasis on delicate and valuable items.
Best For
High-net-worth individuals needing discreet, white-glove moving services.
Pricing: Premium service pricing; consultations provided for quotes.
- Website: abels.co.uk
- Phone: +44 208 0164 100
- Address: 29 Commercial Way, London NW10 7XF, UK
- Email: enquiries@abels.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“Our fine art and antique pieces were managed with incredible care — an outstanding service we would wholeheartedly endorse.”
4. Anglo Pacific – “Worldwide Moving Made Simple”
Anglo Pacific boasts over four decades of experience in overseas shipping and removals. Their network reaches over 200 countries, providing customers with affordable and reliable moving solutions.
Speciality
Expert in shipping personal effects and international container relocations.
Best For
Students, expats, and budget-conscious movers seeking reliable international shipping.
Pricing: Competitive; varies depending on volume and destination.
- Website: anglopacific.co.uk
- Phone: 020 8965 1234
- Address: Anglo House, 67 Heather Park Drive, Wembley HA0 1SU, United Kingdom
- Email: removals@anglopacific.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Affordable rates and no surprises — great for shipping my belongings to New Zealand.”
5. Bishop’s Move – “The Art of Moving”
With a history dating back to 1854, Bishop’s Move offers bespoke international moving services, with additional expertise in eco-friendly moving solutions.
Speciality
Customised international moving strategies designed with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Best For
Environmentally-conscious movers and families needing comprehensive support.
Pricing: Tailored to the services and shipment size.
- Website: bishopsmove.com
- Phone: 0800 107 8422
- Address: 25 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4LF, United Kingdom
- Email:enquiries@bishopsmove.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their green initiatives were a big plus — the move to Spain was flawless.”
6. Cadogan Tate – “Excellence in Motion”
Cadogan Tate specialises in high-end, white-glove relocation services, offering expertise in handling fine art, antiques, and corporate relocations on a global scale.
Speciality
High-value logistics management with fine art and luxury item expertise.
Best For
Art collectors, museums, and executives with complex relocation needs.
Pricing: Premium; consultation required for a tailored quote.
- Website: cadogantate.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 208 963 4000
- Address: Cadogan House, 239 Acton Lane, London NW10 7NP, United Kingdom
- Email: info@cadogantate.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Exceptional handling of our art and antiques during the move to the US — worth every penny.”
7. John Mason International – “Moving Your World”
John Mason International has over a century of expertise in global relocation services, offering end-to-end support from pre-move planning to post-arrival settling-in services.
Speciality
Comprehensive global moving services crafted with an emphasis on individualised client care.
Best For
Individuals and families moving to Australia, New Zealand, or the US.
Pricing: Variable; based on distance and shipment size.
- Website: johnmason.com
- Phone: 0800 093 2623
- Address: International House, Huyton Business Park, 35 Wilson Rd, Liverpool L36 6AE, United Kingdom
- Email: sales@johnmason.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Reliable and helpful from start to finish during our relocation to Sydney.”
8. Gerson Relocation – “Managing Moves, Easing Lives”
Gerson Relocation focuses on comprehensive move management, assisting with everything from logistics to immigration paperwork for international relocations.
Speciality
End-to-end relocation management including immigration and visa assistance.
Best For
Professionals and corporate transferees relocating globally.
Pricing: Bespoke based on relocation needs.
- Website: gersonrelocation.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 3837 5999
- Address: Building 1, Falcon Gate, Shire Park, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1TW
- Email: contact@gersonrelocation.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“My work visa and international move to Canada were seamlessly managed — truly a hassle-free experience.”
9. Santa Fe Relocation – “We Make Moving Easy”
Santa Fe Relocation offers not just moving services but also orientation, home search, and school search to ensure a complete relocation package.
Speciality
Integrated relocation solutions covering every aspect of moving life abroad.
Best For
Expats and executives seeking a full relocation package beyond just moving.
Pricing: Bespoke pricing depending on service package.
- Website: santaferelo.com
- Phone: +44 800 808 5677
- Address: 1 Lyric Square, London W6 0NB, UK
- Email: uk@santaferelo.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“More than just movers — they helped settle our family quickly in Singapore.”
10. White & Company – “Experience You Can Trust”
White & Company brings over 150 years of experience, offering domestic and international removals with excellent customer service and BAR accreditation.
Speciality
Expert international removals with full insurance and BAR certification.
Best For
Homeowners and businesses needing reliable international moving services.
Pricing: Depends on destination and volume; free surveys offered.
- Website: whiteandcompany.com
- Phone: +44 20 3758 9222
- Address:4 Symons St, London SW3 2TJ, United Kingdom
- Email: customerservice@thewhitecompany.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“They handled everything smoothly when we moved to Dubai — highly dependable.”
Quick Comparison of the Top 10 International Moving Companies
| Company Name | Services Offered | Years of Experience | Customer Ratings (Out of 5) | Key Highlights |
| Pickfords | Full-service moving, storage, customs clearance | 400+ | 4.6 | Partnered with Allied International |
| Bournes | Bespoke moving plans, storage, destination services | 150+ | 4.5 | FIDI accredited |
| Abels Moving Services | Luxury relocations, fine art handling | 60+ | 4.7 | Royal Warrant holder |
| Anglo Pacific | Shipping, packing, storage | 40+ | 4.4 | Worldwide reach – 200+ destinations |
| Bishop’s Move | Full moving services, eco-friendly options | 170+ | 4.3 | Family-run business |
| Cadogan Tate | High-end and corporate relocation services | 40+ | 4.5 | Fine art and antiques specialist |
| John Mason Intl | Tailored international moves | 100+ | 4.6 | Global network |
| Gerson Relocation | Complete relocation management | 60+ | 4.5 | Visa and immigration support |
| Santa Fe Relocation | Full relocation, home & school search | 120+ | 4.4 | End-to-end mobility solutions |
| White & Company | Local and international moves, storage | 150+ | 4.3 | BAR accredited |
What Are the Common Challenges Faced During International Relocation?
Navigating Complex Customs Regulations
International relocations often involve dealing with intricate customs laws and import/export regulations that vary by country. Errors in documentation or customs paperwork can result in costly delays, penalties, or in worst cases, the loss of your belongings.Professional movers stay updated on international customs procedures and assist clients in ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete, thereby smoothing the transition across borders.
Managing Logistics and Transportation
Coordinating the movement of household goods across oceans and continents requires detailed logistical planning. Weather disruptions, port congestion, and carrier scheduling can all impact timelines. Reliable moving companies have contingency plans and strong relationships with shipping partners to mitigate such risks and keep the relocation on track.
Ensuring Proper Packing and Protection
International moves expose belongings to longer transit times and multiple handling points. Without the use of specialised packing materials and methods, possessions face an increased risk of damage during transit. Trusted moving companies use industry-standard packing methods to secure items and offer specialised crates for fragile and high-value possessions.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Professional International Moving Company?
Expertise in International Regulations
Professional movers bring extensive knowledge of global logistics and regulatory requirements. Their expertise ensures that your move complies with both the laws of the departure country and those of the destination. They handle permits, customs documentation, and tax regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
Access to End-to-End Relocation Services
Leading moving companies offer more than just packing and shipping. They provide comprehensive services including temporary housing, orientation programs, visa and immigration assistance, and even support in settling into a new job market or educational system. These value-added services ease the transition and help individuals and families adapt more quickly to their new environments.
Reduced Stress and Time Savings
Handling an overseas relocation on your own can quickly become an exhausting and time-intensive undertaking. Hiring professionals transfers much of the burden away from the individual, allowing for a more streamlined process. Clients benefit from having a single point of contact who manages all aspects of the relocation, from packing to delivery, freeing up time for more important matters like saying goodbye or preparing for life in a new country.
Conclusion
Relocating internationally is a significant life event that demands expert support. The international moving companies listed here are among the best in London, offering tailored, reliable services to ensure a smooth transition abroad. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or adventure, choosing the right mover is essential to a stress-free experience.
FAQs About International Moving Companies in London
How early should you book an international mover in London?
It’s recommended to book at least 8 to 12 weeks before your planned move to ensure availability and allow sufficient time for preparations.
Are packing services included in international moving quotes?
Most reputable movers offer comprehensive quotes that include professional packing services, but it’s essential to confirm during your consultation.
What is the average cost of moving internationally from London?
The cost can vary greatly depending on destination, volume, and services required, typically ranging from £3,000 to £10,000 or more.
How do moving companies handle customs clearance?
Professional movers handle all customs documentation and processes on your behalf, ensuring compliance with international laws and regulations.
Can I store my belongings with international movers before moving?
Yes, most international moving companies offer secure short-term and long-term storage options as part of their service packages.
Do moving companies provide insurance for international moves?
Yes, comprehensive insurance coverage is usually offered to protect your belongings during transit. Be sure to review the terms carefully.
What should you avoid when choosing an international mover?
Avoid companies with poor reviews, lack of industry certifications, unclear pricing structures, or those unwilling to provide a detailed moving plan.