International Moving Company FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

From packing to delivery, get expert answers to the most common international moving questions.

Asian Tigers Group, a leading international moving company with offices across Asia, has supported thousands of families and corporations through seamless relocations. With over 60 years of experience, the company combines personalized care with world-class logistics to handle every aspect of international mobility.

In fact, the international moving services market is projected to grow significantly: from USD 18.5 billion in 2023 to USD 31.2 billion by 2032, reflecting the rising demand for global mobility. (DataIntelo, 2025)

This FAQ guide compiles the most common questions customers ask when moving abroad, based on insights from Asian Tigers’ relocation specialists and the 2025 ChatBar AI report on trending inquiries.

1. What Does an International Moving Company Do?

An international moving company manages every stage of your move: packing, shipping, customs clearance, delivery, and unpacking. A reputable provider like Asian Tigers Group offers both door-to-door services and relocation support, including visa assistance, home search, and orientation programs.

Asian Tigers’ network spans 14 territories across Asia, ensuring that moves between countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam are coordinated with local expertise. Each branch maintains FIDI-accredited quality standards, guaranteeing global compliance and reliable service.

2. How Does Asian Tigers Ensure Safe Packing and Transport?

Packing is one of the most frequent topics raised by clients, according to the ATG ChatBar AI Report (May 2025). Asian Tigers’ trained professionals use specialized materials and techniques to protect belongings during long-distance transport.

The company offers:

• Full-service packing with durable cartons and custom crating for fragile items.
• Specialized handling for pianos, antiques, fine art, and electronics.
• Barcode tracking systems to document every item.
• Unpacking and setup at destination, including furniture placement.

Each move begins with a site survey; an in-person or virtual assessment that determines the shipment’s volume and requirements. This ensures accurate cost estimates and proper allocation of packing materials.

3. What Documents Are Required for an International Move?

Customs documentation is a critical part of global relocation. Required documents typically include:

• Passport and visa copies
• Work or residence permits
• Detailed inventory list
• Bill of lading and shipping documents
• Customs declaration forms (specific to each country)

Studies reveal documentation or customs error is one of the top causes of delays during global moves. (WIFI Talents, 2025)

Asian Tigers’ team provides country-specific customs guides and assists clients in preparing all necessary paperwork. According to the ChatBar report, questions about customs rules are among the top three inquiries from customers. Asian Tigers provides access to FIDI Customs Guides and detailed checklists on their website to simplify the process.

4. Can I Track My Shipment During Transit?

Unlike courier parcel services, most international household shipments (especially sea freight) cannot be tracked in real time. Because cargo moves through multiple parties: freight forwarders, vessels, ports, and customs, getting continuous GPS‑style tracking data is often not possible.

Instead, Asian Tigers offers what’s feasible and realistic: periodic milestone updates and detailed vessel or voyage information. Here’s how shipment visibility works in practice:

• Your assigned move coordinator monitors shipment progress and communicates updates when key milestones are reached (e.g. loading completed, vessel departure, port arrival, customs clearance, scheduled delivery);
• When available, clients are provided with vessel names and voyage numbers so they may check public maritime tracking platforms;
• The company informs clients promptly about any delays or changes in schedule.

This hybrid model, combining human coordination with milestone-based updates, offers transparency while reflecting the realities of international freight logistics.

5. How Are Costs Calculated?

The cost of an international move depends on several factors, including:

• Shipment volume (measured in cubic meters; a 40-foot container holds around 60 cbm)
• Destination and distance
• Season and timing (peak vs. off-peak)
• Mode of transport (air or sea freight)
• Additional services such as storage, insurance, or pet relocation

Asian Tigers provides transparent pricing through detailed quotes following a site survey. Asian Tigers also offers online resources like “8 Things to Consider When Calculating International Moving Costs,” helping clients understand how to budget effectively.

6. What Happens If My New Home Isn’t Ready Yet?

If your destination home isn’t move-in ready, Asian Tigers provides short and long-term storage options. Facilities are secure and monitored with CCTV, ensuring your belongings are protected for as long as needed.

This service is especially useful for expatriates who face temporary housing arrangements or delayed property handovers. Clients can schedule delivery from storage once they confirm their new address, with the same team coordinating transport and setup.

7. Does Asian Tigers Handle Special Items Like Pets, Vehicles, or Artwork?

Absolutely. Asian Tigers is known for its expertise in handling complex shipments:

• Pets – Relocations are managed through the sister company Silk Relo, which specializes in animal welfare, vaccinations, and quarantine coordination.
• Vehicles – The team assists with import and export documentation, especially for moves to countries like Japan and Australia, which have strict vehicle regulations.
• Fine Art and Antiques – Handled using museum-grade packing and climate-controlled storage.
• Pianos and Fragile Instruments – Custom-built crates and shock-resistant packaging ensure safe delivery.

These services reflect Asian Tigers’ dedication to tailored moving solutions for every customer need.

8. How Does Asian Tigers Support Sustainable Moving?

Sustainability is central to the company’s values. Asian Tigers continuously innovates to minimize environmental impact, using eco-friendly packing materials and optimizing shipment routes to reduce carbon emissions.

In 2024, the company highlighted its ESG commitment, emphasizing that environmental responsibility is not just a standard; it’s a way to safeguard the planet’s future. This approach aligns with the International Association of Movers, where Asian Tigers showcased new green initiatives and compliance strategies.

9. What Makes Asian Tigers Different from Other Movers?

Asian Tigers combines local insight with international reach. The company’s hallmarks include:

• Award-winning excellence – Asian Tigers Singapore earned Gold at the 2024 Expat Living Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Movers.
• Experienced staff – Teams receive continuous training under FIDI Academy standards.
• Client-first service – Every customer is assigned a dedicated move manager for personalized assistance.
• Global partnerships – As part of the OMNI and FIDI networks, Asian Tigers collaborates with trusted partners worldwide.

In addition, the company maintains a strong digital presence, with its Global Move podcast and destination guides that help expatriates navigate cultural transitions across Asia.

10. How Do I Get Started with an International Move?

The process begins with a pre-move consultation or site survey. You can schedule one through the Asian Tigers website or by contacting a local office. A consultant will visit your home (physically or virtually) to assess your needs and provide a tailored quote.

From there, the company handles:

1. Packing and documentation.
2. Shipping arrangements and customs processing.
3. Delivery and unpacking at your new residence.

Throughout the process, you’ll receive updates, guidance, and support to make the experience as seamless as possible.

11. What Should I Know Before My Move?

Before you relocate internationally, keep these key tips in mind:

• Start early. Begin planning at least three months before your move.
• Declutter. Reduce shipment size to save on costs.
• Understand customs restrictions. Some countries prohibit specific food, plants, or electronic items.
• Get comprehensive insurance. Protect your belongings against unexpected events.
• Stay in touch. Maintain regular communication with your move coordinator.

Asian Tigers provides downloadable checklists and country guides to help you prepare, ensuring no step is overlooked.

Final Thoughts

Moving internationally is a complex process, but with the right partner, it can also be an enriching and worry-free experience. Asian Tigers Group stands out for its professionalism, transparency, and care, offering clients more than just logistics. It delivers peace of mind.

From the first box packed to the moment you settle in your new home, you’ll know your move is in capable hands. Whether it’s tracking shipments, handling customs, or managing special cargo, Asian Tigers ensures every move is handled with precision and respect.

Visit asiantigersgroup.com to request a quote or explore detailed guides on international relocation, storage, and customs requirements. Your next chapter begins with confidence. Let’s get moving.

Further Reading

[1] DataIntelo. (2025). International Moving Services Market Analysis. https://dataintelo.com/report/international-moving-services-market

[2] WIFI Talents. (2025). Relocation Industry Statistics. https://wifitalents.com/relocation-industry-statistics/

[3] Coherent Market Insights. (2025). Global Moving Services Market Report. https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/industry-reports/moving-services-market