Service 10
International Cargo
Professional cargo transport with customs exemption for personal belongings moving abroad.
What Is International Cargo Transport?
International cargo transport is a service that safely transfers personal belongings — items intended solely for personal use or household management, without any commercial purpose — across borders within the framework of customs exemptions, using professional packing, logistics planning, and documentation compliant with international regulations.
The foundation of this service is that the transported items do not carry commercial value and consist only of belongings necessary for the individual's daily life. The biggest difference from commercial freight transport is that the items can benefit from certain tax exemptions under the customs regime, providing cost advantages and legal convenience for individual users.
Which Items Fall Under This Scope?
Step-by-Step Cargo Transport Process
A successful process requires an operational flow where every detail has been meticulously planned.
Survey and Planning
A customized transport plan is created by determining the volume of belongings (in cubic meters), their sensitivity level, and the required packing materials.
Professional Packing
Each item is packed in compliance with international transport standards. Items are sorted by type and content information is written on each box.
Customs Clearance and Shipping
Declarations and transit documents are prepared through customs brokers. Your belongings pass smoothly through border crossings.
Delivery and Setup
After customs procedures in the destination country, belongings are delivered to your new address, your furniture is assembled, and packing waste is collected.
Required Documents and Customs Regulations
Each country has different import and export regimes. Complete documentation prevents potential customs delays.
Packing List
Contains a detailed inventory of belongings. It is the most essential document reviewed by customs officers.
Passport Copy
Current passport and identity documents of the belongings owner.
Residence Permit / Work Visa
Residence permit or work visa document for the destination country.
Settlement Certificate
A document proving you will be living in the destination country.
Notarized Power of Attorney
Given to the moving company so that customs procedures can be carried out on your behalf.
Additional Permits (If Required)
Cultural property certificates for antique items, pianos, or valuable works of art.
Customs Duty Exemption
Under the "Transfer of Residence" rules applied in many European and American countries, individuals who can prove they have lived abroad for a certain period may be exempt from customs duties on their belongings. Items proven to have been owned for at least 6 months benefit from this exemption.
Secure Packing and Insurance Options
International standard packaging is applied to minimize damage risk during a journey of thousands of kilometers.
Moisture-Resistant Kraft Paper
Provides protection against moisture damage during international journeys.
Double-Walled Heavy-Duty Cartons
Extra durability against prolonged vibration and shocks.
Bubble Wrap and Wooden Crating
Special wraps for furniture, wooden crating for fragile items.
Comprehensive Cargo Insurance
Even with the most professional packing, it safeguards the financial value of your belongings in cases such as maritime accidents, natural disasters, or unforeseen logistics disruptions. Declaring the current value of items when the policy is prepared ensures a fast and fair claims process.
What Should You Do in Case of Damage?
In case of damage, it is critical to prepare a report and photograph the damaged items during delivery. Insurance policies compensate your loss based on the values declared in the packing list. For this reason, accurately reflecting the value of your belongings is of great importance.
Cargo Transport Prices
Prices have a dynamic structure calculated from the combination of many different variables.
Belongings Volume (m³)
The arrangement in logistics vehicles and containers is planned based on this unit of measurement.
Distance and Route
The distance between origin and destination points and customs port expenses.
Transport Mode
Sea freight is the most cost-effective, air freight is the fastest option.
Additional Services
Additional services such as storage, elevator-assisted moving, and special packing.
LCL — Partial Shipment
Offers an economical solution by sharing costs for shipments that do not fill an entire container. Ideal for smaller volume shipments.
FCL — Full Container
Ideal for larger volume and special shipments. The entire container is allocated to you, providing faster and more secure delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1Which items are exempt from customs duties?
Household items that you have been using for at least 6 months and that have no commercial value (furniture, white goods, kitchenware, clothing, etc.) are exempt from customs duties. Some countries may impose limits on the number of televisions or white goods, while others may require proof of ownership duration with invoices.
2How long does transport take?
Road shipments to European countries typically take 7-14 days, while intercontinental sea shipments (to America, Australia, etc.) can take 30-60 days depending on port congestion. The duration of customs procedures also directly affects this timeline.
3Are my belongings covered by insurance?
Yes. If you are receiving service from a professional company, your belongings are insured before loading. In case of damage, it is critical to prepare a report and photograph the damaged items during delivery. Policies provide compensation based on the values declared in the packing list.
4Can I also transport a vehicle?
Yes, but vehicle transport is subject to different additional procedures than household items. The vehicle's engine capacity, year of manufacture, and emission values affect customs duties and compliance requirements in the destination country. Additional approvals from local authorities may be required for vehicle registration.
5What do you need for a price quote?
The estimated volume of your belongings (m³), full address details (including floor level and elevator availability), moving date range, and any additional services you want (storage, setup, etc.) are required. Requesting a free survey to have your belongings inspected on-site prevents unexpected costs from arising later.