Planning your international move can be exciting, but one of the most common questions is: how long will it take for your belongings to arrive? Typically, ocean freight takes 4 to 8 weeks, while air freight may be quicker, ranging from 7 to 21 days.
Your bags are packed, your passport’s ready, and your destination awaits, but your belongings? Still in transit. One of the most common questions in any overseas relocation is: how long will it take for my belongings to arrive?
At moveforce, we answer all your questions about delivery times and provide seamless relocation and storage services.
Understanding the Factors That Affect Delivery Time
International moves are not “one box fits all.” A mix of predictable logistics and unexpected twists influences the shipping time for international relocation. Here are the biggest players:
1. Transport Mode: Ocean vs. Air
Ocean freight is the go-to for most full household moves. It’s more affordable, but slower. A container shipped from the US to Portugal, for instance, can take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the route. If you’re shipping from Asia or Australia, note that delivery may take 10 weeks or more.
Need something faster? Air freight is quicker – think 7 to 21 days – but the cost is significantly higher, and space is limited. Great for urgent essentials, but not for your entire library.
2. Origin and Destination
The closer you are to major ports or transport hubs, the smoother the process. For example, moving from New York to Lisbon? Fairly streamlined. From a rural village in Canada to the Algarve? Expect more coordination and a longer duration for international moves, particularly when they involve vehicle transportation or large specialty items.
3. Container Type and Shipment Size
There’s a big difference between an FCL (Full Container Load) and an LCL (Less than Container Load). FCLs are like private taxis—direct and efficient. LCLs are more like shared Ubers – cheaper, but subject to waiting for others and more stops.
FCL = faster, often within 4–6 weeks;
LCL = potentially 8–12 weeks with more handling and consolidation.
4. Customs and Local Bureaucracy
Even once your container touches down in Portugal, it’s not quite ready to be unpacked. Customs clearance, inspections, paperwork issues, and duties can add days – or even weeks – to the schedule. That’s where moveforce really shines: we handle all customs procedures so you don’t have to worry about them.
5. Seasonality and External Delays
Planning your move around summer? So is everyone else. High-demand periods, holidays, strikes, port congestion, and adverse weather conditions can all impact your overseas relocation delivery times.
For instance, shipping during the December holiday season or the Chinese New Year often results in significant delays.
Average Delivery Times for Different Types of International Moves
While every case is unique, there are general timeframes that can serve as a guide.
If you’re moving to Portugal from within Europe, you can typically expect delivery within two to four weeks. For moves from North or South America, four to six weeks is a reasonable expectation (assuming no major disruptions).
For relocations from Asia or Oceania, the estimated delivery times for international moves can range from six to ten weeks, especially when using a shared container or shipping during peak periods.
In short, the time frame for moving abroad is more flexible than fixed. At moveforce, we help clients manage this uncertainty by offering real-time updates, full-service coordination, and expert guidance throughout the process.
From packing materials to unloading, our goal is to keep your move running smoothly and to keep you informed at every stage.
Tips for Ensuring a Smooth and Timely Arrival of Your Belongings
You can’t control the weather or port delays, but you can take steps to improve your chances of a punctual, stress-free delivery. Here’s how:
Start Early and Be Strategic
Begin planning at least 2-3 months ahead. Choose your moving date wisely and book your shipping space in advance, especially during peak seasons. moveforce’s early planning ensures better routes and faster service-a smart approach for anyone wondering how to move their belongings efficiently.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
One missing document can delay your shipment by weeks. Make sure you’ve submitted your packing list, residence proof, visa information, and other required forms.
Not sure what you need? moveforce takes care of the paperwork-including everything required for customs clearance-so you don’t have to sweat the fine print.
Track Your Shipment
Ask for a tracking system, or better yet, choose a company like moveforce to provide proactive updates. Knowing where your container is (and when it will arrive) gives peace of mind and helps with planning.
Pack Essentials Separately
No one wants to live in limbo for weeks. Carry essentials with you: clothes, medication, documents, and even a few home comforts. moveforce offers partial air shipment options if you need essentials delivered before the full container arrives.
Consider Storage Services
Not ready to receive your shipment right away? moveforce offers secure storage in Portugal. This is especially helpful if your new home isn’t move-in ready, or you’re still finalizing legal documentation.
So… How Long Does It Really Take?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most clients using moveforce experience international moving delivery times ranging from 4 to 8 weeks from packing to final delivery. Some arrive earlier. Some take a bit longer. The important thing is knowing what to expect and partnering with experts who make it feel easy.
By understanding the timeframe for moving abroad, preparing proactively, and selecting the right services, you’re setting yourself up for success.
Ready to Ship?
When moving overseas, you start a new chapter with confidence. With moveforce, you don’t just get a delivery service. You get a trusted team who treats your belongings like their own.
Let us handle the customs, the packing, the waiting… so you can focus on the exciting part: arriving home.
Contact moveforce today to request a free quote or explore more tips in our moving blog.
