Choosing the Right Moving Service for You
Moving to Mexico is an exciting adventure, but relocating your belongings can be complex and costly. Whether moving a small load or an entire household, understanding the different moving services available can help ensure a smooth process.
Types of Relocation Services
1. Dedicated Moving
A dedicated move means your belongings travel in a truck exclusively reserved for you. This is the fastest and most reliable option, ensuring your items are transported directly without stops or handling delays. However, this level of service typically comes at a higher cost.
Best for:
- Tight timelines
- Large household moves
- High-value or fragile items
2. Shared Moving
For those looking to reduce costs, a shared move allows you to split truck space with another client whose route aligns with yours. While this option is more affordable, it requires flexibility in pickup and delivery times.
Best for:
- Budget-conscious movers
- Flexible timelines
- Smaller shipments
3. Fractional Moving
If you’re unsure choosing the right moving service for you, what to move or need time to send your belongings in batches, fractional moving allows for multiple shipments. Your items are consolidated at a central warehouse before being transported together.
Best for:
- Gradual relocation
- Uncertain move dates
- Smaller loads spread over time
How to Estimate the Volume of Your Move
Understanding the space required for your move can help you choose the right truck size. Moving companies typically measure volume in cubic feet (CuFt) and offer different vehicle sizes:
Truck Size | Cubic Feet Capacity | Best for |
Sedan | 16–24 CuFt | Small personal items or pet transport |
Minivan | 120 CuFt | Small furniture, boxes, or pet transport |
12FT Cargo Truck | 350 CuFt | Studio apartment or small move |
16FT Cargo Truck | 650 CuFt | 2-bedroom household |
26FT Cargo Truck | 1400 CuFt | Full 4-bedroom home |
Pro Tip: To estimate your needs, consider mapping out a rectangle in your garage and stacking your boxes inside to get a visual representation of space.
What You Can and Cannot Ship
While most household goods are allowed, some restrictions apply when moving internationally. Prohibited items include:
- Flammable items (e.g., batteries, alcohol, aerosols)
- Weapons and ammunition
- Live animals (except approved pet transport)
- Plants, fruits, and vegetables
- Large amounts of cash or valuable jewelry
- Illegal substances, including some medications
Customs regulations vary, so always check with authorities to ensure compliance.
Packing Tips for a Smooth Move
Proper packing is essential to prevent damage during transit. Here are some key recommendations:
- Use sturdy, well-sealed boxes and avoid overloading them.
- Transparent plastic tote boxes with lids make for easy custom inspections
- Fill empty spaces inside boxes with clothing, towels, or packing material to prevent shifting.
- Protect fragile items with bubble wrap and packing blankets.
- Label all boxes with numbers corresponding to an inventory list.
- Place extra copies of lists inside boxes to speed up inspection.
- Translate lists into Spanish.
- Heavy items (70+ lbs) should be disclosed in advance to ensure proper handling.
Creating an Inventory List
A detailed inventory list is required for customs and insurance purposes. It should include six details:
- Item number
- Category (Box, Furniture, Loose Item)
- Description (e.g., “Kitchenware” or “Sofa”)
- Value
- Condition (New or Used)
- Special handling notes (Fragile, Heavy, etc.)
For high-value items, receipts may be required to confirm their worth.
Understanding Customs Procedures
Every country has its own customs regulations. When moving to Mexico, you will either:
- Self-Declare: Pay an import duty (usually 19% of declared value).
- Use a Customs Broker: Helps facilitate entry under a household goods exemption to avoid taxes, but processing times vary.
Be prepared for customs officials to inspect every box to verify its contents. To avoid delays, ensure your inventory is accurate and transparent.
Final Delivery and Insurance
Once cleared through customs, your items will be delivered to your new home. Standard delivery is to your doorstep, but additional charges for carrying items upstairs or beyond a set distance may apply, so ask your mover.
Insurance Considerations:
- New items must be in their original packaging for full coverage.
- Used items may have limited coverage depending on their condition and packing.
- Any damage claims must be filed upon delivery—waiting days or weeks could void claims.
Payment & Scheduling
Most relocation services require payment installments. Here’s an example:
- 50% deposit to book the move
- 25% after pickup
- 25% before final unloading
Cancellations and refunds depend on the type of move booked. Dedicated moves may allow for date changes, while shared and fractional moves are typically non-refundable.
Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Move
- Start planning at least 3 months before the move date.
- Create a detailed inventory list with photos.
- Pack sturdily and label all boxes clearly.
- Be patient with customs—delays can happen.
- Work with reputable relocation experts who understand the legalities of moving across borders.
Relocating to Mexico can be a seamless experience when you choose the right service, pack smartly, and stay informed about customs regulations. With careful planning, your move can be stress-free and successful. Choosing the right moving service for you is crucial!
