Relocation shipping for personal belongings requires correct packing, accurate customs value declarations, and the right documentation for each destination. Key facts: a 60×40×40 cm box has a volumetric weight of 19.2 kg even if nearly empty; customs declaration as "used personal belongings" is required; and returning Israeli citizens qualify for customs exemptions on up to two shipments within nine months of return.
Planning a relocation? It's essential to pack correctly and follow shipping rules to avoid mistakes. The way you hand over the box to the courier is exactly how it will be loaded onto the plane. In this guide, we provide useful tips on proper packing, customs value declaration, and international shipping services.
Shipping Personal Belongings – How to Pack Correctly?
To ensure your items arrive safely, pack them properly. Once you hand over the box, it will go directly onto the plane.
- Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or fabric to prevent damage.
- You can use any box size, but shipping costs depend on size and weight. Therefore, pack efficiently to avoid extra charges for empty space. For example, a 60×40×40 cm box has a volumetric weight of 19.2 kg. Even if it's empty, you'll still pay for 19.2 kg.
- Prepare a detailed inventory list for each box. Ideally, create a PDF in English that includes item values.
Here is an example of the correct inventory format:
| Carton Number | Contents Description | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| BOX 1 | 10 used shirts, 10 used pants | 20 |
| BOX 2 | Used computer monitor | 50 |
| BOX 3 | 10 used kitchen utensils, 3 used books | 13 |
Based on ShippingToGo's analysis, incorrect or missing inventory documentation is the most common cause of customs delays for relocation shipments. Preparing accurate, detailed inventory lists in English before shipping reduces clearance time significantly.
Service Includes
- Door-to-door shipping with home delivery.
- Estimated delivery time: 7–15 business days.
- Online tracking for your shipment.
- Free power of attorney service (normally costs 150 NIS).
- Customs declaration stating that the items are used personal belongings.
- Service excludes duties and taxes in the destination country.
General Requirements
- Identification for shipping: A copy of an ID (passport, national ID, or driver's license) is required for customs clearance. This rule applies to all personal shipments in Israel, regardless of destination.
- Changing box contents: Once the bill of lading is issued, you cannot change the contents.
- Recipient in the destination country: The recipient must be a local resident (citizen, work visa holder, or student visa holder). If unavailable, you can use a neighbor, friend, or landlord.
- Carrying service: Couriers are not responsible for carrying heavy items. However, this service may be available for an additional fee. If there's no elevator, bring boxes to the ground floor for pickup.
Prohibited Items
Check restrictions before shipping to your destination. You can refer to the FedEx list of prohibited items as a general reference.
However, this list may not include all restrictions for your specific destination. It's best to check with local authorities in the destination country before shipping. Common categories that are prohibited or restricted include:
- Hazardous materials and flammable substances
- Weapons and ammunition
- Certain food and agricultural products (varies by country)
- Counterfeit goods
- Certain medications and pharmaceuticals (require prior approval)
Shipping to South America
Shipping to Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, and Venezuela requires customs brokerage. To avoid delays, arrange a local customs broker in advance. These destinations have specific customs regulations for personal effects that differ from standard international shipping rules.
Returning Residents to Israel (Returning Citizen or Student)
Returning citizens or students (who lived abroad for at least two consecutive years and are now settling in Israel) qualify for customs and VAT exemption on up to two shipments. The shipments must arrive within nine months of returning.
- For a full list of qualifying items, see the Israel Tax Authority guide for returning residents.
- The exemption is valid for nine months after returning.
- A copy of the resident's ID is required. If customs request proof of residence abroad (e.g., a rental contract or pay stubs), submit them within the deadline.
- Track your shipment to monitor any customs requirements.
First-Time Immigrants
- New immigrants receive customs and VAT exemptions on up to three international shipments.
- All shipments must be completed within three years of obtaining immigrant status.
- A copy of the immigrant's ID is required. If customs require proof of residence abroad, submit the documents within the specified timeframe.
- Monitor your shipment using the tracking link provided at the time of booking.
Returning Residents to Europe
- To receive customs benefits in Europe, you must provide proof of residence in Israel for over a year (e.g., a lease agreement or pay stubs).
- This rule applies only in certain European countries. We cannot assist with this process. If eligible, contact the relevant authority in the destination country.
This list does not cover all possible scenarios. Always check with local authorities in your destination country before shipping.
We are not customs brokers and cannot provide customs advice. Additionally, regulations change frequently. We do not guarantee the accuracy of this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Relocation Shipping
How do I pack personal belongings for international shipping?
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or fabric. Pack efficiently to minimize empty space — a 60×40×40 cm box has a volumetric weight of 19.2 kg even if nearly empty. Prepare a detailed inventory PDF in English for each box listing item descriptions and estimated USD values. This inventory is required for customs clearance.
What is included in the relocation shipping service?
ShippingToGo's relocation shipping service includes: door-to-door delivery with home delivery, estimated 7–15 business days delivery time, online tracking, free power of attorney service, and a customs declaration stating items are used personal belongings. Duties and taxes at the destination country are excluded from the service price.
What identification is required for relocation shipping?
A copy of a valid ID is required for customs clearance — passport, national ID card, or driver's license. This applies to all personal shipments. The recipient in the destination country must be a local resident, citizen, or valid visa holder. Couriers can also use a neighbor, friend, or landlord as the local recipient.
Do returning citizens and immigrants get customs exemptions?
In Israel, returning citizens who lived abroad for at least two consecutive years qualify for customs and VAT exemption on up to two shipments arriving within nine months of return. New immigrants receive customs and VAT exemptions on up to three international shipments completed within three years of obtaining immigrant status.
What items are prohibited from international relocation shipping?
Prohibited items vary by destination and include hazardous materials, flammable substances, weapons, certain food products, and some medications. Refer to the FedEx prohibited items list as a starting point, but always verify with local authorities for your specific destination country.
What is volumetric weight and why does it matter for relocation?
Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight) is calculated as length × width × height (cm) divided by 5000. Carriers charge based on the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight. A large, lightly packed box may cost more than expected because of volumetric billing. Pack efficiently to minimize empty space and reduce shipping costs.
