The DMV Is One of the Country's Highest-Density International Relocation Markets
Northern Virginia and the broader DMV area send more international relocations per capita than almost any other region in the United States. The federal government, military, diplomatic corps, international organizations, and global corporations headquartered in the region generate constant demand for international moving expertise. Around Town Movers has handled international relocations from Northern Virginia since 2006, working with individuals and families moving to destinations across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
International Moving Requires a Different Scope
A domestic move ends when the truck arrives at the destination. An international move involves ocean or air freight, customs clearance in the destination country, local delivery at the other end, and compliance with import regulations that vary by country. The domestic leg — packing your home, crating specialty items, and getting your shipment to the port or freight terminal — is where Around Town Movers operates directly.
Packing and Crating for International Shipment
Ocean freight and air freight have different requirements than domestic trucking. Items need to be packed to withstand longer transit, port handling, and potential humidity exposure. Key considerations include:
- Custom crating: Artwork, antiques, and specialty furniture require custom-built wooden crates for international shipment, not standard cardboard boxes.
- ISPM 15 compliance: Wooden crating and packing materials must meet international phytosanitary standards, which means using heat-treated or fumigated wood that is certified and stamped.
- Inventory documentation: International customs requires a detailed inventory of your shipment by item and estimated value. Around Town Movers provides the inventory documentation needed for clearance.
What to Expect on the Destination Side
Around Town Movers coordinates with vetted international moving partners at the destination for final delivery. We are transparent about the handoff point — there is no pretending a single company handles the entire globe. What we guarantee is that the domestic packing, crating, and documentation is done correctly so your shipment clears customs without delays caused by inadequate paperwork or improper crating.
Government and Military Moves
Government-sponsored international relocations (PCS orders, diplomatic assignments) often involve specific entitlement rules and vendor authorization requirements. Around Town Movers has experience working within government move frameworks from its Northern Virginia base.
