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International Moving Tools, Container Sizes, Shipping Terms & Quote Help
Estimate shipment volume, compare packed versus loose volume, review container dimensions, calculate marine insurance, and understand common overseas moving terms before you book.
Helpful information for planning an overseas move
Use the calculators below to estimate shipment size, compare likely shipping methods, and review common international moving terms and exclusions before requesting a quote.
As a practical rule, once a shipment begins getting near 500 CFT or more, it is often worth comparing against a 20ft container, especially when LCL handling and destination-side fees start adding up.
Interactive Moving Volume Calculator
Select common household items room by room to estimate shipment volume for overseas moving. This is a planning tool only.
Living Room
Bedroom
Dining / Kitchen
Office
Garage / Storage
Outdoor / Special Items
Planning tool only. Final chargeable volume may change based on furniture size, packing method, cartons, crating, access, and final inventory.
Quick Room-by-Room Estimator
Enter how many of each room type the shipment includes, then click Estimate by Room. For item-by-item counting, use the Interactive Moving Volume Calculator above.
Planning tool only. Room sizes and furniture density vary widely, so final volume may be higher or lower.
Manual Cubic Feet Calculator
Enter custom item dimensions in inches for a more manual estimate.
Marine Insurance Calculator
Use this planning tool to estimate marine insurance based on declared value and packing type.
- Professionally packed goods may qualify for full coverage, subject to insurer approval.
- Owner-packed cartons are usually limited to total loss only coverage.
- Self-packed total loss coverage commonly uses a $5,000 minimum declared value.
- Artwork, antiques, electronics, fragile items, and custom crates may require special review.
Common Container Dimensions for Overseas Moving
These are practical planning dimensions and approximate capacities for common sea freight containers used in international moving.
| Container | Approx. Interior Dimensions | Approx. Capacity | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft | 19’4” x 7’8” x 7’10” | ~1,150 CFT | Often worth comparing once shipment size gets near 500 CFT or more. |
| 40ft | 39’5” x 7’8” x 7’10” | ~2,350 CFT | Usually for larger household moves or higher-volume shipments. |
| 40ft High Cube | 39’5” x 7’8” x 8’10” | ~2,650 CFT | Useful for taller loads and larger full-home moves. |
Common International Moving and Shipping Terms
Less than Container Load. Your shipment shares space in a container with other cargo and is commonly used for smaller moves.
A shared-container service often used in household goods moving programs where multiple shipments are consolidated and separated through a warehouse or moving network.
Full Container Load. The shipment moves in its own dedicated container.
Cubic Meter, a metric measurement of volume commonly used in international shipping.
Cubic Feet, a common measurement used in US household goods estimates.
Terminal Handling Charges related to handling cargo through the port or terminal.
Service from the origin residence to the final destination residence, subject to route, customs, access, and exclusions.
Service from the origin residence to the destination port only. Final delivery is not included.
Common Quote Exclusions and Extra Charge Definitions
Many international moving quotes include standard services but exclude certain charges that depend on customs, port conditions, access, scheduling, or destination requirements.
A terminal or port charge that can apply when a container is not removed within the free time allowed.
A government-ordered cargo examination. Fees related to inspections, exams, unpacking, rehandling, and delays are usually not included in standard quotes.
A charge that may apply when a full-size truck or container cannot access the residence and a smaller vehicle is needed.
A charge that can apply when movers must carry goods an unusually long distance from the truck to the residence.
Charges that may apply when goods cannot be delivered immediately and must be held in a warehouse.
Charges that may apply if delivery cannot be completed as scheduled and the shipment must be returned on another day.
Government charges are generally not included unless specifically stated in writing.
Oversized furniture, pianos, safes, hoisting, cranes, awkward access, or extra labor is often quoted separately when needed.
Country Customs Guides
Customs rules, required documents, prohibited items, and import procedures vary by country. IAM country guides are a helpful starting point before shipping overseas.
View IAM Country GuidesHelpful Links
Need help choosing the best shipping option?
We can review your inventory, estimate likely chargeable volume, compare LCL versus FCL options, and explain likely destination-side considerations before you book.
Planning tools only. Final chargeable volume, insurance eligibility, and service recommendations can change based on packing, access, route, declared value, special handling, customs procedures, and final inventory.
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