Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted International Removals in Bristol
1st Move International stands as one of the UK's largest independent international removals specialists, with over 25 years of dedicated service. Established in 1997, our expertise lies in the secure and efficient transportation of household goods overseas, underpinned by a patented palletised shipping system and black shrink-wrap packing methodology. As proud members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and the British International Freight Association (BIFA), we adhere to rigorous industry standards, ensuring financial stability, regulatory compliance, and ethical practices. Our team of seasoned professionals provides end-to-end solutions, from customs documentation to 24/7 container tracking, with a focus on minimising risks and maximising protection for every shipment. With a global network spanning key destinations such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UAE, we combine innovative logistics with personalised service, evidenced by our 98% on-time delivery rate and 135,000+ satisfied customers. Our commitment to transparency is reflected in clear pricing structures, no hidden fees, and a 10% early booking discount, while our in-house customs brokerage expedites clearance processes. Recognised by insurers for our low claims ratio, we maintain continuous staff training and invest in modern fleets to uphold our reputation as a trusted partner in international relocations.
Services
International Removals
Container Shipping
Car Shipping
Airfreight
Packing Services
Customs Clearance
Storage Solutions
Tracking Systems
Insurance Cover
Destination Delivery
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of expertise in international removals with patented packing systems
- BAR and BIFA accredited for industry-leading standards
- 24/7 container tracking and electronic customs clearance
- Free UK storage up to next scheduled sailing date
- 10% early booking discount with no deposit required
Associations and certifications
- British Association of Removers
- British International Freight Association
What people say
Perfect packing
On-time delivery
Professional staff
Excellent communication
No damage
Services
International Removals
Specialist international removals service offering end-to-end relocation solutions from the UK to 45+ countries. Utilising a patented palletised system with multiple protective layers, we ensure maximum safety for household goods during transit. Our BAR-accredited team manages every aspect including customs documentation, container loading, and final delivery.
Container Shipping
Flexible container shipping options available as shared or dedicated 20ft/40ft units. Weekly sailings to major destinations with real-time tracking systems. Shared containers suit smaller shipments up to 15 cubic metres, while full containers accommodate complete household relocations with direct home loading available.
Car Shipping
Secure vehicle transportation service for private car relocations. Experienced in handling import regulations across 45 countries, with specialist crating options for classic vehicles. Competitive pricing from 1,200 including port-to-port delivery and comprehensive transit insurance coverage.
Airfreight
Urgent airfreight solutions for time-sensitive items requiring rapid international delivery. Capable of shipping essential documents, medical equipment, or household essentials within 3-5 days. Pricing from 15 per kilogram with real-time tracking and customs brokerage included.
Packing Services
Full-service packing using industry-leading materials and techniques developed over 25 years. Our trained packers utilise reinforced cartons, shrink-wrap protection, and custom crating for fragile items. Service includes inventory management and valuation documentation to ensure complete shipment security.
Questions
What factors determine international removal costs?
Costs depend on shipment volume, destination, and container type. Shared containers start at £1,250 while full containers range from £4,500–7,500. Additional factors include packing requirements and insurance coverage.
How does customs clearance work?
Our in-house customs brokers handle all documentation electronically through CHIEF system. We prepare necessary paperwork including EORI declarations and destination-specific forms to ensure smooth clearance at both departure and arrival ports.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes, we provide 24/7 online tracking with real-time updates from collection through final delivery. Customers receive container numbers and access to our tracking portal for complete visibility.
What items cannot be shipped?
Prohibited items include perishables, hazardous materials, and restricted goods specific to destination countries. A full list of prohibited items is available on our website with guidance for compliant shipping.
Do you offer packing services?
Yes, our professional packing service uses custom materials and patented techniques developed over 25 years. We offer full packing or partial assistance with specialist crating available for fragile or valuable items.
What protection do you offer for shipments?
All shipments include comprehensive transit insurance covering damage or loss. Our unique packing system with multiple protective layers significantly reduces risks during international transportation.
Reviews (3)
Alexander
Dec 14, 2023
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We chose 1st Move to move from London (UK) to Vancouver (BC) earlier this year and were very pleased with how the move went. The pick up team was amazing: 30 minutes and everything from our two bedroom flat was in the truck. Communication was seamless and welcoming throughout the entire process. The fragile items were wrapped and packaged amazingly, and as a result everything arrived safe and sound, and it took only about 5 weeks. Thanks 1st Move, we will reach out again if we are looking to move in the future.
Richard Preece
Aug 10, 2023
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Preparing for the shipping was good with quick answers to queries and lots of helpful advice. The reimbursement of the cost of boxes was appreciated and easy to sort. The collection team were quick and efficient. Delivery was equally good and the help from the Cayman agent excellent. We liked knowing the ship and could track progress and would have liked to know the second ship for the final leg from Florida. Very good and we would definitely use again if needed.
David Brennan
Jan 05, 2023
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Auto shippers made this very easy for me to do. Since this is the 1st time I've actually tried to ship a car from GB I didn't have a clue. Auto shippers staff answered all my questions and did everything they said they would. My car arrived at its final destination 1 day past the expected delivery date and to me that is a win!