International Removals to California
California has long enchanted Brits with its sunny beaches, majestic mountains and laidback lifestyle. This West Coast state continues to rank as one of the top relocation destinations for UK citizens looking to move overseas.
With over two decades of experience assisting Brits move to California, we understand how to simplify the international removals process. Our specialists will manage shipping, customs coordination and insurance to ensure your belongings arrive safely. Whether you're moving to lively Los Angeles, the tech hub of San Francisco or idyllic San Diego, we provide personalised international removals services. Let our expertise guide you through every step, allowing you to embrace the California lifestyle you've always dreamed of stress-free.
Get a free quote for removals to California here.
With over 25 years of experience moving households from the UK to California, 1st Move International has perfected the process of overseas relocation.
As long established members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and the British International Freight Association (BIFA) we are fully accredited and compliant with industry regulations. Our teams are experts at navigating customs formalities, organizing shipping logistics, and ensuring your possessions arrive safely at your new home.
Here's what to expect when you choose 1st Move International for your upcoming move:
- Full export packing and wrapping of all items onto pallets
- Precise volume measurement to confirm costs
- Weekly container shipping services for fast transit times
- Real-time tracking so you know where your shipment is
- Fully insured door-to-door delivery direct to your new home
With thousands of happy customers and a 4.5-star Trustpilot rating, you can trust us to handle your relocation with care.
Don't settle for slow, unreliable shipping. For your upcoming move to California, choose the experts at 1st Move International. Get your no-hassle quote today!
How Much Does it Cost to Move to California?
International Removals & Shipping Costs UK to California
Short Answer: Shipping costs for international removals to California start from £1,328 for small shipments, £9,743 for a three bed house move in a 20ft container and £11,846 for a 4-5 bed house move in a 40ft container. These are shipping costs only as the final price ultimately depends on the total volume of your shipment, collection/delivery, packing costs and insurance.
Due to the variables in estimating removals costs, we are unable to provide estimates that include collection/delivery, insurance, packing etc. without further information about your move. Please request a free quote here on our website to receive a full quote that includes all of these costs, based on the information that you provide.
How Long Does it Take to Ship to California?
Shipping Times from the UK to California
The average port to port transit time from the UK to California is 30 days, or 4-5 weeks. Sailings are on our weekly consolidated container services from the UK.
Check out our USA container shipping schedule for more detailed information.
Why Choose 1st Move?
Moving overseas can feel complicated, but our California relocation specialists use decades of experience to simplify the process of international removals from the UK.
We provide complete door-to-door service, managing customs, logistics and insurance so you can dive into the California lifestyle faster. Using our unique palletised packing method, your belongings remain undisturbed in secure shrink wrap from your UK home to delivery in California. Weekly shipments mean no long waits.
Whether you're moving a studio apartment or entire house, our experts tailor solutions while reducing stress. Count on us for the safest transportation of your possessions.
Trust our expertise gained from thousands of UK moves to make your relocation hassle-free. Get your free quote so you can start embracing sunny California sooner.
Top Destinations in California
Los Angeles
LA is often the first California stop for Brits with its glitz, beaches and endless sun. Neighbourhoods like Santa Monica and Venice offer coastal living while hubs like West Hollywood and Downtown provide urban energy. LA offers entertainment jobs while also being a hotbed for startup innovation.
San Francisco
The cultural hub of San Francisco lures Brits with its iconic beauty and thriving tech scene. The city's vibrant neighborhoods and mild climate make everyday feel like a weekend. Surrounding Silicon Valley provides unparalleled careers in software and biotech, though cost of living is high.
San Diego
For an appealing beach lifestyle without LA prices, San Diego is a top choice. Brits love the family-friendly vibe of North County coastal towns like Encinitas and Carlsbad. The city itself boasts enviable weather, a laidback ambience and many UK expats.
Why Move to California?
California has long beckoned Brits with its sunny Mediterranean climate, laidback lifestyle and abundance of natural beauty. But beyond the sandy beaches and striking landscapes, the Golden State provides booming career opportunities in industries like tech, renewable energy and biotech. Major companies are constantly hiring skilled workers.
California also offers access to some of the world's top universities for those looking to advance their education. Outside the expensive cities, relatively affordable homes can be found to provide better value. The state's diversity and inclusion make it easy to find community. With endless sunshine, thriving job prospects and plenty of amenities, it’s easy to understand California’s appeal to Brits looking to relocate overseas.
Get Your Quote for Removals to California
With over 25 years' experience, faster shipping and safer packing, trust 1st Move International to handle your move to California. Request a free quote today to start your journey.
Helpful Resources for Moving to California
- UK Government's Living in the USA Guide
- British Expats in California Forums:
- US Embassy & Consulates in the UK
- California British Expats Meetup Groups
- USA Buying/Renting Guide
- Navigating the U.S. Healthcare System
- Transfer Money to the USA with Currencies Direct
- How to Get a Job in the United States (as an Expat)
- UK vs USA Culture Guide
- UK vs USA Cost of Living Comparison
Your life, carefully wrapped, beautifully packed, and protected for the journey ahead.
We are extremely proud of our unique packing process. We are one of the only international movers in the UK that uses this tried and tested method to ship your treasured personal possessions overseas.
This is our craft - lives packed with care and attention for their journey overseas. Visit our Facebook page to find a snapshot of each shipment captured as the final pallet is wrapped.
We're proud to post these images, showcasing our removals team's passion and skill. Your personal effects are in the very best hands and are now destined for new adventures abroad.
Come and have a look.
