Relocating or sending goods across continents can feel daunting, especially when you’re moving items from India to the USA. Whether you’re an expat heading back home, a student shipping personal belongings, or a business transporting commercial cargo, choosing the right shipping company is key to a smooth experience. From navigating customs regulations to ensuring your items arrive safely, the process has its challenges, but a reliable partner can make it stress-free.
With the Indian diaspora in the USA growing—over 4.8 million strong in 2023—and U.S.-India trade hitting $129.2 billion in 2024, the need for efficient international shipping has never been higher. This article highlights five top companies that excel in moving household goods, personal items, and commercial cargo from India to the USA. We’ll explore their services, strengths, and what sets them apart, starting with our top choice, Universal Relocations.
1. Universal Relocations: Your Trusted Partner for International Moves
Background
Since its founding in 1998, Universal Relocations has become a go-to name for international relocations. With five offices in India, five in the USA, and one in Dubai, the company handles over 10,000 household moves annually. Their door-to-door services make them a standout for Shipping from India to USA
Services Offered
Universal Relocations provides a wide range of solutions:
- Household Goods: Expert packing and transport for furniture, appliances, and fragile items.
- Personal Belongings: Perfect for smaller shipments like boxes or luggage.
- Commercial Cargo: Tailored logistics for businesses moving bulk goods.
- Pet Relocation: Safe, compliant transport for pets with proper documentation.
- Groupage Service: Share container space for cost-effective, eco-friendly shipping.
- Customs Clearance: Seamless handling of paperwork and inspections.
- Transit Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.
Key Strengths and Reputation
Clients rave about Universal Relocations’ customer service, with representatives like Sharmila in India resolving issues quickly, such as recovering lost items within days. Their 24/7 online tracking and dedicated move managers keep you informed. Fully licensed and insured, they ensure compliance with international standards.
Ideal For
- Families relocating entire households.
- Students sending personal items.
- Businesses needing reliable cargo solutions.
- Pet owners seeking hassle-free pet transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive network across India and the USA.
- Exceptional support with real-time tracking.
- Wide range of services, including pet relocation.
- Affordable groupage options for smaller loads.
Cons:
- Occasional minor damage to boxes, though resolved promptly.
Learn more about their services for shipping from India to the USA.
2. UniRelo: Transparent and Reliable Shipping
Background
UniRelo, part of SKY 2 C Freight Systems, Inc., has over 15 years of experience in international moving. Licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), UniRelo is a trusted choice for Indian expats and businesses relocating to India.
Services Offered
UniRelo offers:
- Door-to-Door Shipping: Pickup in the USA and delivery to major Indian cities.
- FCL and LCL Options: Full Container Load for large moves and Less than Container Load for smaller ones.
- Packing Services: Professional packing to protect your items.
- Customs Clearance: Efficient handling at Indian ports.
- Cargo Insurance: Full replacement value coverage.
Key Strengths and Reputation
UniRelo’s transparency sets it apart. Their website provides detailed guides for first-time movers, and their team is known for patient, responsive support. With an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and weekly sailings from U.S. ports, they deliver reliability.
Ideal For
- Small to medium-sized shipments (LCL).
- First-time movers needing clear guidance.
- Businesses seeking insured cargo transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- A+ BBB rating and FMC licensing.
- Affordable LCL and packing services.
- User-friendly resources and support.
Cons:
- Limited details on pet relocation.
- Slower for urgent moves compared to air freight.
3. Three Movers: Flexible and Comprehensive Solutions
Background
Three Movers specializes in international relocations, offering end-to-end services for moves from India to the USA. Their expertise in both personal and corporate shipping makes them a versatile option.
Services Offered
Their services include:
- Door-to-Door Delivery: From your U.S. home to cities like Mumbai or Delhi.
- Air and Ocean Freight: Air cargo (5–10 days) for urgent items and ocean freight (30–45 days) for larger loads.
- Customs Support: Assistance with documentation and inspections.
- Full Valuation Protection: Insurance to safeguard your goods.
Key Strengths and Reputation
Three Movers is praised for transparent pricing and customizable plans. Clients highlight smooth moves from states like Texas, with real-time tracking adding reassurance. Their ability to handle diverse shipment sizes adds flexibility.
Ideal For
- Families with large household moves.
- Businesses needing flexible timelines.
- Those valuing clear pricing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Air and ocean freight options.
- Strong customs compliance support.
- Real-time shipment tracking.
Cons:
- Ocean freight can take up to 9 weeks.
- Limited focus on specialized services like pet relocation.
4. Seven Seas Worldwide: Innovative MoveCube® for Smaller Moves
Background
With 25 years in the industry, Seven Seas Worldwide is known for its MoveCube® service, a secure pod for smaller shipments. This makes them a great fit for students and individuals moving to India.
Services Offered
Their offerings include:
- MoveCube® Service: Available in three sizes for household goods and personal items.
- Customs Guidance: Support with paperwork and clearance.
- Free Storage: Two weeks of storage in the USA before shipping.
- Insurance Options: Coverage for loss or damage.
Key Strengths and Reputation
The MoveCube® is a cost-effective, secure solution, and their 24/7 multilingual support earns high marks. Online tracking and transparent pricing add trust, though customers must arrange container disposal in India.
Ideal For
- Students or individuals with small to medium loads.
- Those needing affordable, secure options.
- Expats requiring short-term storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique MoveCube® for smaller shipments.
- Free two-week storage.
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees.
Cons:
- Container disposal responsibility falls on customers.
- Less suited for large household moves.
5. SDC International Shipping: Tailored for Specialty Items
Background
SDC International Shipping focuses on customized relocation services, excelling in delicate items like pianos and artwork. They serve major Indian cities, including Kolkata and Jaipur.
Services Offered
SDC provides:
- Exclusive Container Service: Dedicated containers for large moves.
- Air Freight: Fast delivery for urgent goods.
- Specialty Shipping: Custom crating for fragile or high-value items.
- Pet Relocation: Safe pet transport with regulatory compliance.
- Customs Clearance: Streamlined documentation.
Key Strengths and Reputation
SDC’s attention to detail shines with specialty items. Their marine insurance and door-to-door services ensure reliability, though costs may be higher than LCL options.
Ideal For
- Families with fragile or high-value items.
- Pet owners needing specialized services.
- Businesses requiring secure cargo transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Expertise in specialty item shipping.
- Reliable pet relocation and customs support.
- Comprehensive insurance options.
Cons:
- Higher costs for exclusive containers.
- Less emphasis on groupage services.
What to Consider When Moving Goods from India to the USA
Selecting a shipping company involves understanding key factors to ensure a smooth move. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Customs Clearance
Customs can be complex. In the USA, you’ll need Form 3299 for household goods and a detailed inventory. In India, expect 100% inspections for most shipments, though a clear packing list helps. Companies like Universal Relocations and UniRelo streamline this process. Prohibited items include certain electronics (38.5% duty in India), plants, alcohol, and hazardous materials—always verify restrictions.
Shipping Times
Transit times depend on the method:
- Ocean Freight: 30–45 days for Full Container Load (FCL), up to 90–120 days for Less than Container Load (LCL) due to consolidation.
- Air Freight: 5–10 days, ideal for urgent items but pricier.
- Port congestion or customs delays can extend timelines, so plan early and track progress.
Container Types
Choose based on shipment size:
- 20-Foot Container: Fits a 3-bedroom house (33 cubic meters).
- 40-Foot Container: For larger homes or commercial goods (67 cubic meters).
- High Cube Container: Extra height for added volume.
- LCL/Groupage: Shares space for smaller, budget-friendly loads.
- Your shipping provider can recommend the best option.
Insurance
Protect your goods with insurance. Universal Relocations and UniRelo offer full replacement value coverage, while Seven Seas Worldwide provides comprehensive policies. Insure high-value or fragile items separately for added security.
Cost Factors
Shipping costs depend on:
- Volume and Weight: Larger or heavier loads cost more.
- Container Type: FCL ($3,000–$10,000) vs. LCL ($1,500–$3,000).
- Services: Packing, customs, and door-to-door delivery add $500–$2,000.
- Distance: Longer routes increase fees.
- Get an itemized quote to budget accurately.
FAQs About Moving Goods from India to the USA
How long does it take to ship from India to the USA?
Ocean freight takes 30–45 days for FCL and up to 90–120 days for LCL, depending on consolidation and customs. Air freight averages 5–10 days. Final delivery may add a week.
What items are prohibited?
You can’t ship:
- Certain electronics (high duties in India).
- Plants, seeds, or soil (require permits).
- Alcohol, tobacco, or hazardous materials.
- Counterfeit goods.
- Check with your provider and review customs rules.
How are shipping costs calculated?
Costs depend on volume, weight, container type, distance, and services like packing or insurance. A 20-foot container may cost $3,000–$6,000, while LCL ranges from $1,500–$3,000. Request a detailed quote.
Conclusion: Simplify Your International Move
Moving goods from India to the USA is a big step, but the right shipping company can make it effortless. Universal Relocations leads with comprehensive services and groupage options, while UniRelo, Three Movers, Seven Seas Worldwide, and SDC International Shipping offer tailored solutions for various needs. Consider customs, transit times, and insurance to choose the best fit.