Part of our Moving Abroad from U.S. Cities guide · Moving abroad from Washington
International Movers in Seattle (2026 Guide)
How to move overseas from Seattle, Washington: departure ports, local tips, popular destinations and licensed movers.
Short answer
International moves from Seattle usually ship by sea container through the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma (Northwest Seaport Alliance), with air freight through Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) for urgent items. Choose an FMC-licensed mover, book a survey so every quote uses the same volume, and confirm which destination charges are included.
Moving abroad from Seattle: local tips
- Tech relocations often include employer-paid packages; ask your HR team what is covered.
- Rain means packers should wrap furniture fully for the walk to the truck.
- Pacific lanes to Australia and New Zealand are direct; Europe sailings are long.
Departure ports and airports
| Sea freight | The Ports of Seattle and Tacoma (Northwest Seaport Alliance) |
|---|---|
| Air freight | Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) |
Popular destinations from Seattle
- Moving to UK: HMRC Transfer of Residence relief (GOV.UK)
- Moving to Germany: German customs (Zoll): staying in Germany / transferring residence
- Moving to Australia: Australian Border Force: unaccompanied personal effects
- Moving to New Zealand: New Zealand Customs: household effects
Licensed international movers
Compare the licensed movers we work with — Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations, My International Movers — on our 2026 rankings. The full comparison also includes other companies.
Other U.S. cities
Los Angeles · New York · San Francisco Bay Area · Chicago · Miami · Houston · Boston
Frequently asked questions
How do I move overseas from Seattle?
Get survey-based quotes from at least two FMC-licensed movers, choose sea or air freight, prepare customs documents for your destination, and book pickup two to three months ahead.
Which port do international moves from Seattle use?
Most household shipments use the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma (Northwest Seaport Alliance).
How much does it cost to move abroad from Seattle?
It depends on volume, destination and shipping method. See our cost guide for real signed prices and the cost drivers.
Which international movers serve Seattle?
Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers — the four licensed movers we work with — handle international moves from major U.S. metros. Our 2026 comparison also includes other companies. Request free quotes from the four we work with with one form.
Get free quotes from licensed movers
One short form for International Moving Company. Pick items from the inventory list or upload a quick video walkthrough. Your request is shared with Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers so you can compare their quotes. Free, no obligation.