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How to Compare International Moving Quotes and Avoid Hidden Charges

By Rahul Pillai, Head of International Relocation, Pikkol · Published 27 September 2026 · Reviewed 27-09-2026

To compare international moving quotes fairly, first make sure every quote is for the same volume (CBM) and the same shipping method. Then check each one line by line for what's included, extra or not stated, especially destination charges, customs, insurance and storage. The cheapest total is often the least complete. Compare the price per CBM and the number of gaps, not just the headline figure.

Compare up to three international moving quotes

Enter what each quote says. For each line, choose Included, Extra (listed but charged separately) or Not stated. Everything stays in your browser.

On a phone, scroll sideways to see Quotes B and C.

Quote detailsQuote AQuote BQuote C

What are the most common hidden charges in international moving quotes?

The most common hidden charges are destination terminal handling charges, customs inspection or quarantine fees, port or warehouse storage when delivery is delayed, long-carry and stairs charges, parking or elevator permits abroad, and extra volume found on packing day. Most sit at the destination end, which is why "door to door" must be defined line by line.

  • Destination terminal handling (DTHC)

    What it isPort or terminal fee for handling your container or LCL cargo

    How to avoid a surpriseAsk whether it's included. It's a common "payable at destination" line

  • Customs inspection / quarantine

    What it isFees when customs or biosecurity officials examine the shipment

    How to avoid a surpriseAsk for the typical amount for your country. Declare accurately and clean items (Australia/NZ)

  • Port / warehouse storage

    What it isDaily charges after the free period if clearance or delivery is delayed

    How to avoid a surpriseAsk how many free days apply, and have documents ready before arrival

  • Extra volume

    What it isCharged when the actual volume exceeds the survey estimate

    How to avoid a surpriseInsist on a proper survey and ask for the per-CBM rate for any variance

  • Access charges

    What it isStairs, long carry, shuttle vehicle, no lift, restricted parking

    How to avoid a surpriseDescribe access at both homes during the survey

  • Permits

    What it isParking or elevator reservations at the destination building

    How to avoid a surpriseAsk who arranges them and who pays

  • Crating

    What it isCustom wooden crates for glass, marble, art

    How to avoid a surpriseList fragile items at the survey so they're priced upfront

  • Surcharges

    What it isFuel, currency or peak-season adjustments on freight

    How to avoid a surpriseAsk whether the freight price is fixed until the sailing date

  • Duties and taxes

    What it isDestination government charges, if your goods don't qualify for relief

    How to avoid a surpriseCheck eligibility for transfer-of-residence relief before packing

  • Insurance

    What it isPremium based on declared value

    How to avoid a surpriseGet the insurer's name, cover type, exclusions and deductible in writing

How do I make international moving quotes comparable?

Quotes are only comparable when they cover the same volume, the same shipping method and the same scope. Ask every mover to survey the same inventory, quote the same method (or quote both LCL and FCL), and mark every line as included, extra or not applicable. Then compare the price per CBM and the number of gaps.

  1. Same volume: if the quoted volumes differ by more than 15%, ask why. One mover may be underestimating to look cheaper.
  2. Same method: an LCL quote and an FCL quote aren't the same service. See sea vs air, LCL vs FCL.
  3. Same scope: both ends, including destination clearance, delivery and unpacking.
  4. Same protection: compare insurance on the same declared value and cover type.
  5. Same terms: payment schedule, cancellation charges and what happens on delay.

What is the difference between a fixed and an estimated moving quote?

A fixed (binding) quote sets the price for the surveyed inventory and only changes if you add items or services. An estimated (non-binding) quote can rise if the actual volume or services differ. Always ask which type you're getting, and the rate that applies to any extra volume.

What should I ask every mover before accepting a quote?

Copy this email and send it to each mover you're considering:

Subject: Clarification on my international moving quote Hello, Before I decide, could you please confirm in writing: 1. The volume (CBM) you calculated, and the itemised inventory. 2. Whether the quote is fixed or estimated, and the rate per CBM for any extra volume. 3. For each item below, whether it is Included, Extra (with amount) or Not applicable: export packing and materials, crating, loading and inland transport, Indian export customs, freight, fuel/peak surcharges, destination terminal handling, destination customs clearance, inspection fees, delivery, unpacking and reassembly, debris removal, stairs/long carry, parking or elevator permits, storage (free days and daily rate), insurance, GST, duties and taxes. 4. The name of your destination partner in [city]. 5. The insurer, the cover type, exclusions and the claim deadline. 6. The payment schedule and the cancellation policy. Thank you.

Frequently asked questions

How do I compare international moving quotes?

Make sure every quote covers the same volume in CBM, the same shipping method and the same door-to-door scope. Then check each line (packing, freight, destination charges, customs, delivery, insurance, storage) for whether it's included, extra or not stated, and compare the price per CBM and the number of gaps rather than the headline total.

What hidden charges should I watch for when moving abroad?

Watch for destination terminal handling charges, customs inspection or quarantine fees, port or warehouse storage after the free period, extra-volume charges, stairs or long-carry fees, parking or elevator permits, crating, freight surcharges, duties and taxes, and insurance quoted separately.

Why is one international moving quote so much cheaper than the others?

Usually because it leaves out destination charges, customs clearance, delivery or insurance, underestimates the volume, or quotes a slower shared container instead of a full one. Check the volume and each line before comparing prices.

Are destination charges included in international moving quotes?

Not always. Some quotes are door to port, or list destination charges as "payable at destination". A true door-to-door quote includes destination handling, customs clearance and delivery. Duties and taxes are usually extra.

Should an international moving quote include GST?

GST applies to the India-side services. Ask whether the quote is inclusive or exclusive of GST, and make sure you receive a GST invoice from the same company that signs your contract.

What if the actual volume is more than the quote?

With an estimated quote, you'll usually pay for the extra volume at an agreed rate per CBM. Ask for that rate in writing before booking, and insist on a proper video or in-home survey to keep the estimate accurate.

How many international moving quotes should I get?

Three survey-based quotes are usually enough to benchmark price and service without adding confusion. Make sure each mover surveys the same inventory.

Get a quote with nothing left unstated

Our international quotes list every line, both ends included, with the destination partner named and insurance options explained.

Get my itemised quote

Related tools and guides

Sources

  • US Federal Maritime Commission, "Hiring a Reputable Mover" and "Moving Dos and Don'ts"
  • FIDI Global Alliance, FAIM quality standard
  • Pikkol quotation practice and customer case experience 27-09-2026
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