Relocating to another country is a major life decision, and for many Nigerians in 2025, moving to the UK, USA, or Canada means bringing along personal belongings, from clothing and electronics to household items and family heirlooms.
International relocation shipping, however, can be overwhelming without the right partner. From packaging and documentation to customs clearance and delivery, every step matters.
That’s why at Ocean and Air Logistics, we make the process seamless, secure, and stress-free. In this blog post, we share essential tips for shipping personal effects abroad and explain how Ocean and Air supports your relocation every step of the way.
1. Start Planning Early
Relocation requires thoughtful preparation. Begin your shipping process at least 4–6 weeks in advance to allow for:
- Proper documentation
- Packing and inventory
- Freight booking and customs clearance
Ocean and Air Logistics helps with a customized relocation timeline to keep you on track.
2. Choose What to Ship (and What Not To)
Shipping costs depend on volume and weight. Be selective:
- Ship essential household items, sentimental possessions, and valuables
- Avoid bulky furniture unless necessary
- Sell, donate, or store what you don’t need immediately
Our team offers free consultations to help you make smart choices.
3. Use Proper Packing Materials
To avoid damage during long-distance transport:
- Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and foam padding
- Label boxes clearly and keep a detailed inventory
- For fragile items, consider custom crating
Ocean and Air Logistics offers professional packing services to ensure your belongings arrive intact.
4. Understand Country-Specific Customs Regulations
Every destination has rules for what can and cannot be imported.
We help you navigate:
- UK: Tax exemptions for used personal items
- USA: CBP requirements for household effects
- Canada: Proof of residency or immigration status
Our experts handle documentation and declarations to avoid clearance delays.
5. Select the Right Shipping Method
You can ship personal belongings by:
Sea Freight
- Ideal for bulkier loads
- More affordable, longer delivery time (3–6 weeks)
Air Freight
- Best for urgent or minimal items
- Higher cost, faster delivery (3–7 days)
Ocean and Air Logistics helps you choose based on your budget, timeline, and quantity.
6. Insure Your Belongings
Relocation is an investment, protect it with comprehensive insurance.
We offer:
- Full-value protection
- Coverage for loss, theft, or damage
- Claim support in case of incidents
This gives you peace of mind from pickup to delivery.
7. Prepare Your Destination Residence
Make sure your new location is ready to receive your shipment:
- Confirm access (stairs, elevators, driveway space)
- Share delivery dates with your landlord or building management
- Provide accurate contact details
Our delivery teams coordinate logistics on both ends.
8. Keep Important Documents with You
While shipping your belongings, keep personal documents in your carry-on:
- Passport and visa
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of shipping inventory
- Residence or job offer letters
This ensures smooth communication and customs verification if needed.
9. Ask About Temporary Storage
Not moving into your new home right away?
- Ocean and Air Logistics offers short – and long-term warehousing in Nigeria, the UK, and the US
- Your belongings can be stored safely until you’re ready
This is ideal for students, professionals, or families awaiting final accommodation.
10. Partner with a Reliable Logistics Provider
Relocation doesn’t have to be complicated. Ocean and Air Logistics provides:
- Door-to-door service
- Real-time tracking
- 24/7 support
- Customs assistance
- Affordable packages for individuals, students, and families
We treat your personal belongings with the care they deserve.
Move Abroad with Confidence
Whether you’re starting a new job, joining family, or studying abroad, Ocean and Air Logistics ensures your relocation is smooth, affordable, and secure.
From Lagos to London or Abuja to Atlanta, we take the stress out of international shipping so you can focus on settling in.
Ready to ship your personal belongings abroad? Visit www.oandalogistics.com to request a relocation quote today.
