International Moving Services to Germany
Planning a move to Germany from the United States? Schumacher Cargo Logistics provides door-to-door international moving services to Germany, including household goods shipping, container services, vehicle transport, customs documentation, and final delivery.
Germany is one of our busiest European destinations. Each year, we coordinate thousands of international relocations for families, professionals, military personnel, and retirees moving overseas.
Get a Custom Germany Moving Quote
Quick Guide: Moving to Germany from the US
Moving to Germany typically involves:
- Securing the appropriate visa or residence permit
- Scheduling international household goods shipping
- Preparing customs documentation
- Allowing 6–8 weeks for door-to-door delivery
- Registering locally after arrival in Germany
Our team manages the international logistics, container shipping, documentation, and customs clearance so your relocation stays organized and on schedule.
On This Page
- How to Move to Germany from the US
- Our German Relocation Services
- Shipping Options (Shared vs. Sole Container)
- Visa Requirements
- Residence Permits Explained
- Cost Factors
- Shipping Timeline
- Major Destinations in Germany
- Importing Household Goods
- Why Expats Move to Germany
- FAQs
How to Move to Germany from the US
There are many opportunities for Americans moving to Germany from the US. This has led to a boom in American expats in the country. With so many people considering coming here, we compiled a guide on how we help people relocate to Germany. When moving to Germany, start with all the details specific to your shipment.
An international move to Germany begins with understanding your shipment details, including:
- Volume of household goods
- Origin location in the United States
- Final destination in Germany
- Desired timeline
Once we evaluate these factors, we create a customized door-to-door relocation plan that includes packing, shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery.
Our German Overseas Relocation Services
When moving to Germany with Schumacher Cargo Logistics, we coordinate every stage of the process.
Our Germany Moving Services Include:
- Door-to-door international moving
- Professional packing and wrapping
- Pickup from anywhere in the United States
- Secure warehouse storage options
- Ocean freight container shipping
- Customs documentation preparation
- Customs clearance coordination
- Final delivery in Germany
- Vehicle shipping to Germany
Our experience moving customers to Germany ensures that documentation, scheduling, and international logistics are handled properly from start to finish.
Get a Custom Germany Moving Quote
Ways to Ship Your Household Goods to Germany
We offer two primary international container shipping options:
Shared Container (Consolidated Shipping)
With shared container service, you only pay for the volume you ship. This option is ideal for smaller households or apartment relocations.
- Best for: One-bedroom or smaller shipments
- Cost structure: Pay per cubic footage
- Shipping frequency: Multiple monthly consolidations to Germany
Sole Use Container (Exclusive 20ft or 40ft)
A dedicated container is ideal if you are relocating a larger household or working within a strict timeline.
- Best for: Larger homes or time-sensitive moves
- Cost structure: Flat rate container
- Shipping frequency: Immediate departure scheduling
Shared vs. Sole Container Comparison
| Feature | Shared Container | Sole Use Container |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Structure | Pay per volume | Flat rate |
| Best For | Smaller shipments | Larger households |
| Departure Timing | Consolidated schedule | Immediate scheduling |
| Control Over Timing | Moderate | High |
We also provide vehicle shipping to Germany, allowing you to transport your car along with your household goods.
Get a Quote Based on Your Shipment Size
Do I Need a Visa to Move to Germany?
Yes. U.S. citizens planning to stay in Germany long-term must obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit.
Visa types depend on your purpose of stay, such as:
- Employment
- University study
- Family reunification
- Self-employment
- Skilled professional relocation
Visa applications are submitted through the German embassy or consulate in the United States. Processing times vary, so early application is strongly recommended.
Types of Residence Permits in Germany
Germany offers several residence permit categories:
Student Residence Permit
For non-EU citizens attending a German university.
Employment Visa (Work Permit)
For individuals working for a German employer.
Family Reunion Visa
For family members joining someone already residing in Germany.
Freelancer / Self-Employment Visa
For independent professionals and entrepreneurs.
EU Blue Card
For highly skilled professionals meeting income and qualification requirements.
Permanent Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis)
For individuals who have lived in Germany for several years and meet integration requirements.
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the permit type.
How Much Does Moving to Germany Cost?
The cost of moving to Germany depends on:
- Volume of goods
- Origin city in the United States
- Final destination in Germany
- Container type selected
- Additional services (storage, vehicle shipping, packing)
Because every move is unique, we provide customized quotes based on your specific shipment details.
To receive a personalized estimate, complete our online quote request form.
How Long Does Moving to Germany Take?
International moves to Germany generally take:
- East Coast to Germany: Approximately 3 weeks at sea
- West Coast to Germany: Approximately 30 days at sea
- Door-to-Door Total Timeline: 6–8 weeks on average
Transit times vary depending on port schedules, customs clearance, and final destination. These times are general guidelines and should not be taken as estimates for your specific move.
Major Destinations in Germany
We provide door-to-door delivery throughout Germany, including:
- Berlin
- Frankfurt
- Munich
- Stuttgart
- Cologne
- Bremen
- Dortmund
- Hanover
- Kaiserslautern
If your destination is outside a major metropolitan area, our local German partners coordinate final delivery to smaller towns and rural locations.
Importing Household Goods into Germany
Most individuals relocating personal household goods to Germany may qualify for duty-free importation if customs requirements are met.
Required documentation typically includes:
- Passport copy
- Visa or residence permit (if applicable)
- Detailed packing inventory
- Proof of German residence
Our team assists with customs documentation to ensure compliance and minimize delays.
Why Expats Move to Germany
Germany remains a top relocation destination for Americans due to:
Strong Economy
Europe’s largest economy with opportunities in engineering, technology, science, and manufacturing.
High Quality of Life
Access to public healthcare, education, and strong worker protections.
Efficient Public Transportation
Extensive rail and public transit systems connecting cities and regions.
Central European Location
Easy travel access to neighboring European countries.
Cultural Diversity
Large international and expat communities throughout major cities.
Ready to start planning? Request a custom quote for your move to Germany.
Moving to Germany FAQs
How far in advance should I schedule my move?
We recommend booking 4–6 weeks in advance to allow time for logistics planning and container scheduling.
Can you handle customs clearance in Germany?
Yes. We prepare documentation and coordinate customs clearance with our German partners.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes. Shipment tracking and updates are provided throughout the international transit process.
Are there items that cannot be shipped?
Certain items such as hazardous materials, firearms, perishables, and restricted agricultural goods cannot be imported. We provide guidance before packing begins.
What happens when my shipment arrives?
After customs clearance, our local partners coordinate final delivery to your residence in Germany.
Start Your Move to Germany
Schumacher Cargo Logistics provides international moving services from the United States to Germany with coordinated door-to-door shipping, container options, customs assistance, and vehicle transport.
Request your personalized moving quote today or speak with one of our international relocation specialists:
Toll Free: 1-800-599-0190
USA:562-408-6677
More Germany Moving Info
SCL Ratings for Germany Moves
SCL Ratings for Germany Moves
