Top 7 Things Finnish Movers Are Surprised by When Moving to the USA
Moving to the United States from Finland is a big step — one that brings excitement, logistics, and often more than a few unexpected details.
At Travelcargo, one of Finland’s leading international moving companies, we’ve helped clients relocate across the Atlantic for over 20 years, and we’ve seen what often catches people off guard
Here are the seven most common surprises our Finnish clients encounter when moving to the USA — based on real-world experience from our team.
Battery Restrictions and “Dangerous Goods”
Many modern devices include rechargeable batteries — and that’s a challenge in international shipping. Items like cordless tools, electric scooters, or even some kitchen appliances may be restricted or classified as dangerous goods under transport regulations.
We also handle fully electric cars, including popular models like Tesla, which require special permits, documentation, and packaging. Most moving companies don’t transport electric vehicles at all — we do.
Tip: Let us know early if your shipment includes battery-powered items or you’re shipping a Tesla or other electric car, so we can prepare the correct documentation and handling procedures.
Weight vs. Volume – How the USA Measures Freight
In Finland and Europe, household goods are typically shipped based on volume (for example, a 20 ft container = ~30 m³). In the United States, especially for domestic delivery, pricing is often based on actual weight instead. This can impact final handling and delivery charges on the US side.
Tip: We factor this into our planning so you won’t be caught by surprise.
Every “Extra” Has a Price – Especially on Arrival
In the USA, extra services such as long carry distances, stair carries, or poor truck access are typically itemized and billed separately. Even things like elevator wait times or limited parking near the building can affect cost and delivery timing.
Tip: We assess access details in advance so you have a full picture of potential costs from the start.
US Customs Rules Are Strict – and Inspections Can Add Cost
Some clients assume that once the shipment leaves Finland, it’s smooth sailing — but US customs can be surprisingly thorough. While hazardous goods restrictions mostly affect the shipping process, customs in the USA can still x-ray or manually inspect containers, especially if the inventory is unclear or prohibited items are included.
This can lead to delays and unexpected inspection fees.
Tip: We help avoid these issues by preparing a clear, compliant inventory and ensuring nothing prohibited is included. While inspections can’t be completely ruled out, many can be avoided with careful planning.
Remote Areas Can Mean Delivery Delays
International shipments usually arrive at major ports, but delivery to smaller towns or rural areas can take longer. This is due to a domestic trucking shortage in the United States, especially in less-populated regions.
Tip: The earlier we know your exact delivery address, the better we can prepare and coordinate with local carriers.
Total Move Cost Involves More Than Just Shipping
Many clients expect the container price to reflect the full cost — but several other services may be involved:
- Packing in Finland
- Export documentation and inventory
- Insurance
- Storage (if needed)
- Local delivery costs based on access
Tip: We always recommend a pre-move survey so we can give you an accurate, fixed quote before anything moves.
Cultural and Practical Differences
Beyond logistics, clients are often surprised by how different everyday life is in the US, including:
- The need for credit history to rent housing or open utility accounts.
- The expectation to tip for nearly all services.
- Significantly higher healthcare and insurance costs
- Larger distances and logistics compared to Finland
Tip: We’ve moved hundreds of clients and are happy to share general relocation tips as well — not just shipping advice.
Read More:
– Moving from Finland to USA
Summary: Be Prepared, and Choose the Right Partner
International moves come with complexity, but with the right team, they don’t have to be overwhelming.
Travelcargo has over 20 years of experience with door-to-door relocations from Finland to the United States — including packing, customs, vehicle transport, and every detail in between.
Recent destinations we’ve handled in the USA include
New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Seattle, Boston, Houston, Atlanta, Chicago, Washington DC, New Jersey, San Diego, West Hollywood — and even more remote locations like Ketchum, Idaho.
