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New York is the most common US destination for UK nationals relocating to America, and the most logistically straightforward in terms of shipping, given the direct Atlantic crossing from UK ports. The move is fast relative to other international removals: sea freight from the UK to New York typically arrives in four to six weeks. US customs, however, has its own specific requirements that need to be handled correctly before your shipment leaves the UK.
Whether you’re moving from the UK to New York for work, family, or a fresh start, Gerson is here to guide you every step of the way. Our expert team understands the challenges of international relocation and handles every detail with care and precision. From customs clearance to visa and immigration support, we simplify the process to make your move as smooth as possible.
Leave the planning and logistics to us, so you can focus on the excitement of beginning your new chapter in the United States. With Gerson, you gain more than a moving service, you gain a trusted partner who brings expertise and peace of mind.
New York is served through the Port of New York and New Jersey, the largest port on the US East Coast, with primary container operations at the GCT Bayonne and Maher Terminals in Newark, New Jersey. All household goods shipments from the UK to New York clear customs here before delivery to your address.
Typical transit time: 4–6 weeks door to door. This includes packing and collection at your UK property, UK port handling, the Atlantic sea leg (typically 10–14 days), port handling in New Jersey, US customs clearance, and final delivery to your New York address.
Container options:
Your move manager provides a survey-based quote based on your actual volume and UK-to-New York address distance.
US customs for personal effects involves two key requirements that must be handled before your shipment leaves the UK:
1. Importer Security Filing (ISF)
The ISF, sometimes called “10+2”, must be filed with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 24 hours before your shipment is loaded onto the vessel in the UK. This is a legal requirement for all ocean freight entering the United States. Your removal company files the ISF on your behalf as part of the documentation process, but it requires accurate information about your shipment contents, so your packing list needs to be finalised before loading.
2. CBP Form 3299, Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles
This is the US customs declaration for personal and household effects. Completing it correctly is what qualifies your belongings for duty-free entry. To qualify:
New items purchased in the UK specifically for the move, vehicles, and items intended for resale require separate treatment. Your move manager will advise on these before your collection date.
From the point your survey is confirmed, your dedicated move manager coordinates:
Arranging short-term storage in New York if your accommodation isn’t yet ready
Your immigration status needs to be resolved before your removal date. The most common routes for UK nationals relocating to New York include:
Visa processing times vary significantly by category. H-1B applications are tied to the annual lottery (typically filed in April for an October 1 start date). If your visa is employer-sponsored, your move date will be set by your employer’s timeline, your move manager will coordinate your removal around that date.
Cost of living: New York is among the most expensive cities in the world. Manhattan rents reflect that, a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood typically costs $3,000–$5,000+ per month. Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx offer more space for the money while remaining connected to Manhattan by subway.
The five boroughs each have a distinct character. Manhattan suits those working in finance, media, or law who want to be close to the office. Brooklyn is the preferred choice for families and creatives, particularly neighbourhoods like Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, and Cobble Hill. Queens offers some of the most affordable housing in the city and is among the most culturally diverse communities in the world. The Bronx has seen significant investment and offers good transport connections to Midtown at a lower cost than most other boroughs. Staten Island has a suburban feel with ferry access to Lower Manhattan.
Healthcare: The US operates on a private insurance model. Comprehensive health insurance is essential and must be arranged before you travel. If you are relocating for work, your employer will typically provide coverage; otherwise, you will need to purchase your own policy.
Tax: UK nationals working in the United States on a visa are subject to US federal tax and New York State tax. The UK and US have a double taxation agreement, but understanding your specific obligations is important, an accountant familiar with expat tax affairs is worth engaging before you arrive.
Climate: New York has four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (averaging 29°C in July); winters are cold, with snow typical between December and March (averaging 1°C in January). The transition from UK weather to New York’s summer humidity and winter cold is a genuine adjustment for most people.
With decades of experience in international relocations, Gerson Moving Services is an international moving company, trusted by individuals, families, and global businesses alike. We offer expert care and cost effective solutions for international moves. We can manage every step of your move to New York, including packing services, shipping, and customs assistance. As experienced new york international movers and york international movers, we have a global network serving destinations around the globe.
Our dedicated move managers ensure transparent communication and total peace of mind from collection to delivery. We are always prepared to provide the best value and peace of mind for your international moving needs, so clients can contact us for personalised support throughout the process.
What our clients say speaks volumes about the standards we maintain on every international move.
“Relocating to New York was a huge milestone for us, and the whole process was handled flawlessly. Yasmin kept informed throughout, and everything arrived safely and on schedule. It made settling into city life far easier than expected.”
“Our move to the USA was managed with real professionalism from start to finish. Communication was clear, timelines were accurate, and everything arrived in perfect condition. It took the stress out of a big international move.”
“Moving to the United States felt like a big undertaking, but the service we received made it straightforward and well organised. The team were responsive, efficient, and handled every detail with care. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
Typically 4–6 weeks door to door. This covers packing and collection in the UK, the Atlantic sea leg (10–14 days), port handling at the Port of New York and New Jersey, US customs clearance, and final delivery. Customs queries can add time, having your documentation accurate and complete before departure is the best way to avoid delays.
The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a legal requirement for all ocean freight entering the United States, it must be submitted to US CBP at least 24 hours before vessel loading. Gerson Moving Services files this on your behalf as part of the documentation process. It requires an accurate, finalised packing list, so this needs to be completed before your collection date.
Yes, provided they qualify under CBP Form 3299, items must have been owned and used for at least 12 months and cannot be intended for sale. New items purchased specifically for the move require separate declaration and may attract duties.
Yes. Gerson Moving Services’ in-country partner covers all five boroughs and the wider New York metropolitan area, including New Jersey and Connecticut.
Short-term storage in New York is a standard option for moves where timing doesn’t align with delivery. Your move manager arranges this as part of the overall coordination.
