Planning on Relocating from Israel to USA? This guide covers everything you need to know about moving, shipping personal belongings, visas, housing, and more. Get the best insights to make your relocation to the United States smooth and stress-free.
What Type of Shipping Is Best for Moving to the U.S.?
When relocating, you’ll need to choose between air freight, sea freight, or a combination of both. Each option suits different needs and timelines.
Why Choose Sea Freight?
Sea freight is ideal for large shipments—especially for full household moves.
Large volume capacity – perfect for an entire apartment or house
Lower cost per kilogram – the more you ship, the better the value
Choice between Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL)
Average delivery time: 5–8 weeks
Best for furniture, appliances, multiple boxes, and non-urgent items
Why Choose Air Freight?
Air freight is the preferred choice for urgent or high-value items, and for those who need fast delivery.
Extremely fast – arrival within a few days
Great for important items: electronics, personal gear, seasonal clothing, documents
Ideal for small to medium-sized shipments
Less cost-effective for large household contents
Can be combined – ship some items by air, others by sea
Shipping to the U.S. Isn’t Just for Relocation – What Else Is Commonly Sent?
Besides household relocations, many Israelis send other types of shipments to the U.S., including:
Important documents – contracts, certificates, medical or legal paperwork
Commercial samples and goods – for businesses, importers, and startups
Medical, technological, or industrial equipment – for companies or institutions
Private packages – gifts, dry food, care packages for friends or family
Each type of shipment requires tailored handling in terms of packaging, insurance, customs compliance, and service selection.
Door-to-Door Shipping – Convenience Without the Hassle
Advanced international shipping services now let you send packages directly from your home or business in Israel to any address in the U.S.
Included in the service:
Pickup from your home or office in Israel
Handling of customs documents and import declarations
Sea or air freight – based on your choice
Delivery to any U.S. location – home, office, or logistics center
This service saves time, effort, and costly mistakes—especially useful for those relocating or shipping important goods.
What Items Are Prohibited in U.S. Shipments?
The U.S. has strict customs regulations. It’s important to know them in advance:
Prohibited items: flammable materials, ammunition, hazardous liquids, unprotected lithium batteries
Restrictions on food and medicine – only allowed with prior approval and proper declaration
Used high-value items – may be treated as commercial and require special entry permits
Tip: Review the restricted items list with your shipping company to avoid delays or fines.
How Much Does Shipping from Israel to the U.S. Cost?
The cost depends on several key factors:
Total weight and volume of your shipment
Shipping method – air, sea, or a combination
Exact destination in the U.S. (East Coast is generally more affordable than West Coast)
Level of service – door-to-door vs. depot pickup
💡 tip: Use ShippingToGo’s online shipping calculator to get quotes from multiple providers instantly—compare and choose the best deal.
What’s the Difference Between Private and Commercial Shipments?
| Category | Private Shipment | Commercial Shipment |
|---|---|---|
| Sender | Individual (e.g., during relocation) | Business, importer, or exporter |
| Contents | Personal belongings, clothes, documents | Goods, professional equipment, samples |
| Customs Process | Usually simpler | Requires declarations, licenses, tracking |
| Temporary Storage | Rarely needed | Often needed for bulk or large shipments |
| Pricing | Based on weight/volume | Depends on scope, frequency, added services |
How to Prepare for a Successful Shipment
Planning ahead can save you time and money. Here's what to do:
Sort your items – only ship what you really need
Use high-quality packaging – with clear labels and accurate descriptions
Document everything – photograph your items for insurance purposes
Provide accurate information – weight, destination, and content details
Choose appropriate insurance – especially for valuable or sensitive items
Shipping Your Household: A Complete Guide to Moving Your Belongings
Moving your entire household across the ocean takes careful planning. Here's what you need to know:
Timing Your Move
Plan ahead: start organizing your shipment at least two months before your move
Coordinate arrival: per U.S. customs rules, you must be in the country before your goods arrive to avoid major storage fees
Door-to-Door Delivery
Our shipping service offers full door-to-door delivery, simplifying the entire move from your home in Israel to your new address in the U.S.
Protecting Your Belongings
Choose shipment insurance to safeguard your belongings during transit. Our team can help you select the right coverage for your items.
Expert Support for Your Move
International shipping—especially from Israel to the U.S.—can be complex. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way and ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition.
Budget-Friendly Moving Strategies
Personal items: carry essential documents, small electronics, and valuables with you on the flight
Used goods: to potentially avoid customs duties, prioritize air shipping only for essential items
Labeling and Documenting Your Shipment
Once your shipment is booked, you’ll receive labels and an Air Waybill (AWB):
Attach labels to every box, making sure all packages are numbered and accounted for
The label acts as a “passport” for your package and lists all enclosed items
Important: After labeling, do not add or remove items from the package
Visa & Immigration Options for Moving to the USA
Work Visas for Israeli Professionals
Common visas for relocating to the USA include:
- H-1B Visa: For highly skilled workers.
- O-1 Visa: For individuals with exceptional abilities.
For official visa details, visit the U.S. Department of State.
Family-Sponsored Immigration
If you have family in the U.S., you may qualify for a family-based visa.
Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Program)
The Green Card Lottery offers a chance to gain permanent residency.
Best Cities for Israeli Expats
- New York: The largest Jewish-Israeli community in the U.S.
- Los Angeles: A major center for Israeli business and culture.
- Miami: Warm climate and a strong Jewish presence.
Finding Housing in the USA
Before moving, explore housing options, rent vs. buying, and living costs. Browse home listings on Zillow.
Healthcare for Newcomers
Unlike Israel’s universal system, U.S. healthcare is private. Common options include:
- Employer-Sponsored Insurance: Provided by many companies.
- Health Insurance Marketplace: Affordable Care Act plans.
Shipping Personal Belongings When Moving to the USA
Best Shipping Methods
- Sea Freight: Budget-friendly but takes several weeks.
- Air Freight: Faster but more expensive.
Customs & Regulations
- Check U.S. Customs and Border Protection for restricted items.
- Make a detailed list of shipped belongings.
Cost-Saving Tips for Relocating to the USA
- Ship only essential personal belongings.
- Compare international moving companies for the best rates.
Final Steps Before Your Move
- Close all Israeli bank accounts before leaving.
- Ensure all official documents are up to date.
Need Help with Relocating from Israel to the USA?
Our relocation specialists can assist you every step of the way, from moving logistics to settling in your new home.
Further Reading & Resources
- – International Relocation Shipping Guide
- – Relocating from Israel to Germany: Your Comprehensive Guide
- U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services
Want to hear more or just consult? Message us and we will get back to you right away!
