Moving to LA from the UK: A Complete Guide

Moving to LA from the UK: A Complete Guide

From the Walk of Fame to the Hollywood sign, Los Angeles is known as the home to the stars. 

But if you’re planning on joining the realms of big names in Tinseltown and moving to LA yourself, there is always a lot to think about.

Before any move there is always much to consider, but moving to LA from the UK brings some unique challenges. 

From moving your belongings to sorting out documentation, here at Clockwork Removals, we’ve created a comprehensive article to guide you through the process. 

What are the shipping methods?

Inevitably, getting your stuff over the Atlantic will be a priority on any moving to Los Angeles checklist. 

There are a variety of shipping options to consider including:

• Air freight – This is the fastest way to get your stuff to the U.S. but it’s also the most expensive. This makes it great for smaller consignments, but if you’re planning a large-scale move to LA then it may not be suitable for you.

• Shared containers – The cost of moving to LA can add up, so using a shared container is a cost-effective and functional solution to get your belongings to the city. It involves sharing a shipping container with others who are moving items to the same location, and you’ll only pay for the part of the container your belongings occupy. However, it may take longer for your stuff to arrive and still may not be sufficient if you are transporting a large amount of items. 

• Sole-use containers – Similar to shared containers, this option will see you hire an entire shipping container for yourself. It’s normally the preferred method for those making a permanent move and want to take all of their belongings with them. You can even bring your car in a container, but be aware that modifications may be required to ensure they comply with U.S. motoring laws. 

All sea freight shipping can take between four to six weeks for items to arrive and you will require certain documentation including: 

• A commercial invoice 
• A bill of lading (BoL)
• A customs bond
• A certificate of origin (CO)
• A completed inventory 

Clockwork Removals will be on hand to assist to make sure you have everything you need. 

What documents do I need when moving to LA from the UK?

If you’re moving to LA from London or any other part of the UK there are several documents you’ll require.

Firstly, if you are moving for work then your employer should issue you with a work visa that grants you permission to live and work in the country. If your work visa has not been completed by the time you need to fly, then you will need an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, commonly known as an ESTA, to be allowed into the country. These are fairly inexpensive and can be completed online. 

However, an ESTA only lasts for 90 days so you will need to make sure your work visa, or student visa, will be granted to you before it expires. While your ESTA will last for two years and allow multiple 90-day visits into the States, if you’re moving to the country permanently then your visa should be your priority. 

Other documents you’ll need include:

• Passport
• Birth certificate 
• Medical documentation 
• Education certificates and degrees
• Insurance policies 
• Shipping documents 

The US take border security extremely seriously so it’s vital that you have everything arranged before you fly to ensure you’re not refused entry into the country. 

What items are prohibited in LA?

There are several items that you will be forbidden from taking into the US that you should be aware of before you leave for LA. 

This includes:

• Absinthe
• Cuban cigars or any Cuban merchandise
• Drugs and drug paraphernalia 
• Meat
• Alcohol-filled candy
• Lottery tickets
• Fireworks 
• Switchblades 

There are also strict rules regarding how much tax-free alcohol or cigarettes you can take into the country. Adults can bring one litre of wine, beer or liquor, and no more than 200 cigarettes per person. Any more than these quantities will be subject to taxes. 

So, if you’re moving to LA from the UK and need any help and support ahead of your American adventure, Clockwork Removals is here to help. We’re part of FIDI Global Alliance and the BAR Overseas Moving Group, meaning we can offer an unrivalled level of service for any international move. We’ll be by your side at every step of the journey and can even create custom inventories and handle the export packing so you can focus on enjoying your big move.

For more information, get in touch with our team today.