Moving to USA: The Complete 2025 Relocation Guide

January 18, 2026

Relocating to the United States is a major life change — whether your move is motivated by career opportunities, education, family reunification, or a fresh start. The U.S. offers endless possibilities, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of lifestyles.

 

At A1 Relocations, we specialize in international moving to the USA, providing complete support from export packing to shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery at your new home. Our goal is to ensure your relocation to the United States is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

 

Moving to USA with A1 Relocations

 

🌎 Why Consider Moving to the USA?

 

The United States continues to attract people from all over the world thanks to its:

 

  • Dynamic job market and strong economy
  • World-renowned universities and high-quality education
  • Excellent healthcare facilities
  • Diversity of lifestyles — from vibrant metropolitan cities to quiet suburbs and peaceful rural communities
  • Reliable transportation networks and public services

 

With A1 Relocations’ global experience, we guide you through every step of your international move to the USA, from packing at origin to unloading at your new American residence.

 

 

🏘️ Life in the USA: What to Expect

 

Housing & Accommodation

 

The cost of renting or buying a home in the USA varies significantly depending on the region:

 

  • Major cities (New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles) are at the higher end.
  • Suburban areas offer more space at a moderate price.
  • Rural regions are typically more affordable.

 

Utilities such as electricity, water, heating/air-conditioning, internet, and waste management are generally moderate but vary by state and home size.

 

Housing is usually the largest portion of monthly expenses, especially for new arrivals.


Daily Life, Essentials & Lifestyle

 

The cost of living in the United States depends heavily on individual habits:

 

    • Groceries, dining, entertainment, and personal services vary widely by location.
    • Public transportation is available in some cities, but many areas require a personal vehicle.
    • Internet, mobile plans, insurance, and healthcare services are essential parts of daily life.

 

 

💵 Estimated Monthly Cost of Living (Single Adult, Mid-Range U.S. City)

 

Expense TypeTypical Range (USD)
Rent (1-bedroom, mid-range area)USD 1,050 – 2,000+
Utilities (electricity, water, AC/heating, internet)USD 150 – 300
Food & groceriesUSD 250 – 750
Transport (public or moderate car use)USD 100 – 300
Internet / mobile planUSD 50 – 100
Miscellaneous (healthcare, leisure, personal services)varies

Estimated total (single adult): USD 2,500 – 4,000+ per month, depending on location and lifestyle. Families or those heading to major cities should expect higher budgets.

 

📦 Shipping Household Goods to the USA

 

A1 Relocations manages the entire logistics chain — packing, export formalities, sea/air freight, customs procedures, and home delivery. Here is what you need to know when importing personal effects into the United States.

 

 

📝 Required Documentation for U.S. Customs Clearance

 

To ensure smooth entry, you will need:

 

  • Passport copies for all relocating members
  • Valid visa, permanent resident card, or I-94 admission record (non-U.S. citizens)
  • CBP Form 7501 (Customs Entry Summary)
  • Customs Declaration (CF-6059B)
  • Original Bill of Lading (OBL) or Air Waybill (AWB) — Provided by A1 Relocations
  • Detailed packing inventory in English
  • Importer Security Filing (ISF) — mandatory for sea shipments
  • Food questionnaire (if applicable)
  • Additional permits for regulated items (e.g., alcohol, certain food products)

 

Diplomats (A-1 visa holders) must also supply DS-1504 and other embassy documentation.

 

 

✅ Key Regulations for Importing Goods into the USA

 

To qualify for duty-free entry:

 

  • All household goods must be used for at least 12 months prior to shipment.
  • Each item must be clearly described — avoid vague terms such as “PBO” or “miscellaneous.”
  • The owner must have long-term residency status or the appropriate visa category.
  • The ISF (Importer Security Filing) must be submitted before container loading to avoid penalties.

 

U.S. Customs (CBP) may inspect shipments at their discretion. Inspection fees vary depending on the type of exam and port of entry.

 

A1 Relocations ensures complete compliance, proper documentation, and timely coordination to prevent delays or additional charges.

 

 

🧳 A1 Relocations — Moving Services to the USA

 

When you choose A1 Relocations for your international move to the United States, you benefit from:

 

  • Professional export packing designed for overseas transport
  • Door-to-door relocation services
  • Sea freight or air freight solutions based on your volume, timing, and budget
  • Expert customs clearance and documentation support
  • Secure handling of all household goods and personal effects
  • Delivery, unloading, and placement in your new home anywhere in the USA

 

 

📋 Before You Move: Key Tips

 

  • Research cost of living based on your chosen city.
  • Prepare all import documents early to avoid customs delays.
  • Use a clear, detailed packing list — every item must be identified.
  • Plan ahead for ISF filing and shipping timelines.
  • Coordinate your relocation schedule with your visa status and arrival plans.

 

A1 Relocations takes care of the logistics, so you can focus on settling into your new life in the United States.

 

 

🌐 Start Your Move to the USA with Confidence

 

Whether you’re relocating to New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, Houston, or any other U.S. destination, A1 Relocations ensures reliable, efficient, and secure international moving services to the USA.

 

Contact us today for a personalized quotation and a tailored relocation plan.

 

A1 Relocations — Your trusted partner for moving to the USA.