Rocket Box Movers: Moving Service in the EU vs USA: What to Expect

01.11.2025

Compare EU vs US moving service: pricing, rules, insurance, and tips to choose a moving company. Get a clear quote from Rocket Box Movers today.

Relocating across countries or states can feel complex, but the right moving company turns chaos into a clear plan. As an international team at Rocket Box Movers, we’ve delivered thousands of moves in the European Union and the United States. Below we compare how a moving service works on both sides of the Atlantic, so you can budget accurately, set the right expectations, and choose movers that fit your timeline and standards.

EU vs USA at a Glance

  • Pricing model:
    • EU: more flat‑rate or cubic‑meter pricing, mileage included, VAT applies.
    • USA: hourly plus travel time for local jobs; weight/distance for interstate.
  • Regulation:
    • EU: national transport licenses; cross‑border under EU cabotage rules.
    • USA: DOT and FMCSA for interstate carriers; state PUC rules for local.
  • Liability and insurance:
    • EU: Goods‑in‑Transit insurance more common; declared value by cubic meter.
    • USA: Released Value at $0.60/lb by default; Full Value Protection optional.
  • Access and permits:
    • EU: frequent city center permits, narrow streets, low‑emission zones.
    • USA: HOA/COI requirements, elevator reservations, long carries, parking permits.
  • Culture and service scope:
    • EU: packing/unpacking often bundled; assembly included more often.
    • USA: wider a‑la‑carte menu; tipping customary; robust specialty services.

Regulation and Compliance

EU: Licensing, Data, and Cross‑Border Moves

In the EU, a professional moving company must hold national and EU transport authorizations, keep tachograph logs, and comply with cabotage rules. City driving may require low‑emission permits (e.g., LEZ in major capitals). Data security matters too—GDPR governs the collection of personal information used for inventories, quotes, and contracts. For multi‑country moves, movers coordinate customs for non‑EU shipments and confirm parking permissions for loading zones in historic centers.

USA: DOT Numbers, FMCSA Rules, State Oversight

In the US, interstate carriers require DOT and MC numbers and must publish a tariff per FMCSA. Local moves are usually regulated at the state level (e.g., Public Utilities Commission). A compliant moving service uses written estimates, inventories, and Bill of Lading, and discloses valuation options clearly. Reliable movers also provide Certificates of Insurance for buildings and follow best practices for stairs, elevators, and long carries.

Pricing, Quotes, and What Drives Costs

  • EU approach:
    • Pre‑move survey (virtual or on‑site), inventory measured in cubic meters.
    • Flat‑rate proposals common, VAT included; ferry/bridge fees itemized.
    • Access complexity (old town streets, no‑lift buildings) affects crew size and timing.
  • USA approach:
    • Local: hourly rate with travel time and materials; minimum hours common.
    • Interstate: weight, distance, and services (packing/crating) set the price.
    • Clear estimate types: binding, non‑binding, or not‑to‑exceed.

Pro tip: Whichever region you move in, ask for an itemized quote and a written scope detailing crew size, materials, packing level, and arrival windows. At Rocket Box Movers, our moving service provides digital estimates with photos or a quick video survey to prevent surprise add‑ons.

Scope of Services and Add‑Ons

  • Standard inclusions: Furniture protection (blankets/shrink wrap), disassembly/reassembly of basic items, loading/unloading, placement by room.
  • Popular add‑ons: Full packing or partial packing, custom crating (art, glass), storage, debris haul‑away, specialty handling (pianos, safes, gym machines), white‑glove setup.
  • EU specifics: More integrated packing and assembly in many quotes; road access planning is essential.
  • USA specifics: Strong menu of specialty services; tipping customary; clear ladder policies and long‑carry thresholds.

Logistics and Scheduling

  • EU considerations: Narrow lanes, timed delivery windows, weekend restrictions, and access permits shape the plan. Elevators may be small, so stair carries are frequent.
  • USA considerations: HOA approvals, loading dock reservations, and larger suburban access are common. Long distances demand predictable ETAs and multi‑day routes.

Reliable movers will pre‑book elevators, secure parking permits, and send real‑time updates. Rocket Box Movers uses route optimization and foreman‑led crews to keep your day on track.

Protection, Liability, and Claims

  • EU: Goods‑in‑Transit insurance with declared value; damage claims processed under local consumer laws. Photographic inventory is standard.
  • USA: Released Value coverage at $0.60 per pound per article by default; Full Value Protection available. FMCSA outlines the claims process and timelines.

Ask your moving company for coverage options in writing and clarify exclusions (pre‑existing damage, owner‑packed boxes, high‑value items).

How Rocket Box Movers Supports EU and US Relocations

  • One coordinator, one plan: A dedicated move manager aligns crews, vehicles, and timelines across regions.
  • Transparent quotes: Itemized pricing tailored to the EU (VAT included) or the US (local vs interstate).
  • Professional movers: Trained crews with foreman oversight, uniformed teams, and clean, fully stocked trucks.
  • Storage and flexibility: Short‑ and long‑term storage near origin or destination, with inventory tracking and sealed vaults.
  • E‑E‑A‑T in action: Documented experience, verified reviews, compliance credentials, and clear policies you can audit.

Checklist: Choosing the Right Moving Company

  • Ask for licensing numbers (EU national/EU permit; US DOT/MC).
  • Request a written, itemized estimate and scope.
  • Confirm packing level, materials, and specialty handling.
  • Verify valuation/insurance and COI requirements.
  • Check elevator/parking permits and access constraints.
  • Read recent reviews specific to your route and building type.
  • Ensure movers offer post‑move support and a clear claims process.

Conclusion: Ready for a Smoother Move?

Whether your next destination is in Paris or Portland, our moving service makes it simple. Get a precise quote, a reliable timeline, and professional movers who do the heavy lifting—literally and figuratively. Contact Rocket Box Movers today to schedule your virtual survey and lock your preferred date.