Planning a Move Abroad? Here’s What You Need to Know About Packing Services
One of the most common questions people ask before relocating overseas is: Do international movers pack for you?
If you’re preparing for a big move from the UAE, understanding what services movers offer — especially when it comes to packing — can help you plan smarter, save time, and reduce stress.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about packing services provided by international movers, including the benefits, costs, and what to expect when hiring professionals.
Whether you’re moving a studio flat or a five-bedroom villa, knowing your options can make all the difference.
What Do International Movers Actually Do?
International movers are the experts who handle the logistics of transporting your belongings across borders — safely, efficiently, and without a hitch. But their services go beyond just shipping.
Here’s what most reputable movers offer:
- Professional Packing Services
- Transportation via air, sea, or land
- Customs clearance assistance
- Unpacking and setup at your new destination
These services are designed to give you peace of mind while you focus on other aspects of your relocation.
Why Packing Matters in International Moving
Proper packing is one of the most important aspects of any international move. It protects your belongings and ensures everything arrives intact — from fragile glassware to bulky furniture.
Key Benefits of Expert Packing:
- Damage Prevention: Professional materials and techniques reduce the risk of breakage.
- Smoother Logistics: Properly packed items are easier to load, ship, and unload.
- Customs Compliance: Correct packing can help avoid customs delays or fines.
- Cost Efficiency: Investing in packing services upfront can save money on replacements or repairs later.
Want to avoid common pitfalls? Check out our guide on what not to pack when moving abroad.
Do International Movers Pack for You?
The Short Answer: Yes, They Do!
Most international movers offer full and partial packing services depending on your needs and budget.
Types of Packing Services:
| Service Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Packing | Movers handle everything from wrapping to boxing. Ideal for a stress-free move. |
| Partial Packing | You pack some items, and the movers handle the rest — great for personal or delicate items. |
| Custom Packing | Specialised packing for fragile or high-value items (artwork, instruments, heirlooms). |
Whether you want everything professionally packed or just need help with select items, there’s a solution that fits your move.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Packers (Like Mac Pack)
When you choose a reputable mover like Mac Pack, you get more than just muscle and boxes. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Expertise: Trained staff know how to pack efficiently and safely.
- Time-Saving: Focus on your visa, paperwork, or saying goodbye — we’ll handle the packing.
- Less Stress: Let the pros manage the heavy lifting while you stay in control.
- Insurance Coverage: Items packed by professionals are usually insured, offering peace of mind.
- Optimised Space Usage: Efficient packing often reduces the number of boxes and shipping costs.
What to Expect When Movers Pack for You
Here’s How the Packing Process Typically Works:
- Initial Survey: Movers assess what needs to be packed and create a customized plan.
- Material Preparation: Only high-quality packing materials — sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and custom crates — are used.
- Labelling: Every box is tagged clearly for easy identification and unpacking.
- Inventory Checklist: A master list is created for transparency and security.
- Special Handling: Fragile and high-value items are packed with extra care.
Communication Tips:
- Share any special instructions ahead of time.
- Highlight items that need extra care.
- Review the final inventory list before shipment.
What Does Professional Packing Cost?
Packing costs are normally based on the volume of the items you need packing, the number of people needed to pack the volume and the type of material or expertise needed.
Most companies have a simple equation. A rate per CBM of packaging material used, number of crew needed and transportation fee.
More specialised packaging material such as heat treated wood for crating is normally quoted separately.
All items in an international move need to be protected, fully covered – no lose items – and need to be numbered. The numbering of the items being shipped is really important not only because it ensures items are not lost but the total number of packages needs to be declared to the shipping line and is stated on the official Bill of Lading.
What is a Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading is the official document that is issued by the shipping line that is part of the shipping process. An airline ticket is the equivalent when flying. If the number of packages declared does not tally with the number of packages in the container it can lead to problems with both port and custom authorities. If you do not use a professional moving company, like Mac Pack, this can cause you lots of unforeseen challenges when your belongings exit or arrive in a country. As the shipper of the items, you will be responsible for resolving these challenges. Be aware that poor companies may disappear and offer no support or guidance.
The majority of smaller items in an international move need to be boxed. Items are wrapped and protected with paper or bubble wrap and placed in boxes. Paper is used more than plastic as paper offers both protection and is a breathable material.
Larger items such as sofas or beds are protected by using flat sheet cardboard that can be cut to size.
Costs vary based on how much you’re moving and the level of service you choose. Here’s a general estimate:
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Basic Packing Service | 150-250 AED per cubic metre |
| Custom Packing (Fragile Items)
Depends on the size of the item being packed. A TV approx 500/800 AED, a glass table top 600/1200 AED or artwork/mirror 500/1000 AED. |
500-2,000 AED |
| Packing Materials | Good companies provide all the packaging material. Some charge depending on number of boxes, or type of boxes. For example, wardrobe boxes are charged as an additional. |
Note: Rates depend on item volume, destination, and service provider.
DIY vs. Professional Packing: Which is Better?
It’s not just about breakages. It’s also about selecting the right type of material.
Good moving companies keep the use of plastic wrap and even bubble wrap to a minimum. Plastic can trap water or released moisture which over time in a hot container will lead to mould growing or water marks stains on furniture.
Breathable foam is used to protect items such as wooden furniture. The foam offer protection and also allows any released moisture to evaporate. Choosing a poor company who are not trained in selecting the correct type of material for the item being shipped can result in a dining table with small bubble marks arriving at the destination.
Reducing damage risk
Moving any item comes with an inherent risk of damage. Whether that be moving it across a room, across town or across the world, however a professional packer has been trained to wrap and protect an item to significantly reduce the risk of damage. Do you know how to pack dishes?
| Factor | DIY Packing | Professional Packing |
|---|---|---|
| Time & Effort: A professional moving company can wrap and pack a 3 bedroom home within a day. | High | Low |
| Cost: A professional moving company not only provides the manpower but also the packing materials. Purchasing your own boxes, tape, bubble wrap soon mounts up to a sizeable spend. | Low to Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Damage Risk: | Higher | Lower |
| Insurance Coverage: | Limited or none | Usually included |
Items that are packed by you need to be declared as ‘PBO – Packed By Owner’ on a packing list. The packing list in international shipment is a document that needs to be submitted to the customs authority. Items that have been packed by owner have a significant increased chance of being inspected by custom authorities.
Although everything that is wrapped and packed for an international shipment is the ultimate responsibility of the shipper – ie you the client- the trained staff of a professional moving company are aware of international regulations and therefore are able to guide you from breaking customs regulations.
Many international insurance companies will not cover and pay out on items that have not been packed by a professional moving company. The moving company must be part of an international moving federation such as the International Association of Movers.
So, should You Let Movers Pack for You?
Hiring professional movers to pack your belongings isn’t just about convenience — it’s about protecting what matters most. If you’re relocating from the UAE, letting experts like Mac Pack handle the packing can reduce stress, save time, and offer peace of mind during your international adventure.
FAQs — Quick Answers You’ll Need
Can I pack some items myself and let movers handle the rest?
Some people like to pack their personal items. Good moving companies allow this but ask that the boxes are not sealed so they can be checked by the professional packer.
Some people like to sort their belongings before the professional move company arrive. They should place the items in a box and when the packers arrive they will carefully wrap, pack and place the items back into the box ready and protected for international transportation.
Do movers pack everything, including appliances and furniture?
For items like fridge freezers, at least 48 hours before packing the fridge needs to be turned off. All food removed, shelves wiped over with a anti bacterial solution and the doors left open so that the fridge can completely dry.
When should I start packing for an international move?
As soon as you decide that you are relocating internationally start sorting, decluttering and preparing for your international move. Link to guide to decluttering
When should I start packing for an international move?
As soon as you decide that you are relocating internationally start sorting, decluttering and preparing for your international move. Link to guide to decluttering.
Make the Right Move with a Trusted Partner
Selecting the right international mover is key to a stress-free relocation. Do your research, compare options, and choose a company that offers transparency, expertise, and excellent customer service.
About The Author
Clare McIntyre
I’m an ex-primary school teacher who enjoys mulling over the latest shipping news, researching for the latest environmentally friendly packaging and sitting in the glory of moving a happy Mac Pack client from A to B. With a love of travelling, intrigue of nomadic people, and an expat for most of my life, I was drawn to write about the trials and tribulations of moving.
