What you can and cannot ship to the USA (2027 guide)

Shipping your belongings to the USA is mostly straightforward: used furniture, clothing, books, electronics and other household goods you have owned and used can usually enter duty free as part of a move. The items that cause problems are food, plants, alcohol, firearms, hazardous materials and anything new or intended for sale. This guide explains what you can and cannot ship to the USA in 2027, which items need a permit and how to prepare your paperwork so your shipment clears US customs without delay.

Why US customs rules matter when moving to the USA

When it comes to shipping items to the USA, there are regulations and restrictions you need to follow for safety, security and compliance with US law. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checks every international shipment, and abiding by its rules matters for several reasons:

• Legal compliance: US customs laws regulate the movement of goods across borders. Following them means your goods arrive lawfully.
• Avoiding penalties and fines: Breaking US customs rules can lead to significant fines, seizure of goods and even legal action.
• Smooth customs clearance: Accurate and honest declarations help prevent delays, inspections and extra storage charges at the port.
• Security and safety: Customs rules stop dangerous substances and illegal goods entering the country.
• Environmental and cultural protection: Rules on plants, animal products and protected species help protect US agriculture, wildlife and cultural heritage.
• Responsibility sits with you: Not knowing a rule is no defence, so it pays to check before you pack.

In short, following US customs rules keeps your move legal, safe and on schedule. To limit the chance of surprises, here is what you can and cannot ship to the USA.

What items can you ship to the USA?

A wide range of items can be shipped to the USA in your household goods consignment. CBP generally allows household effects and personal effects that you have owned and used abroad to enter duty free when you are moving to the USA to live. Items you can usually ship include:

• Furniture and household items: Sofas, beds, tables, home decor and kitchenware can be shipped for personal use.
• Clothing and accessories: Clothing, shoes, bags and fashion accessories.
• Books, documents and printed materials: Letters, books, magazines, photographs and personal papers.
• Electronics: Laptops, TVs, games consoles and other electronics. Check that UK appliances will work on the US 120V supply, as many will need a transformer.
• Artwork: Paintings, sculptures and decorative items can be shipped, although they may need specialist packing and crating.
• Medication and medical equipment: Prescription medicines for personal use may be allowed in limited quantities with the prescription and in original packaging. Most people carry essential medication in hand luggage rather than shipping it.
• Toiletries and cosmetics: Non-hazardous cosmetics and toiletries are allowed. Aerosols and flammable products are not suitable for a household goods shipment.
• Everyday personal items: Toys and games, sports equipment, craft and hobby supplies, educational materials, music and media, pet supplies and baby items.

Although these items are generally permitted, duty or tax can still apply to new items, goods bought for someone else or anything for commercial use. Check with your Pickfords Move Manager before packing anything you are unsure about.

What items can you not ship to the USA?

Some items are prohibited from entering the USA to protect the safety, health and environment of the country. Common items you cannot ship include:

• Illegal substances: Illegal drugs, narcotics and controlled substances.
• Hazardous materials: Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids, gas cylinders, paint, aerosols, lighter fluid and toxic chemicals. These are also excluded from household removals for safety reasons.
• Counterfeit goods: Fake designer goods, fake currency and items that infringe trademarks or copyright.
• Certain agricultural items: Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, plants, seeds and soil without the right permits.
• Products from embargoed countries: Goods from countries under US sanctions are generally prohibited.
• Obscene materials: Material that is obscene or illegal under US law.
• Unapproved medical products: Medicines, devices or supplements not approved for use in the USA.
• Radioactive materials: Items containing radioactive substances.
• Protected wildlife products: Ivory, certain furs, skins and items made from endangered species without the correct permits.

Customs rules can change, so there may be other prohibited or restricted items not listed here. Always check the latest rules on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and with your international Move Manager before shipping.

Restricted items that need extra paperwork

Some items are not banned outright but need permits, approval or special handling.

Paperwork for shipping household goods to the USA

Having the right documents ready speeds up customs clearance. For most household moves you will need:

• A valid passport and US visa or green card
• CBP Form 3299 (Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles)
• A detailed inventory of the items in your shipment
• Your US address and arrival date
• Any permits for restricted items

Your Pickfords Move Manager will tell you exactly what is needed for your visa type and arrival port, and our team prepares the inventory as we pack. Find out more on our removals to the USA page.

How to prepare your shipment to the USA

• Declutter before you pack, as shipping costs are based on volume.
• Use up or leave behind food, cleaning products, paints and aerosols.
• Clean garden tools, bicycles, sports equipment and outdoor furniture.
• Keep valuables, important documents and essential medication with you.
• Check which electrical items will work in the USA.
• Arrange pet travel separately with our pet shipping service.
• Store items you are not ready to ship. Pickfords self storage starts from £18. Choose a secure facility to keep your belongings safe at all times.

Moving to New York? Read our guide to moving to New York from the UK for advice on neighbourhoods, visas and USA shipping costs.

Why ship to the USA with Pickfords

By choosing Pickfords as your international mover, you will have all the support you need to ship your household goods to the USA. We have won the Forum of Expatriate Management 'International Moving Company of the Year' award several times, most recently in 2024. Our team packs, ships and handles customs paperwork for your move, and the cost of your USA shipment depends on volume, distance and the service you choose, so we provide a free tailored quote. Visit our international removals page to see how we can help.

Frequently asked questions

• Do I pay duty on household goods shipped to the USA?

Household and personal effects you have owned and used are usually duty free when you are moving to the USA to live. New items, goods for resale and some alcohol may be taxed. Your Move Manager can check your inventory before shipping.

• Can I ship food to the USA in my container?

It is best not to. Most fresh, meat and dairy products are restricted by the USDA and can cause inspections and delays for your whole shipment.

• Can I ship my car to the USA from the UK?

Only if it meets US safety and emissions standards, which many UK models do not. Check the rules on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website before deciding, as selling and buying in the USA is often simpler.

• Can I ship my garden furniture and tools?

Yes, as long as they are completely clean. Soil can carry pests, so CBP and the USDA may hold items that arrive dirty.

• Can I bring my dog or cat to the USA?

Yes, but pets travel separately from household goods. Dogs must meet CDC import requirements, so plan early with our pet shipping team.

• What form do I need for my household goods?

Most people moving to the USA complete CBP Form 3299 to claim duty free entry for their household effects. Your passport, visa and a full inventory are also needed.

• How long does shipping to the USA take?

Timescales depend on whether you choose a full container or shared groupage, your UK collection point and your US destination. Your Move Manager will give you an estimated timeline with your quote.

Ready to ship your belongings to the USA? Request a free quote for your international move or get in touch with our expert team for personalised advice.