Shipping and Removals in Mumbai

The city has a busy port with several moving and relocation companies offering competitive price quotes for expats shipping to Mumbai. Expats should consider carefully whether shipping is necessary, as well as whether the company they choose is reputable and whether they offer the desired services at a reasonable rate.

Much of the expat accommodation in Mumbai is already furnished, and buying furniture is not too expensive if one buys from cheap local dealers and markets. It is often less pricey than shipping furniture from overseas. However, when expats leave Mumbai, they may want a removal company to ship furniture, artwork or other items from India back to their home country.

Hiring an international removal company

When hiring a removal firm, it's a good idea to get prices and quotes from a few different companies as rates vary quite a bit. Movers can completely pack up a house, take inventory, provide insurance and storage solutions, ship the contents and unpack them in Mumbai. Relocation companies often go a step further, offering immigration, accommodation and school-finding support.

For expensive shipped items, it is a good idea to invest in insurance and to do so from a company other than the one used for shipping. Airfreight should be considered for smaller amounts of cargo, although it is more expensive.

Shipping duty-free to Mumbai

Costs for shipping to Mumbai add up quickly, however, there are certain customs exemptions applied based on the type of items and residential status of the expat. Indian citizens and expats planning on becoming formal residents of India may be able to import their used personal and household goods duty free. There are some exceptions, so expats should consult the Indian government’s baggage rules before finalising their shipment.

Expats working in Mumbai may receive an allowance for air- and sea freight as part of their contract and relocation package, and it's helpful to take full advantage of any airfreight allowance for essential items.

India has a strong e-commerce sector, and expats may want to buy products online while staying in Mumbai. We recommend always checking the related fees for shipping and delivery when shopping online.

Shipping pets to Mumbai

Pets are allowed to be relocated to Mumbai if they have current vaccinations and rabies shots as well as all the required paperwork. We suggest enlisting the services of a professional pet relocation company or a removal company that offers pet relocation.