Moving to Philippines From US - Expert Relocations Services - Earthrelo
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Stress-Free Moving to Philippines from US

Moving to Philippines from US is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right support. From packing your household goods to navigating customs and delivery, every step requires careful planning. That’s where Earthrelo comes in — our team of international moving experts makes the process seamless, reliable, and tailored to your needs. Whether you’re relocating to Manila, Cebu, or Davao, we ensure your move is stress-free from start to finish.

The capital of this country, Manila, is vastly known as “The Pearl of the orient.” In this buzzing center of the country, more than 21 million people reside. Keeping that figure in mind, no wonder why the Philippines comes 13th among the most populated countries across the Globe.

Moving to the Philippines from the US is an exciting opportunity to experience the rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality of this Southeast Asian country. However, moving internationally can be complex and challenging. EarthRelo offers comprehensive moving services to the Philippines, designed to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our expert team handles every aspect of your move, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and efficiently to your new home in the Philippines.

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Why Moving to Philippines from the US?

Relocating to Philippines from US offers a unique blend of opportunity, lifestyle, and culture that draws thousands of expats every year. With its warm tropical climate, welcoming communities, and affordable cost of living, the Philippines is an attractive destination for both families and professionals. Many Americans choose the country not only for retirement or family ties but also for its growing business and career opportunities across finance, healthcare, and technology.

The expat life in Philippines is supported by thriving international communities in major cities. Manila offers a bustling urban lifestyle with global business connections, Cebu combines modern amenities with stunning beaches, while Davao is known for its relaxed pace of life and safety. These hubs make it easier for newcomers to settle in, build networks, and enjoy local culture while still having access to familiar comforts.

From beautiful coastlines to modern infrastructure, moving to Philippines from US allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds — a laid-back lifestyle combined with opportunities for growth and adventure. Whether you’re planning a long-term relocation or a career move, Earthrelo ensures that your transition is smooth, reliable, and stress-free.

Relocating - Moving To Philippines

If you are moving to Philippines from the USA for a significantly long period. In that case, it could be quite a grueling process for you to relocate all your furniture and delicates as you are not just only changing countries but entire continents as well!

To ease your complexity, we have gathered average shipping rates for various Philippines locations from the USA to give you a fair idea of what amount you would need to be prepared to spare while relocating.

In general, the Ocean freight rates range from $3500 to $4500 to the capital of the Philippines from different locations in the USA.

Let’s explore more fares in detail to get you a precise idea of the particular location when you are moving to the Philippines.

USA Philippines Rates
Columbus Manila $1,561
Cincinnati Manila $1,721
Los Angeles Manila $1,098
Houston Manila $1,338
Charleston Manila $1,081

Best shipping rates for 20 FCL containers to the Philippines from US.

USA Philippines 20FCL Rates
New-York Manila $1,071.40
Miami Manila $1,071.40
Jacksonville Manila $1,071.40
Charleston Manila $1,071.40

Earthrelo provides shipping assistance in multiple ways providing the best price and service in the industry for your moving to the Philippines.

We will provide you profound assistance moving to Philippines, starting from the Moving process to the settling-in process through our well-versed and highly experienced movers.

Now, let’s get a panoramic view of the top cities of the Philippines which will enable you to get the best lifestyle of the Philippines with the ample availability of resources to reside there comfortably.

American Expat Living In Philippines

The Philippines is filled with numerous Metro cities and states with splendid scenic views and robust infrastructure through which the Philippine economy is built. Expats choose their destination based on their employment opportunities, the education system for their kids and

Let’s move forward by taking the first destination, the capital of the country, Manila!

Moving to Manila

The Metro city of Manila is widely known for its expat friendliness. Cities like Bonifacio Global City and Makati city may top the list of the top favorite destinations for Expats coming to the Philippines from every corner of the world.

As these cities are one of the popular cities in the country, one needs to pick an accommodation place very wisely as these cities are significantly populated and therefore, always consider the elements like available transportation services, commute hours at the time of choosing the place to stay.

Moving to Cebu

After Manila Metro city, Cebu is the second popular choice for expats to reside. Cebu offers almost every facility and comfort as Manila with less air pollution and urban congestion.

So it’s like a win-win situation that nobody could refuse!

The international Airport of Cebu connects you directly with several other international cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur in a single flight. Hence, connecting to other parts of the Asian region becomes convenient from Cebu.

Moreover, internal parts of Cebu, like Mactan, are considered a safer place for expats and Foreigners, so most of them tend to prefer living there as they find their community there.

Moving to Davao City

This Fruit Basket of the Philippines has everything to lure the expats towards the city. Davao is considered one of the prosperous and vibrant cities of the country due to multiple reasons like its Expat friendly community and its warm-hearted people.

It is also known as the main hub for commercial exchanges. If you are looking forward to experiencing the authentic culture of the Philippines, then Davao is the perfect destination to live in for the long term or at least a few years.

Davao largely makes its maximum revenue from the production and export of vast varieties of fruits. Mainly agriculture and gardening is the main source of income of the people of Davao.

To discover more about these while you are moving to Philippines and more fascinating cities of the Philippines, connect with the experts knowing locals and begin your life in the Philippines stress-free!

Shipping Household Goods to the Philippines

When moving to Philippines from US, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to ship your household goods. Most shipments travel by sea freight, which typically takes between 5 to 8 weeks depending on your origin and destination. For urgent or smaller shipments, air freight is available and usually arrives within 1 to 2 weeks, though at a higher cost.

Earthrelo offers two main shipping options to match your needs:

  • Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal for larger moves where you need exclusive use of a 20’ or 40’ container. FCL provides faster transit times and less handling of your belongings.
  • Less than Container Load (LCL): A cost-efficient choice if you’re moving a smaller shipment. Your goods are consolidated with other shipments, making it affordable but with slightly longer handling times.

It’s also important to consider Philippines customs regulations for moving. Items such as firearms, certain electronics, and restricted food products are prohibited, while personal effects and household goods can typically be imported duty-free if you meet the residency and documentation requirements. Earthrelo’s team helps prepare a detailed inventory, manage customs paperwork, and guide you through each step so you avoid unnecessary delays.

Whether you’re shipping to Manila, Cebu, Davao, or other parts of the country, Earthrelo’s international moving experts ensure that your household goods arrive safely and on schedule. From professional packing at your home to delivery at your new residence in the Philippines, we handle the details so you can focus on settling in.

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Cost of Moving to Philippines from US

The cost of moving to Philippines from US can vary widely depending on the size of your shipment, your origin city, and the services you require. On average, most international moves fall between $3,000 and $12,000+. Sea freight is the most common and economical choice, while air freight offers faster transit times at a higher price.

Several key factors influence your final cost:

  • Shipment size and weight: Larger household moves with more furniture and personal goods require bigger containers, which raises costs.
  • Origin and destination city: Shipping to Manila may be less expensive than shipping to Cebu or Davao due to direct port access.
  • FCL vs LCL vs air freight:
    • Full Container Load (FCL) gives you exclusive use of a container, ideal for whole households.
    • Less than Container Load (LCL) is a budget-friendly option when you’re shipping fewer belongings.
    • Air freight ensures faster delivery but comes with premium pricing.
  • Storage or insurance: If you need temporary storage or choose shipment protection, these services will add to the overall cost.

At Earthrelo, we tailor every move to your unique requirements. Our team provides transparent pricing and clear guidance so you know exactly what to expect before your goods leave the US.

Housing And Accommodation

A proper housing facility is more necessary than a mere need if you move to the Philippines from the USA with your family and kids.

Fortunately, the Philippines have multiple lifestyle choices to offer you when you decide to live here. From Rural farmhouses to condos, you can find every kind of housing facility per your requirements and budget.

Usually, the rents are not quite high due to the low cost of living in the Philippines, yet you can find them high in urban areas like the Metro city of Manila.

To find the best housing for you and your family, you can rely on certain internet listings and national daily newspapers. The rent is usually paid on an annual basis and that too in advance by postdated checks.

Expats moving to Philippines normally prefer living near where most people of their community live. However, safety is never an issue when it comes to Housing facilities in the Philippines.

Moving to Philippines Checklist

Planning an overseas relocation is easier when you follow a step-by-step guide. This moving to Philippines checklist helps you stay organized before, during, and after your move.

Pre-Move Preparation

  • Declutter and downsize: Sort your belongings and decide what to take, donate, or sell.
  • Book your movers early: Secure a trusted international moving partner like Earthrelo to lock in your preferred dates.
  • Prepare important documents: Keep passports, visas, medical records, and school transcripts handy.
  • Pack strategically: Label boxes clearly and let professionals handle fragile or high-value items.

During the Move

  • Track your shipment: Earthrelo provides updates so you know where your household goods are at each stage.
  • Handle customs paperwork: Ensure your inventory list and required forms are accurate to avoid delays.
  • Stay in touch: Keep open communication with your move coordinator to address questions quickly.

After Arrival in the Philippines

  • Register locally: Complete residency or barangay registration as required.
  • Set up essentials: Arrange utilities, internet, and local banking to settle in smoothly.
  • Explore expat communities: Join networks in Manila, Cebu, or Davao to build connections and feel at home faster.

By following this moving to Philippines checklist, you’ll enjoy a smoother transition and peace of mind. With Earthrelo managing logistics, customs, and delivery, you can focus on starting your new life in the Philippines.

Education In Philippines

Thing to consider while Moving To Philippines

If you are worried about the drastic change your kids might face while changing countries and the possible mode of change in education they are getting till now, then put yourself at ease as the education system in the Philippines is pretty similarly modeled after the US education system.

As education is not a choice but compulsory in the country, the literacy ratio is pretty high here. Mostly the higher education is run by private schools and churches.

Primary Education

The Government has prominently focused on primary education. Hence, the drop-out ratio after primary education is quite high. However, the initiatives have been started to develop the education system on the primary level and cover each level of education for the kids.

Higher Education

Comparatively the higher education in the Philippines cannot come that up to the mark as the USA. Still, the opportunities of higher education are there if one wants to pursue through private institutions.

Earthrelo’s International Moving Services to the Philippines

Choosing the right international movers to Philippines can make the difference between a stressful relocation and a smooth transition. At Earthrelo, we specialize in helping families, professionals, and businesses move from the US to the Philippines with confidence. Our comprehensive services are designed to cover every stage of your move:

  • Professional Packing & Crating: We use export-grade materials and custom crating to protect fragile or high-value items.
  • Freight Options: Whether you need Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), or expedited air freight, we tailor shipping solutions to fit your timeline and budget.
  • Customs Guidance: Navigating paperwork and regulations in a new country can be daunting. Our experts simplify the process, ensuring your household goods clear customs smoothly.
  • Transportation & Final Delivery: From port handling to door-to-door delivery in Manila, Cebu, Davao, or other cities, we manage logistics so you don’t have to.
  • Secure Storage Solutions: Need flexibility? We offer short-term and long-term storage both in the US and the Philippines.

With years of international relocation experience, Earthrelo is committed to making moving to Philippines from US efficient, reliable, and stress-free.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Moving to Philippines

  • How much does it cost to move to Philippines from US?

    The cost of moving to Philippines from US depends on several factors, including the volume of your shipment, the origin and destination cities, and whether you choose sea or air freight. On average, families can expect costs to range from $3,000 to $12,000 or more. Full container loads (FCL) are ideal for larger households, while less than container loads (LCL) offer budget-friendly options for smaller moves. Earthrelo provides transparent pricing and tailored quotes so you can plan with confidence and avoid surprises.

  • How long does shipping household goods to the Philippines take?

    When moving to Philippines from US, the transit time for your shipment depends on the shipping method. Sea freight is the most common option and typically takes between 5 to 8 weeks, depending on port access and customs clearance. For urgent shipments, air freight is much faster, usually arriving in 1 to 2 weeks, though at a higher cost. Earthrelo offers both options and provides regular updates so you know where your belongings are at every stage of the journey.

  • What documents are required for moving to the Philippines?

    To successfully complete your move, several documents are needed when moving to Philippines from US. These include a valid passport, visa or residence permit, a detailed packing list or inventory, and a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill. Some shipments may also require customs declarations or permits for restricted items. Earthrelo’s relocation specialists guide you through preparing and organizing these documents to ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid delays.

  • Can I move my furniture when relocating to the Philippines?

    Yes, most types of household furniture can be shipped when moving to Philippines from US. However, it is important to prepare a complete inventory and ensure your items meet customs requirements. Earthrelo provides professional packing services to protect furniture during transit and handles the paperwork required for customs. From sofas and dining tables to beds and office furniture, our team ensures your belongings arrive safely and are delivered directly to your new home.

  • Is it cheaper to ship by air or sea when moving to Philippines from US?

    Generally, shipping by sea is the more affordable choice when moving to Philippines from US, especially for large household moves. Sea freight options include Full Container Load (FCL) for full households or Less than Container Load (LCL) for smaller shipments. Air freight, while faster, is significantly more expensive and is best reserved for urgent or high-value items. Earthrelo helps you choose the most cost-effective solution, balancing your budget and timeline without compromising service quality.

  • What are the customs regulations for moving household goods to the Philippines?

    When moving to Philippines from US, customs regulations allow returning residents and immigrants to import used household goods duty-free, provided they have owned and used the items for at least six months. Prohibited items include firearms, illegal drugs, hazardous materials, and certain electronics. To avoid issues, you must prepare a detailed inventory and ensure compliance with all rules. Earthrelo’s customs guidance services streamline this process, helping you avoid unnecessary fees or delays.

  • Do I need insurance when shipping to the Philippines?

    While not mandatory, shipment protection is highly recommended when moving to Philippines from US. International transit involves handling, loading, and long distances, so having coverage protects you against loss or damage. Earthrelo offers optional all-risk insurance tailored to the value of your goods, providing peace of mind throughout the move. With our end-to-end relocation services, you can be confident that your belongings are well-protected from start to finish.

  • How can Earthrelo help with moving to Philippines from US?

    Earthrelo specializes in international relocations and provides complete support for anyone moving to Philippines from US. Our services include professional packing, ocean and air freight, customs documentation, transportation, and final delivery. We also offer storage solutions and shipment protection to match your unique needs. By choosing Earthrelo, you gain a dedicated move coordinator and a reliable partner who ensures your transition is seamless, cost-effective, and stress-free from start to finish.

Conclusion

The Philippines is the tap of opportunities for everyone, especially for the digital nomad community who loves to explore new experiences with the perfect work-life balance.

At Earthrelo, our seasoned Movers will cater to your exact requirement and are aimed to provide you a custom service as per the size of your move and location.

Don’t take our word for it ask our more than 10,000 satisfied customers till now.

Connect with our experts now to get professional guidance on all the practical services you would need, from shipping your delicate valuables safely to finding your new home in a foreign country while moving to Philippines from USA, we will be there in your every need!

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