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Cross-Border Moving: Shenzhen to Sendai in 10 Days

A complete guide to international relocation — from packing to delivery

Moving is never easy, and when that move crosses borders and oceans, the challenges multiply. Recently, we helped a client complete an international move from Shenzhen, China to Sendai, Japan in just 10 days, ensuring their belongings arrived safely and efficiently at their new home.

Client Background & Requirements

Mr. Hirose was relocating from Shenzhen to Sendai, Japan due to a job transfer. His main requirements were:

  • Transport daily essentials (clothing, books, kitchenware, some decorations)
  • Fast delivery to minimize the adjustment period in the new environment
  • Special protection for fragile items
  • Full tracking throughout the process to reduce uncertainty

Phase 1: Professional Packing & Preparation (Days 1-2)

Professional packing of moving boxes

The first and most crucial step in international moving is professional packing. Our team visited Mr. Hirose's residence in Shenzhen and conducted systematic packing work:

Classification & Sorting

  • Essentials (priority shipping)
  • Regular daily items
  • Special items (fragile, high-value)

Professional Packing Materials

  • Extra-thick cardboard boxes for enhanced crush resistance
  • Multi-layer bubble wrap for fragile items
  • Vacuum compression bags for clothing to save space
  • Small boxes for books to avoid excessive weight

Detailed Labeling System

Each box received a unique number with content category, handling instructions ("Fragile", "This Side Up"), and destination room (bedroom, kitchen, etc.), greatly simplifying the unpacking process.

Phase 2: Customs Documentation & Transport Arrangement (Day 3)

One of the core aspects of international shipping is customs documentation. We assisted the client with:

  • Bilingual Inventory: Detailed Chinese-English list of all items, quantities, and values
  • Duty-Free Application: Proper declaration according to Japanese customs regulations for tax benefits
  • Transport Insurance: Full-coverage insurance for the entire shipment
  • Transport Method: Air freight selected based on client's time requirements

Phase 3: Air Freight Process (Days 4-6)

The air freight process from Shenzhen to Sendai included:

Shenzhen Operations

  • Transport to nearest international airport after packing
  • Security inspection and aviation security check
  • Complete airway bill and export customs clearance

Air Transport

  • Direct flights prioritized to reduce transit risks
  • Temperature and humidity controlled environment throughout

Japan Customs Clearance

  • Our Japan partner assisted with clearance upon arrival at Sendai
  • Handled all Japanese import procedures
  • Verified item integrity

Phase 4: Japan Domestic Delivery & Setup (Days 7-10)

Delivery tracking information

After customs clearance, the final phase was delivery to the client:

  • Professional moving vehicles transported items to client's new residence
  • Boxes delivered to corresponding rooms based on label system
  • Basic unpacking and item placement service provided
Customer feedback message

Upon receiving all items, Mr. Hirose confirmed that all 15 shipping boxes arrived intact with no damage to any fragile items.

10-Day Air Freight Moving Timeline

  1. Day 1: On-site assessment, plan development
  2. Day 2: Professional packing, classification labeling
  3. Day 3: Documentation preparation, airport delivery
  4. Days 4-6: Air transport, Japan customs clearance
  5. Days 7-9: Japan domestic transport, delivery
  6. Day 10: Client receipt, items in place

International Moving Tips

Based on this successful case, here are our recommendations for international moving:

  • Plan Ahead: Start preparing at least 1 month in advance, especially for documentation
  • Declutter: International shipping costs relate to weight/volume — simplify before moving
  • Know Customs Rules: Different countries have different import restrictions (certain foods, plants, etc.)
  • Choose Professional Services: International moving involves multiple steps — professionals can avoid many potential issues
  • Get Adequate Insurance: Purchase insurance for valuables and overall shipment

From Shenzhen to Sendai, a straight-line distance of approximately 2,800 kilometers — through professional planning and efficient execution, we successfully completed this international move in just 10 days. Mr. Hirose has now settled comfortably in Sendai, with his daily belongings intact to accompany him as he begins a new chapter in life.

International moving is not just about transporting items — it's about continuing life's journey. Professional moving services can ease the stress of this process, allowing clients to focus on embracing their new beginnings.

Planning an International Move?

Contact our international moving experts for a customized quote and solution.

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Note: All photos are from our actual international moving operations. Client information has been appropriately redacted for privacy. All shipments comply with international aviation safety standards and relevant import/export regulations.