How Much Does International Move Cost in Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles pricing is 38% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and Los Angeles's entertainment-tech-trade economy.See our methodology
International Move Pricing in Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a high-cost market where international move runs about 38% above the national average. The city's entertainment-tech-trade economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 3.9M, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in international move costs here. Year-round mild weather means no seasonal pricing spikes but high demand keeps prices elevated.
Market-specific factors matter in Los Angeles: seismic retrofit requirements add to construction costs; traffic increases travel time charges for contractors.
Los Angeles has strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your international move project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
Los Angeles vs National Average
What Affects International Move Cost in Los Angeles?
Destination
Canada/Mexico: $2,000-$5,000. Europe: $4,000-$10,000. Asia/Australia: $5,000-$15,000. South America: $3,500-$8,000
Method
Air freight: $4-$8/lb. Full container (sea): $3,000-$8,000. Shared container (sea): $1,500-$4,000
Los Angeles Market Conditions
seismic retrofit requirements add to construction costs; traffic increases travel time charges for contractors
Local Climate Impact
year-round mild weather means no seasonal pricing spikes but high demand keeps prices elevated
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Tips to Save on International Move in Los Angeles
- 1.Sea freight is 70-80% cheaper than air freight
- 2.Ship only what's worth more than its weight — many items are cheaper to replace abroad
- 3.Get a shared container (LCL) instead of a full container if you have less than 600 cu ft
- 4.Sell furniture and buy new abroad — it's often cheaper than shipping
- 5.In Los Angeles, verify your contractor handles local permits — the permitting process here is more involved than average and DIY permit applications can cause delays.
📈 International Move in Los Angeles Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $8,792 | — |
| 2021 | $9,161 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $9,756 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $10,029 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $10,350 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for International Move in Los Angeles
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an international move take?
Air freight: 1-2 weeks door to door. Sea freight: 4-8 weeks for Atlantic crossings, 6-12 weeks for Pacific. Add 1-2 weeks for customs clearance on either end.
Why does international move cost different in Los Angeles than other cities?
Los Angeles's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the entertainment-tech-trade economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and strict permitting requirements. The competitive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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