Hi there – I’m moving permanently from Texas to Vienna on June 1 – woohoo! I’ve been gathering quotes from ocean freight forwarders for my move. I’ve seen a few recommendations here for international moving companies, but my shipment will be small (less than a container), and there is no employer paying for this move. 🙂 I’d really appreciate any recommendations or warnings about any ocean freight forwarders — I’ve read more horror stories than good reviews.

I understand that there is no customs charge for shipping personal belongings. I’ve seen recommendations about securing a letter from the local consulate to use as proof that I am moving to Vienna, to present when I pick up my shipment. However, I am coming into the country (with my new Austrian husband) on a 90-day tourist visa, so my residency permit application will still be in progress when my belongings arrive. Anyone have experience with this? Do you recommend using a customs broker?

I’ve been giving away/selling so many of my beloved possessions to both lower the cost of shipping, and accommodate a smaller living space. I’m hoping to find a reasonably-priced shipper, or I will be tearing my 30 boxes open to pare down AGAIN. I’ve already narrowed down my collections of music, books, photographs, art, family mementos, and mid-century collectables — not to mention clothes and household things that are hard to find in Vienna. I can leave a few things with friends and relatives, but I don’t want to burden them with much. As I prioritize my possessions, I’d love to know whether there are things you wish you’d taken, or what might have been a waste to bring along. I know I can scan photos, for example, but when I get homesick, will those scans ever be as nice as holding the real ones in my hand?

Thanks for your advice!