A Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Your Belongings to Saudi Arabia

If you’re planning a move abroad, one of the biggest tasks is shipping your household goods. Removals to Saudi Arabia involve several steps, from choosing a shipping method to clearing customs once your belongings arrive.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.

👉 For a complete overview of moving costs, customs, and expat life, see our main page: Removals to Saudi Arabia.

🚢 Step 1: Choose Your Shipping Method

When arranging removals to Saudi Arabia, you generally have two options:

Sea Freight 🌊 – The most popular and affordable method.
- Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal if you’re shipping an entire household.
- Shared Container (Groupage): Cheaper for smaller moves.
- Transit time: around 4–8 weeks.
Air Freight ✈️ – Faster but more expensive.
- Good for urgent shipments or small volumes.
- Transit time: 7–14 days.

📦 Step 2: Get an Instant Quote

Before you book your move, you’ll want an accurate idea of costs. With Advance Moves Instant Quote System, you simply:

Enter your basic move details.
Instantly receive a guideline price and volume estimate.
Get matched with the top 5 international movers for Saudi Arabia, who then contact you with tailored quotes.

This saves you hours of calling around and ensures you get the best deal.

📑 Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

To ship your belongings to Saudi Arabia, you’ll need:

Valid passport.
A residence permit (Iqama) or entry visa.
Work contract (if moving for employment).
Packing list in English and Arabic.
Customs forms (your mover will assist with these).

📜 Step 4: Understand Saudi Customs Rules

Saudi Arabia has strict import regulations. Items commonly restricted or prohibited include:

Alcohol, drugs, and certain foods.
Religious or political materials.
Some medicines and medical devices (require prior approval).

Your removal company will guide you on what can and cannot be shipped.

👉 For a detailed overview, read our blog: Customs Clearance in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know.

🚚 Step 5: Packing & Collection

Professional movers will:

Pack your items securely for long-distance transport.
Label and inventory everything for customs.
Collect your goods and load them into containers or air freight pallets.

🏙️ Step 6: Shipping & Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Sea freight shipments arrive at major ports like Jeddah or Dammam.
Air freight shipments usually arrive in Riyadh or Jeddah airports.
Your mover handles customs clearance, fees, and final delivery to your new home.

🔑 Step 7: Final Delivery & Settling In

Once cleared, your belongings are delivered to your new address in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, or elsewhere in Saudi Arabia. Movers can also help with unpacking and furniture assembly.

✅ Summary

Shipping your belongings to Saudi Arabia doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this step-by-step process—and using Advance Moves to get instant quotes—you’ll save time, money, and stress.

👉 Start planning your relocation today with a free instant quote: Removals to Saudi Arabia.