Moving to India? Here is what you need to know
Moving to India? Here is what you need to know
India is an increasingly attractive destination for expats, entrepreneurs, and remote workers seeking affordability and cultural diversity. With a significantly lower cost of living compared to Western countries, it allows for a comfortable lifestyle while offering access to modern services in major cities.
The country features a mix of public and private healthcare, along with rapidly developing infrastructure. From the fast-paced cities of Mumbai and Delhi to the tech hub of Bangalore and the coastal lifestyle of Goa, India offers a wide range of living options. With its rich cultural heritage and growing economy, it appeals to those seeking both professional opportunities and a unique living experience.
Strong
Job Market
Strong
Job Market
Rapidly growing economy with strong demand in tech, services, and startups.
Quality of Life
Diverse living options with affordable costs in many regions.
Innovation Hub
Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Delhi are major global tech and startup hubs.
Infrastructure
Rapidly developing transport, digital, and urban infrastructure.
World-Class Education
World-Class Education
Top institutions in engineering, business, and technology.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Dynamic culture with a rich mix of traditions, cuisine, and city life.
1,500
Verified Movers
5,500
Reviews
250 - 700
Avg Local Move
28
Regions
1,500
Verified Movers
5,500
Reviews
250 - 700
Avg Local Move
28
Regions
1,500
Verified Movers
5,500
Reviews
250 - 700
Avg Local Move
28
Regions
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
€150–€500
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
€50–€200/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
€100–€400
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
€200–€800
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
€50–€200
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
€75–€250
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Most Asked Questions
What’s the first thing to sort out before moving to India?
Your visa and local contact. India’s process can be paperwork-heavy, so having your documents and a local employer or sponsor lined up makes everything easier.
What’s the best way to ship household goods to India?
Sea freight is the most common (5–9 weeks), especially for full moves. Air freight is faster but typically used only for essentials due to cost.
Are customs in India complicated?
They can be. India has strict and sometimes detailed import rules, and duties may apply depending on your visa type and items. Proper documentation and a reliable mover are key.
Should I ship all my furniture?
Not always. Many expats bring personal items but buy furniture locally. It’s often more practical, especially since housing styles and sizes can vary a lot.
What’s the biggest challenge when relocating to India?
Adjusting to how things work, processes can be less predictable than in Europe. That applies to both logistics and daily life.
Are deliveries straightforward in Indian cities?
Not always. Traffic, narrow streets, and access to buildings can be challenging. Experienced movers will plan for this in advance.
Moving Costs Breakdown
Moving Costs Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of your move
helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$3,500 – $9,000
2–3 Bed Apartment
$1,000 - $1,600
4+ Bed / House
$800 – $1,800
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$3,500 – $9,000
2–3 Bed Apartment
$1,000 - $1,600
4+ Bed / House
$800 – $1,800
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$60 – $200
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$20–$100 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$50–$180
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$100–$400
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$30–$120
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$40–$150
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$60 – $200
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$20–$100 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$50–$180
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$100–$400
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$30–$120
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$40–$150
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$60 – $200
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$20–$100 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$50–$180
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$100–$400
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$30–$120
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$40–$150
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
· Research cities and regions that fit your lifestyle (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai) · Start decluttering and deciding what to ship vs. buy locally · Begin gathering quotes from verified international movers · Check passport validity and visa requirements for India (employment visa, student visa, OCI, etc.)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance is recommended)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Research how to open an Indian bank account · Organize important documents (birth certificates, employment letters, medical records) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to India · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Indian contact details with the mover
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance is recommended)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa application and gather required documents · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (private insurance is recommended)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Research how to open an Indian bank account · Organize important documents (birth certificates, employment letters, medical records) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to India · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Indian contact details with the mover
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Indian contact details with the mover
Most Asked Questions
Most Asked Questions
What’s the first thing to sort out before moving to India?
Your visa and local contact. India’s process can be paperwork-heavy, so having your documents and a local employer or sponsor lined up makes everything easier.
What’s the best way to ship household goods to India?
Sea freight is the most common (5–9 weeks), especially for full moves. Air freight is faster but typically used only for essentials due to cost.
Are customs in India complicated?
They can be. India has strict and sometimes detailed import rules, and duties may apply depending on your visa type and items. Proper documentation and a reliable mover are key.
Should I ship all my furniture?
Not always. Many expats bring personal items but buy furniture locally. It’s often more practical, especially since housing styles and sizes can vary a lot.
What’s the biggest challenge when relocating to India?
Adjusting to how things work, processes can be less predictable than in Europe. That applies to both logistics and daily life.
Are deliveries straightforward in Indian cities?
Not always. Traffic, narrow streets, and access to buildings can be challenging. Experienced movers will plan for this in advance.
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more?
Sponsors
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigration
Agato Visa & Immigration
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
April International
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
AvD
AvD
AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.
AXA PPP International
AXA PPP International
AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.
Bambridge Accountants
Bambridge Accountants
Bambridge Accountants provides accounting, tax, and financial advisory services, helping individuals and businesses manage their finances and stay compliant.
BDO Nederland
BDO Nederland
BDO Nederland provides accounting, tax, audit, and business advisory services, helping organizations create long-term value through trusted expertise.
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Copyright © Moveasy BV
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Sponsors
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigration
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
AvD
AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.
AXA PPP International
AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.
Bambridge Accountants
Bambridge Accountants provides accounting, tax, and financial advisory services, helping individuals and businesses manage their finances and stay compliant.
BDO Nederland
BDO Nederland provides accounting, tax, audit, and business advisory services, helping organizations create long-term value through trusted expertise.
Load More