An international move is more than changing addresses. It requires planning, clear decisions and the right logistics partner. One key question shapes the entire process: Forwarding Agency or Moving Company for International Moves? Both options differ significantly in cost, service scope and personal effort. While moving companies focus on full-service solutions, forwarding agencies specialise in efficient transport. The right choice depends on your budget, time pressure, furniture volume and willingness to help yourself. This guide explains all relevant differences clearly and in detail.4
A moving company is ideal if you want full service and have a larger budget. A forwarding agency is better if you want to save money, need fast transport and can handle packing and loading yourself.
A traditional moving company is designed for private customers who want minimal effort. Services usually include packing, dismantling furniture and reassembly at the destination. Fragile items such as pianos, mirrors or antiques are handled by trained staff. This provides comfort and security. However, international full-service moves are expensive. Costs rise quickly with distance and service level. Fixed schedules and long lead times also reduce flexibility.
The main advantage is convenience. Customers do not need to lift, pack or coordinate anything. This is ideal for families, large households or people with limited time. On the downside, customers pay for services they may not need. Even if only furniture transport is required, full packages are often unavoidable. Short-notice changes are difficult. This makes full-service moves less adaptable.
A forwarding agency focuses on transport rather than household services. Packing, dismantling and loading are usually handled by the customer. In return, costs are significantly lower. Forwarders operate with optimised routes and strong logistics networks. This saves time and money. Within Europe, this option is especially popular. It suits partial moves, furniture-only transports or well-organised households. Flexibility is a clear advantage.
Forwarding agencies are almost always cheaper than moving companies. The reason is the reduced service scope. Customers benefit from quick availability. Express transport is often possible. Pick-ups within a few hours are realistic. This is ideal for time-sensitive relocations. However, physical effort is required. Without self-organisation or helpers, this model is not suitable.
One major benefit of modern forwarding agencies is direct transport. Your goods remain in the same vehicle from collection to delivery. No reloading means less handling. This significantly reduces the risk of damage. Furniture and bulky items benefit in particular. Transit times are shorter and tracking is clearer. Customers know exactly where their shipment is at all times.
The decision depends on clear criteria. Choose a moving company if comfort is your priority and budget is less important. Choose a forwarding agency if you want to save money and stay flexible. The size of your household also matters. Partial moves are ideal for forwarding agencies. Large, complex relocations may benefit from full service. Honest self-assessment is key.
| Criterion | International Moving Company | Traditional Forwarding Agency | DAGO Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope of services | Full service incl. packing & furniture assembly | Transport only | Transport only |
| Customs & authorities | Comprehensive support with customs & import formalities | Limited, mainly goods customs clearance | Support provided (e.g. transport documents) |
| Insurance | Move-specific insurance, extendable | Limited coverage | Cargo / transport insurance |
| Costs | Higher | Lower | Lower |
| Flexibility | Lower | Higher | Higher |
| Personal effort required | Low | High | Medium |
As a specialised forwarding agency, DAGO Express provides direct transport across Europe. Customers benefit from transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Online quotes are available instantly. Pick-ups are often possible within 60 to 120 minutes. The Europe-wide network covers destinations from Spain to Scandinavia. The focus is on speed, safety and efficiency. Ideal for anyone who wants control and cost efficiency.
Forwarding Agency or Moving Company for International Moves? There is no universal right or wrong answer. The best solution depends on your priorities. Full service offers comfort at a price. Forwarding agencies offer flexibility, speed and lower costs. Especially for European moves, direct transport with a forwarding agency is often the smarter choice. Clear planning makes all the difference.
