Luggage for moving to the US to immigrate needs to be prepared selectively, since you cannot bring everything and some items are restricted from entry. Knowing what to bring makes the journey easier. This article guides you on preparing reasonable luggage for moving to the US to immigrate.
Luggage for Moving to the US to Immigrate: Prioritize Documents
Most important are documents: passport, visa, civil records, medical records and your child’s school records. These should be kept in carry-on luggage, not checked luggage, to avoid loss.
Next are personal items that are hard to replace or hold sentimental value. Otherwise, many everyday items can be purchased in the United States, so there is no need to bring a lot.
Things to Consider or Avoid
Some items are restricted or prohibited from entry, especially fresh food, products from animals or plants, and certain other items. Bringing these items may result in confiscation or a fine if not declared.
So, before packing, you should check the list of restricted items. If bringing distinctive dried food items, research carefully and declare truthfully upon entry.
Notes on Packing Luggage
You should comply with the airline’s weight and size regulations, and keep documents and personal medication in your carry-on luggage. Clear labeling helps with easier management.
You should refer to information before entry and list of restricted items to prepare your luggage according to regulations and avoid trouble at the border.
Summary
Luggage for moving to the US to immigrate should prioritize documents and hard-to-replace items in carry-on luggage, while limiting items that are easy to buy locally. You need to avoid fresh food and restricted items, or declare them truthfully. You should check the list of prohibited/restricted items before packing.
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References
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection — Know Before You Go: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/know-before-you-go
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection — Prohibited and Restricted Items: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/prohibited-and-restricted-items
Read more: Overview of the EB-3 visa for US immigration · Translated Documents for US Immigration: What to Prepare
