Your move to Panama: the stress-free step-by-step guide
From planning and costs to customs clearance, we guide you through every stage to make your move to Panama a success.
Guide to your move to Panama
- Planning your move without stress
- The big decision: bring it all or buy new?
- The moving process step by step
- What to pack and what to leave behind
- How to choose the right moving company
- Cost breakdown: what to expect?
- Customs and tax exemptions
- Delivery day: your checklist
- Frequently asked questions about your move
Planning your move without stress
Organizing an international move can seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and good planning, it can be a smooth and successful process. This guide is designed to demystify each stage, from choosing a moving company to customs clearance, allowing you to focus on the excitement of starting your new life in Panama.
“A well-planned move is the bridge between your current life and your future in Panama. We ensure you cross that bridge with complete peace of mind, knowing that your most valuable belongings are in good hands.”
The big decision: bring it all or buy new?
Before requesting quotes, you must make a strategic decision. Panama offers an excellent selection of furniture and appliance stores, so it’s not always necessary to bring everything.
📦 Bringing your belongings
Ideal if: You have furniture of high sentimental or economic value, works of art, or if the cost of replacing everything exceeds that of the move.
Consider: The logistics process, waiting time, and possible customs taxes.
🛒 Buying in Panama
Ideal if: You prefer simplicity and immediacy. You can settle into your new home quickly.
Consider: The cost of furnishing an apartment from scratch. Prices for electronics and furniture can be slightly higher than in the US or Europe.
The moving process step by step
What to pack and what to leave behind
Knowing what to include in your move will save you time, money, and problems at customs. Here is a quick guide.
✅ Pack without hesitation
- Valuable furniture and decor
- Artwork and antiques
- Books and personal items
- Clothing and kitchenware
- Sports or hobby equipment
❌ Leave or sell
- Large appliances (different voltage, 110V in Panama)
- Cars (have a separate import process)
- Plants and food products (restricted)
- Low-cost furniture (e.g., IKEA), which can be more expensive to transport than to replace
How to choose the right moving company
Choosing your logistics partner is the most important decision in the process. A good company will give you peace of mind; a bad one can turn into a nightmare. Always look for these qualities:
- Proven Experience in Panama: Don’t hire a company that has never sent a container to Panama. Experience with local customs is crucial.
- Detailed and Fixed Quote: Demand a quote that includes all possible charges: freight, packing, insurance, customs fees in Panama, and final delivery. Be wary of prices that are “too good to be true.”
- All-Risk Insurance: Ensure they offer comprehensive insurance that covers the full value of your goods in case of damage or loss.
- Good References: Ask for references from other clients who have moved to Panama. a reputable company will be happy to provide them.
Cost breakdown: what to expect?
The price of an international move varies greatly depending on volume and origin. It is mainly calculated by cubic meter (m³) or by the size of the container (20 or 40 feet).
| Cost Component | Description |
|---|---|
| 🚢 Sea Freight | The main cost of container transport from port to port. |
| 📦 Packing and Pickup | Services provided by the moving company in your country of origin. |
| ✍️ Customs Clearance | Fees for the customs agent in Panama who handles the importation. |
| 🚚 Local Delivery | Transportation from the port in Panama to your final home and unpacking. |
Cost estimation: how much does your move cost?
These are approximate price ranges for a “door-to-door” service. The final cost will depend on the exact volume, origin, and the selected company.
| Origin | 20-foot container (approx. 1-2 rooms) | 40-foot container (approx. 3-4 rooms) |
|---|---|---|
| From North America (USA/Canada) | $5,000 – $9,000 USD | $10,000 – $15,000 USD |
| From Europe (Spain/Germany) | $7,000 – $12,000 USD | $13,000 – $20,000 USD |
Customs and tax exemptions
Exemption for Household Goods (Menaje de Casa)
One of the great advantages for new residents is that you can import your used household goods tax-free. To qualify for this benefit, you must:
- Have an approved residency status.
- Prove that the goods are yours and have been used for a minimum period (usually 6 months to a year).
- Submit a detailed packing list to the National Customs Authority.
This exemption does not apply to vehicles, which have their own import process.
Delivery day: your checklist for a surprise-free reception
You have reached the final step. To ensure everything goes perfectly, follow this checklist when the moving team arrives at your new home in Panama:
- Confirm the Time: The day before, confirm the arrival time window with the local company.
- Protect Your Home: Make sure floors and wall corners are protected before they start unloading.
- Use Your Inventory: Have your packing list in hand and check off each box and piece of furniture as it comes in.
- Inspect for Damage BEFORE Signing: Check your furniture and fragile boxes for any potential damage before signing the delivery receipt. Note any issues on the document.
- Guide the Movers: Clearly indicate which room each box or piece of furniture goes into to save yourself work later.
Frequently asked questions about your move
How long does an international move to Panama take?
From the day of pickup to the final delivery, the entire process usually takes between 6 and 10 weeks, depending on the country of origin, the shipping company, and the efficiency of the customs process.
Can I include my vehicle in the moving container?
Yes, it is possible, but not always recommended. Importing a vehicle has its own requirements and a separate tax calculation. Check our guide on how to import a vehicle for more details.
Do I need to be physically in Panama when my shipment arrives?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Your presence will be necessary to sign the final customs documentation and to supervise the delivery and unpacking at your new address.
Leave the logistics to the experts
A stress-free move is the best start to your new life in Panama. We connect you with trusted companies to ensure your belongings arrive safely and efficiently.
Get a Moving Quote