Moving to the USA

Moving to the USA

Your American dream accompanied by UTS

 

Organizing moves to/from America is one of the top strengths of your moving company UTS.

With more than 1000 locations in the United States, we guarantee that we will be where you start or where you arrive.

Each year, more than 1000 customers entrust us with their move to, from or within the United States.

America, the land of opportunity! That is what it is often called and represented as. More and more people are dreaming of emigrating and living the American dream. Not without reason, because the 50 different states combine many different cultures, nowhere else in the world are so many nationalities represented. And this is exactly what makes the USA so popular as a travel destination. Mild winters and warm, dry summers make the West Coast in particular, with cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas, one of the most attractive travel destinations in the world.

Americans themselves are often seen as fun-loving and easy-going, with hospitality and family cohesion being particularly important. "Think positive" is the motto of many Americans, which is what makes the country so interesting for immigrants and emigrants.

Due to the diversity of the different nations, communication is usually not too difficult. Of course, previous knowledge of English is helpful, but there are many local language schools that offer courses for immigrants.

Find out everything you need to know about your American dream and life after emigration.

Your contact person

uts-germany-ansprechpartner-team-christine-andriollo

Mrs. Christine Andriollo

International removals

Mail Iconmove@uts-germany.de
Telefon Icon+49 (0)69 2445049-35



Moving to the USA: additional cargo in a consolidated container

Do you want to save money? Are you flexible with your schedule?

Share the cost of shipping with other UTS customers - safe, environmentally friendly, affordable

Overseas removals by consolidated container is the clever alternative for your removal goods with a removal volume of 1 - 10 cbm (e.g. 1-room apartment).

With this type of shipping, we combine the removal goods from different customers in one consolidated container.

This service reduces both costs and CO2 for the removal company. Good for you and the environment.

Request a quote for the shipping company now

Learn more >>

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ALL TOPICS AT A GLANCE:

OUR SERVICES

  • Individual requirements
  • Individual offers
  • Pre-inspection
  • Delivery & unpacking on site
  • Dismantling, packing & loading
  • Transport by truck
  • Customs clearance
  • Storage
  • Transport insurance

Moving to the USA - Timing

An important factor: Timing

To ensure that you have your removal goods in your hands on time, it is very important to calculate the exact timing of your move.

The port of call is decisive for the duration of the shipment. The east coast with cities such as New York is usually reached within a few weeks, whereas cities such as Los Angeles on the west coast can take up to 8 weeks.

We therefore recommend that you start planning early to ensure that the process runs as smoothly as possible. Once your container has reached the desired port, our UTS partners will personally handle the transportation of your belongings to your new home so that you don't have to worry about a thing.

Transfer times USA West Coast

Export customs clearance in Bremerhaven, DE /
Hamburg, DE // 2 - 4 days
34 days at sea // San Francisco, USA
Import customs clearance in the USA
4 - 6 days
(with normal customs clearance)

Transfer times USA East Coast

Export customs clearance in Bremerhaven, DE /
Hamburg, DE // 2 - 4 days
18 days at sea // New York, USA
Import customs clearance in the USA
4 - 6 days
(with normal customs clearance)

Note: The transfer times given are only a rough guide and depend on shipping capacities, changes in customs regulations in the country of departure and destination, the current political situation in the country of departure and destination, the infrastructure of the country of departure and destination and the availability of the correct documents for customs clearance. Pay particular attention to these points when emigrating so that you can start your new American life in a relaxed manner.


Moving to the USA - Formalities

Good preparation saves time and nerves


Before you start your move to the USA, you should compile all the important documents and also have a copy translated into English (certified if necessary) - this makes the process much easier. But which documents are needed? Here is a short checklist:

  • Identity card and passport
  • International birth certificate of each family member
  • Marriage or divorce certificate
  • Custody declaration if single parent
  • Tax returns and other financial documents
  • Job application documents
  • School-leaving certificates and employment references
  • International vaccination certificate
  • Employment contract, if applicable
  • German and international driver's license
  • Visa, green card if possible

Moving to the USA - entry requirements

The Green Card


The United States Permanent Resident Card, also known as the Green Card for short, is the entry ticket to the land of opportunity: the USA. It is a type of visa which grants the holder the right of permanent residence, a work permit and the freedom to become self-employed. The green card is particularly important for employee assignments.

The difference to a visa?

The green card differs from a visa in that its holder is allowed to stay and work in the USA indefinitely; it is not affixed to the passport like any other visa, but is an independent identity document. This type of visa makes American life particularly easy for emigrants.

But how do I get a green card?

The best way to apply for a green card is if you are related to or married to a person who already has US citizenship. However, you also have a better chance if you are planning to invest on a large scale or are engaged in an activity that could benefit the USA.

If you are a German citizen, you can simply apply for a green card at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in Frankfurt. You can find more information and the requirements for an application here

For information on applying for an unlimited visa to enter the USA, please contact the US Embassy in Berlin or the American consulates in the following cities:

For information on applying for an unlimited visa to enter the USA, please contact the US Embassy in Berlin or the US consulates in the following cities: Düsseldorf Frankfurt, Munich, Leipzig and Hamburg.

If you have lived in the USA for more than five years as a green card holder, you also have the option of applying for American citizenship directly. However, we strongly recommend that you apply for a retention permit in good time so that you do not lose your German citizenship. Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Office of Administration in Cologne.

The green card lottery

If you do not meet the above requirements, there is still another way to fulfill your dream.

The US government's so-called Green Card Lottery grants residence permits to up to 55,000 people every year.

However, it takes a bit of luck, as the demand is very high. Furthermore, some conditions must also be fulfilled in advance for the green card lottery.

You can find more information about the green card lottery here

The Social Security Card


If you live in the USA, the Social Security Card with its number is an important document to prove your identity. This may be necessary, for example, when dealing with banks, insurance companies and employers.

How do I apply for a Social Security Card?

You must apply for the card when you receive your work or residence permit. This is already possible during the visa procedure. It is important that you are 18 years old (or older) and have successfully qualified for a residence permit. To apply for the Social Security Card, you can either use the DS-230 formor visit an SSA office in the USA. To find such an office, you can use the official SSA Office Locator.

You will need to provide the following documents:

  • E-passport
  • Valid residence permit, visa or I-551 entry stamp
  • International birth certificate

Note: The processing time to receive the card takes approximately 2 weeks.


Moving to the USA - Import regulations

Import regulations in the USA


In order to make your emigration and move to America as smooth and pleasant as possible, it is important that you find out about the import regulations in advance and comply with them. We have already summarized the most frequently asked questions for you.

For more information, we recommend that you take a look at the official website of the American embassy.

Foodstuffs

Our UTS experts generally recommend not transporting food in freight containers, as this can lead to unnecessary complications and delays and the associated additional costs. In any case, the American customs authorities will check the contents, which in turn can be very time-consuming and costly. You should refrain from taking food with you.

As a general rule, fresh dairy products, animal products or meat may not be imported. This also applies to transportation on passenger aircraft. Dry foods such as rice, pasta, spices or sweets can be imported without any problems. Fish or preserved cheese may also be brought in. The import regulations for fruit and vegetables are changed frequently, so we recommend that you check the website of the American embassy directly.

Drugs and medicines

In the USA, there is a general ban on bringing narcotics of all kinds, including cough medicines and sleeping pills. For all other medications, it is advisable to bring a personal doctor's certificate (in English) confirming the necessity of these medications. Please note these points before entering the country.

  • Alcohol: 1 liter
  • Cigarettes: 200
  • Cigars: 50
  • Gifts: Maximum value $100

Please note that alcohol may only be legally purchased and carried in the USA from the age of 21.

Cash

Cash, valuables or securities may be imported up to a value of $10,000. If this value is exceeded, a declaration and approval from American customs is required.

Weapons

Handguns, sporting and hunting weapons and the associated ammunition may be imported with the appropriate permit.


Moving to the USA - Moving goods

All about moving goods

When moving to the USA, there is a lot to consider when it comes to moving goods. Here you can download useful information for importing and exporting household goods to the USA: IAM Country Guides

Different types of removal goods:

Furniture & cartons

  • Due to safety regulations, it is not recommended that you pack your own boxes.
  • Since most homes and apartments in the USA have built-in wardrobes, it does not make sense to bring your own wardrobe from Germany. In addition, it is difficult to find fitters in the USA to assemble the wardrobe.
  • In most cases, there are also fitted kitchens in the apartments and houses. It is therefore not necessary to transport your own kitchen.
  • Valuable items such as jewelry should always be carried in hand luggage. If you are taking works of art or similar items with you, these will be transported in specially designed wooden containers.

Electronic devices

  • When taking electronic devices with you, please note that the voltage and frequency in the USA are different from those in Germany. Electronic devices should therefore only be taken along if they function under both voltages and frequencies (voltage USA: 110-120 volts, Germany: 230-240 volts, frequency USA: 60 Hz, frequency Germany: 50 Hz).
  • Carrying devices with a smaller battery (e.g. smartphones) is not a problem during overseas transportation. However, you should think about an adapter for chargers, for example.
  • The transportation of e-bikes may be prohibited for overseas transport due to a higher risk.
  • If you want to take batteries with you, they should not be packed in an extra container, but should remain in the respective device.
  • It is not advisable to take your television with you to the USA. The picture transmission standard is usually different to that in Germany. The type plate will provide information on this.
  • However, if you want to take your laptop or PC with you, this is not a problem. However, you should also think about an adapter here.

Food & drink

  • It is not always permitted to take tea and spices with you. It depends on the import regulations of the respective US state. If you want to be on the safe side, you should refrain from doing so.
  • Fresh food or dry food may not be brought in, but canned food in moderate quantities is permitted.
  • Be careful when bringing alcohol with you: There are so-called "dry states" in the USA where the import of alcohol is prohibited. These include Maine, Texas, Utah, Alabama and Virginia.
  • If you want to import wine into the USA, you will need specific information about the wine in question (name, winery, grape variety, date of production, time of purchase, etc.).
  • Although it is possible to bring entire collections of wine, this is not recommended due to the sometimes turbulent transportation conditions at sea and changing temperatures.
  • When importing alcohol, it must generally be declared and customs duties including a customs inspection are incurred.

Plants

  • Plants are not allowed to be imported into the USA.
  • Also prohibited are plant seeds and seedlings.

Garden & Grill Equipment

  • You can bring a charcoal grill into the USA, but you must clean it completely. You can also bring a gas grill (but not the accompanying gas tank). Please note that you will need an adapter for connections and gas tanks for your grill from Germany.
  • When bringing gardening tools, you must ensure they are meticulously clean. There should be no soil remaining on them. 
  • It is possible to bring treated wood. However, untreated wood (such as firewood) is not allowed.

If you have any further questions regarding household goods moving to the USA, your UTS expert is here to assist you!

contact now >>


MOVING TO THE USA - BRINGING PETS

Information on bringing pets to the USA

As a moving company, UTS takes care of all matters related to relocating your pet to America. This includes handling organizational aspects as well as processing administrative requirements. When planning a move with pets, thorough preparation is essential. You can find everything you need to know about moving with pets here.

The regulations for bringing animals into America depend on the specific state. Therefore, we can provide general information on the regulations at this point. Once your destination is confirmed, we will gladly inform you about the existing rules in a joint discussion. This will facilitate your personal entry and allow you to start a new chapter of your life with your beloved companion stress-free.

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MOVING TO THE USA - INSURANCE

Everything about health insurance

 

Healthcare in the United States is not only one of the best healthcare systems globally but also one of the most expensive. Generally, doctors in North America charge for treatments about twice as much as doctors in Germany or other parts of Europe. However, since 2010, thanks to former President Obama, there has been a public health insurance system. According to current law, everyone is now required and entitled to have health insurance. This also means that no one can be denied insurance anymore.

Once you've successfully completed your move to America, we recommend registering with a family doctor, as most Americans do. This doctor will then serve as your primary care physician for you and your family. Be sure to schedule an appointment before your visit to save time and hassle. In case of emergencies, you can of course visit the practice without an appointment if it's urgent. In most cases, it's advisable to see your family doctor first rather than going to the emergency room, as the costs can be much higher in the ER than with a regular doctor.

To avoid any unexpected costs, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the local circumstances beforehand. Generally, you'll be required to pay for the treatment upfront. After treatment, you can submit a claim to your health insurance company, which will then reimburse you for the costs.

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To gain your own understanding of the various providers, we recommend taking a look at the healthcare page. Most of the providers are listed there and it is possible to compare the different offers.

Good to know: Every year, both Americans and immigrants have the opportunity to purchase insurance. However, this occurs during a specific enrollment period, which you should inform yourself about beforehand. If you miss this deadline, monthly fees will be deducted from your income statement for every month you spent without health insurance.


MOVING TO THE USA - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions


Below, we have compiled some of the most common questions regarding formalities when moving to the USA for you. For further information, your UTS relocation manager is always available to assist you personally.

Before embarking on your journey to the USA, it's crucial to deregister from the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) in your municipality. You will need the deregistration confirmation on various occasions, such as when applying for a new passport. However, the deregistration confirmation is not relevant for registering with the residents' registration office in the United States, as there is no obligation to register there.

No, there is no obligation to register in the United States.

The import regulations in the USA are quite complex. The specific regulations depend on the individual cities or the duration of stay. Therefore, no specific details can generally be provided. We recommend speaking with one of our qualified UTS representatives to provide you with tailored information and advice. You can find general import regulations in the "Import Regulations USA" section.

Yes, this is valid for German citizens for up to 90 days.

No, there is no health insurance requirement in the USA.

Yes, however, it is only valid for one year after arrival, so it should be exchanged locally.



MOVING TO THE USA - JOB MARKET

"Time is money" - Working in the land of unlimited opportunities


The United States of America is the largest economy in the world, and for good reason. Not only does the USA have a good infrastructure, but it also achieves extremely high productivity. Additionally, the USA has many naturally occurring resources, such as valuable minerals and fertile soils. The moderate climate favors this. Despite some economic difficulties in recent years, the situation has improved somewhat. Many people still have the desire to live and work in the USA long term. As there are quite a few things to consider as an immigrant, we, as the UTS Germany relocation company, have provided some of the most important aspects regarding employment in the USA for you:

Most of them work around 40 hours a week, similar to here in Germany. However, overtime is considered normal.

In some companies, employees in higher ranks are even expected to work some overtime. There is also hardly any time for vacation: in the USA, employees are only entitled to 2 weeks paid vacation!

True to the motto "time is money", people are reluctant to take a break from work for leisure activities. The majority of Americans are always friendly and courteous, but the corporate culture tends to be formal, businesslike and profit-oriented.

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There are a large number of jobs in the USA, and trained personnel in particular are in high demand in many sectors. Nurses, tradespeople, electricians and engineers in particular have a relatively good chance of finding a suitable job. The IT sector is also highly developed and promising in the United States, and demand in this sector is also increasing. Experienced workers in the service sector are also in high demand, but a good command of English is a must. If this is not the case, you may encounter difficulties when looking for a job in the USA. It is therefore advisable to improve your English skills before moving to the USA. In Germany, too, there is now a wide range of language schools that offer tailor-made language courses for all age groups. Our team will be happy to assist you with such matters.


Moving to the USA - Company formation

Company formation in the United States
Which sources are there?
  • One possible source for market analysis is Census Business Builder (CBB) or BEA Industry Facts.
  • A business plan is important for optimal management and successful business operations. The U.S. Small Business Administration website has a helpful guide to writing the plan.
  • The IRS (Internal Revenue Services) is your point of contact to apply for the Employer Identification Number. The number is required for various things, including opening a bank account, making tax payments, etc.
What else should be considered?
  • A good company location is particularly important. It influences many factors, such as the costs incurred.
  • The choice of legal forms: In the USA, future company founders must decide on a legal form. You can choose between LCC, Corporation, Partnership and Sole Proprietorship.
  • To register your company, you must contact the tax authorities. Both a tax number and an operating license must be applied for. A license to sell and a sales tax permit must also be requested if you sell products in the future.

The costs incurred also depend on the federal state. In addition, the respective industry and the business plan are relevant influencing factors. Fees for bureaucratic matters are usually cheaper than in Germany. Tip: Florida, Nevada and Delaware are among the states where corporate taxes are inexpensive or where setting up a company is straightforward.


Moving to the USA - Opening an account

Opening a bank account in the United States


Opening a US bank account is particularly useful for a longer stay in the USA. This allows you to reduce fees for credit cards and transfers abroad. There is a large selection of banks in America. There are four national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, Wells Fargo), ten major regional banks and over 5,000 local institutions. We recommend that you open your first account with a national bank. The number of branches is usually larger than at smaller banks and the employees often have experience in advising foreign customers.

Important documents for opening an account
  • Proof of identity (driver's license, passport, identity card)
  • Residence permit
  • Proof of address (no post office boxes)
  • Social Security Number

The amount of the account maintenance fees depends on the bank where you open the account. On average, you can expect to pay 10 to 15 dollars per month.


Moving to the USA - Education system

Education system in the United States


If you are emigrating with children, it makes sense to take a look at the education system. As a relocation company, we at UTS have put together an overview for you.

From preschool to college

School is compulsory in the USA, just like in Germany. Depending on the location, this begins between the ages of 5 and 8 and ends at the age of 16 to 18.

Preeschool for children aged 3 - 4 years:

In contrast to daycare centers, preschools also offer educational opportunities for the youngest children. A visit to a preschool is particularly suitable for children who speak little or no English.

Kindergarten (1st grade of elementary school):

Although the name may sound confusing in German, the "kindergarten" is the first class of elementary school. The lessons are taught by qualified teachers and are based on a curriculum. Note: You do not have to pay any fees for kindergarten. In addition, attendance is only compulsory in 15 federal states. The age of entry varies depending on where you live.

Elementary School/Primary School:

This is the actual elementary school as we know it in Germany. In this type of school, children also receive grades for their performance for the first time. Depending on where they live, this type of school is attended for 4, 5, 6 or 8 years.

Middle school/junior high school (secondary school):

These types of schools can be described as secondary schools. However, junior high schools and middle schools differ from each other. In the junior high, lessons are more performance-oriented, whereas in the middle school the focus is on social skills.

High school:

High school begins with the 9th or 10th grade and ends after the 12th grade. After graduation, graduates can either go straight into work or continue their education at college or university.

Registration at the new school

To register your child at the new school, you must contact the school district in your place of residence. They will assign the children to the different schools.

To register, you will need documents such as the child's passport or birth certificate, proof of address, immunization record, medical certificates (e.g. tuberculosis test) and, if applicable, the Social Security Card.


Moving to the USA - Tax system

The American tax system


The American tax system is divided into different levels and is therefore relatively complex.

In contrast to Germany, you will have to calculate the taxes due yourself when you complete your tax return after moving to the USA. It should be noted that the American tax system is spread across different levels such as the federal government, individual states, municipalities and districts and is therefore relatively complex. It is therefore not uncommon for tax returns to be filed at several levels at the same time to avoid double tax liability. For this reason, you should contact one of our employees, especially during your first few weeks in the USA, in order to be as well prepared as possible. UTS will be happy to help you.

Every person is subject to US income tax if the following criteria are met:

  • US citizen or GreenCard holder
  • Permanent residence in the United States
  • US citizen or GreenCard holder living abroad and receiving income there
  • Positive substantial presence test

The tax-free amounts are automatically adjusted to the inflation rate every year. The respective age and marital status are also decisive factors.

Further information can be found here.


Moving to the USA - Retirement

Retirement in the USA


Emigrating to America as a pensioner? A good idea that UTS can help you with. We have provided you with some tips and important information on this topic.

Why the South is particularly popular

One of the main reasons to move to America is the great weather. The temperatures are mild all year round, the sea is within easy reach in some states and offers a great relaxation factor. Ideal for turning your back on the bad weather in Germany.

Florida in particular is very popular with retirees. Some places in Florida are specially adapted to the living conditions of senior citizens and therefore offer a good quality of life. Popular places include Cape Coral, Naples and Palm Beach. In addition to Florida, Arizona, California, Nevada, North Carolina and Texas are also ideal places to enjoy your retirement. However, it should be noted that living in some regions is very expensive. This is especially true for real estate and land. For this reason, financial reserves are important.

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Information on taxes

As a pensioner you have to pay taxes in America. Where you are liable to pay tax depends on the length of your stay. For example, if you spend most of your time in Germany and only a few months in America, you are also liable to pay tax in Germany. The following applies to America: If you stay 183 days a year (or more) and receive your pension from another country, limited income tax liability applies. The provisions of the double taxation agreement determine which country has the right of taxation.

Pension payment to US account or German account?

Both options are possible. Please note: If you have a US account and want your pension payments to be transferred to this account, you will incur additional costs. These include fees for the transfer and for converting the currency. The costs amount to up to 5% of the transfer amount. For this reason, a German account is recommended for pension payments in the US.

Would you like individual advice on this topic?

We look forward to hearing from you.


Moving to the USA - Rental prices

Rental prices in the USA

Living on American soil can be expensive

 

In recent years, we have seen a steady rise in real estate prices in the US. The real estate crisis is long over and demand is rising sharply, especially in metropolitan regions such as California, Florida and New York. You should therefore find out which states and cities have the lowest rental prices before you move, as there are of course cheaper regions that do not always have such good connections to the workplace.

Cities such as Cleveland, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Kansas City are currently particularly affordable. Detroit has also become increasingly attractive for house hunters in recent years. In these regions, purchase prices for condominiums are particularly low (around 100,000-150,000 euros). Prices in Manhattan and San Francisco, on the other hand, have reached dizzying heights. A condominium in San Francisco can cost around 600,000 euros. Rental prices of around 3,000 euros per month are also anything but cheap. Los Angeles, on the other hand, is slightly cheaper, but you still have to expect to pay around 500,000 euros there too.

Here's a little tip: Americans prefer to buy real estate rather than rent it. As a result, renting in the USA is much more expensive than in Germany. So you should think carefully about whether you might prefer to buy in the long term.

Incidentally, lettings are not organized by tenants, but by estate agents who take care of the entire process. As in Germany, estate agents charge a commission, but this is usually higher. Often such a commission amounts to 1-3 months' rent, which should not go unnoticed, as the costs can quickly add up.

Average rental prices
in Miami

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 2,670€
  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 1,930€
  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 5,030€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 3,410€

Average rental prices
in New York

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 3,930€
  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 2,700€
  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 7,740€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 4,130€

Average rental prices
in San Francisco

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 3,000€

  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 2,540€

  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 5,490€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 4,630€

Average rental prices
in Los Angeles

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 2,340€

  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 1,960€

  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 4,390€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 3,530€

Average rental prices
in Chicago

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 2,200€

  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 1,440€

  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 4,220€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 2,830€

Average rental prices
in Washington DC

  • 1-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 2,420€

  • 1-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 1,970€

  • 3-room flat
    in the city center: approx. 5,170€
  • 3-room flat
    outside the city center: approx. 3,590€

Your own four walls

In search of a suitable home of your own

The search for accommodation starts on the Internet. There are many websites that can help you find suitable accommodation. There you can easily compare different offers and price ranges. Advertisements in local newspapers can also be a good place to start, as a large number of offers are listed there every week, so you could strike it lucky.

Of course, as a moving company from UTS Germany, we also support you in your search for accommodation in the USA. That's why we offer customized relocation services and work with local realtors to make the process easier and provide helpful tips and information. This way, we make your move easier and you arrive at your new American home faster. Get in touch with us!

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Moving to the USA - Cost of living

Cost of living

How much should I expect to pay?


In general, the cost of living depends greatly on the individual regions and states. In suburbs and outlying areas, but also in rural areas in particular, the cost of food and other goods is naturally lower than in metropolitan areas.

The level of taxes is also regulated by the individual American states, which means that general prices can vary greatly. There are some differences in income tax and VAT in particular.


Moving to the USA - Transportation

Taking your own car or motorcycle with you - what you need to know


The U.S. Department of Transportation is an important point of contact. Here you can obtain information about the possible import and registration of your car or motorcycle. You should also note that any modifications may be necessary before entering the country so that you can continue to use your vehicle in the USA.

A valid driver's license is very important, as most people carry their driver's license with them like an identity card, as all important information is also entered there.

Driving license in the USA

If you already have a valid driver's license and want to drive in the USA, you should exchange it for an American driver's license as soon as you arrive.

This is because a German driving license, as well as an international one, is only valid for a maximum of one year in the USA. After that, anyone who wishes to continue driving must complete a new driving test on site.

However, only those who have a residence permit and meet all the requirements for possession may apply for an American driver's license.

The fees for an American driver's license are known to be much higher than in Germany. However, the exact price varies from state to state. As a moving company and your UTS moving expert, we will be happy to assist you with these matters.

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