Moving to Hawaii

The move to Hawaii can be one of the most difficult ones you will ever have to make. Extensise planning should be made in order for this process to go as smoothly as possible.

Shipping is expensive and in alot of cases your only two options are sea freight and air serivices. By using a combination of services and knowing what to leave behind this process can be made much less stressful and expensive.

Shipping Options

• Baggage weight restrictions - Remember most airlines cap each bag weight at about 70lbs without an excess charge . Check your carrier for complete details and distribute heavier items across many bags. Most carry-ons are not weighed so bring heavier items onboard with you. Remember you are allowed 2 checked bags, 1 carry-on and 1 personal item per tickted passenger, take full advantage of this.
• Luggage Shippers - Shipping your luggage can be a great alternative to air-shipping items. Luggage shipments do not count towards your baggage quota for your ticket and they will deliver almost anywhere. The only requirement is that the items be packed in a suitcase or bag.(No boxes or containers) Time out your shipment to arrive one day after you do. Most shippers also offer extensive insurance.
• Small heavy items - Keeping baggage weight down is imperative. Seperate small heavy items and ship them in a USPS flat rate box.
• Large shipments - You will need to freight all large shipments by boat or air freight. This companies usually charge per cubic foot and have a minimum. Additionally your items will most likely need to be crated or packaged to certain guidelines they can be loaded. Most discount shippers will also not provide delivery from port to your residence.
• Shipping Vehicles - Vehicles cost anywhere between $700 to $1500 to ship from the mainland depending on size and type. Almost all companies will not let you pack any items in your vehicle.

Leaving it Behind

• Replacing furniture - Leaving furniture behind is a good financial decision. If its not worth the shipping cost you can easily replace it once in the islands. A large amount of furniture retailers are found throughout Hawaii and the many hotels often sell off old furniture at extremely discounted prices. People leaving the islands for good will often sell of everything all at once at great prices.
• Bring limited cold weather items - Although it can get chilly in Hawaii (60 degrees at the absolute worst) you really wont need too many of these items. This includes socks.
• Value Vs Shipping - Is it going to be cheaper to replace the item then ship it. If the item has no significant sentimental value you might be better off buying a new one.
• Storage - Storage is always an option but per sq foot its some of the most expensive in the nation. Avoid storing items unless absolutely necessary

• Oahu
• Maui
• Kauai
• Big Island

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