Making Aliyah is one of the most exciting journeys of your life, but it involves significant logistical planning. One of the first questions almost every future Oleh asks is: “What is the Aliyah shipping cost?”
The truth is, there isn’t a single flat rate. Shipping costs vary wildly depending on several key factors, from the volume of your goods to the specific insurance coverage you choose. To help you budget effectively, we’ve broken down the main components that influence the final price of moving your household to Israel.
1. Volume: The “Lift” Matters
In the shipping world, size equals money. The primary factor determining your base shipping cost is the volume of your goods, usually measured in cubic feet or cubic meters. In the industry, a shipment is often referred to as a “Lift.”
It is crucial to understand how volume is calculated. There is often a difference between the Net Volume (the actual space your items take up) and the Gross (Bruto) Volume after palletizing and crating.
- Learn more about: Net versus Bruto (or Gross) volume
- Check our guide on: Volume Estimates
2. Type of Shipment: FCL vs. LCL
Your shipping method is the second biggest cost driver. Generally, you will choose between two main options:
- FCL (Full Container Load): You get your own exclusive container (usually 20ft or 40ft). This is faster and more cost-effective for large households or for those who need a higher level of privacy and minimal handling.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Also known as consolidation. Your goods are bound to wooden platforms (pallets) and/or loaded into wooden crates (lift vans); they are loaded with other shipments into a large (40 foot) container and shipped. This is l for smaller shipments but more expensive per cubic foot , slower, and less predictable.
Not sure which one is right for your budget? Watch this short guide:
As explained in the video, FCL is faster, more predictable, and involves less handling. LCL is for those who don’t have enough furniture to fill a whole container.
- Read more details here: Types of Shipments
3. Marine Insurance
Many Olim overlook insurance when calculating their Aliyah shipping cost, but it is essential. Marine Insurance protects your belongings from the moment they are packed until they are delivered to your new home in Israel. The rate depends on the type of insurance and the deductible you choose. You can choose whether to insure based on your list and valuation or on the weight of the shipment, at $12/lb. minimum.
- Understanding the coverage: Marine Insurance
- How to handle damages: Filing a Claim
4. Customs, Duties, and Taxes
As an Oleh Chadash (new immigrant), you are entitled to significant tax benefits, allowing you to bring three shipments of household goods tax-free from any country.
Some items are not tax-free and there are fees for handling, port taxes, documentation, customs clearing, delivery,, and VAT (18%) on services rendered in Israel. Read about: Customs Clearing in Israel
5. Packing and Delivery Services
The level of service you choose also affects the price. A full “Door-to-Door” service includes professional packing at your origin, shipping, customs clearance, and delivery to your new apartment in Israel. While self-packing is an option, professional packing is safer and is required for all risk insurance, including damage and loss.
- What to expect before the move: Preparation for pickup at origin
- The final step: Preparing for Delivery
Calculating your Aliyah shipping cost requires looking at the whole picture: volume, method, insurance, and service level. At Kef International, we specialize in guiding Olim through this process transparently, ensuring no surprises.
Ready to get an accurate number? Request a Quote today, in the Form Below.
