There is some positive news for anyone planning an international move.
Global shipping services are continuing to recover, more routes are operating and thousands of household shipments are still moving successfully around the world every week.
However, the latest update from the British Association of Removers shows that the market is not fully back to normal.
Capacity remains tight on some routes, freight rates are still changing and congestion continues to affect ports across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
For customers, this does not mean putting an overseas move on hold. It simply means planning ahead, allowing some flexibility and choosing an experienced international removals company.
Why are shipping delays still happening?
The global shipping network is closely connected.
When vessels are delayed or rerouted in one part of the world, it can affect schedules elsewhere. Containers may arrive late, vessels may miss connections and space can quickly become limited on busy routes.
Even when services restart, it takes time to clear backlogs and return ships and containers to the right locations.
As a result, customers may still see changes to sailing dates, longer transit times or different routes.
The positive side is that shipping lines now have better contingency plans in place and are continuing to adapt their services.
Are international moves still going ahead?
Yes.
People are continuing to move from the UK to destinations including Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, and the Middle East.
Most shipments are reaching their destinations without major issues. Some may simply take longer than originally expected.
International transit times have always been estimates rather than guaranteed delivery dates, and that is particularly important in the current market.
A shipment may leave the UK on time but experience delays at a connecting port or be moved to a later vessel if capacity changes.
Will international moving costs increase?
Shipping costs can change depending on vessel space, fuel prices, insurance, port congestion and the route being used.
During periods of disruption, shipping lines may introduce additional surcharges or revise their rates at short notice.
This is why it is important to understand exactly what is included in your international removals quote.
A reputable mover should explain which costs are fixed and whether any shipping-line charges could be added later.
Be cautious of a quotation that appears much cheaper than everything else. The lowest price at the start is not always the lowest price by the end.
How to reduce the risk of delays
The best step is to start planning early.
Booking your move well in advance gives your removals company more time to secure container space and arrange the most suitable route.
You should also avoid relying on one exact delivery date. Keep important documents, medication, work equipment, chargers, clothing and children’s essentials with you rather than packing them in your main shipment.
It is also worth asking how your belongings will travel.
A dedicated container is used only for your shipment, while a shared container service combines several smaller moves heading to the same destination. The right option will depend on your budget, the size of your move and your preferred timescale.
A more positive outlook
Although the shipping market remains unsettled, the overall picture is improving.
Services are returning, carriers are adapting and international moves are continuing every day.
There may still be changes to routes, sailing dates and costs over the coming months, but careful planning can reduce the impact.
The key is to work with a company that gives realistic advice, keeps you informed and has the experience to respond when circumstances change.
Moving overseas with John Mason International
John Mason International has been helping people move abroad for more than 140 years.
Our international removals team monitors global shipping conditions and works closely with shipping lines and overseas partners to keep customers updated throughout their move.
We cannot control vessel schedules or global events, but we can help customers plan properly, understand their options and avoid unnecessary surprises.
If you are moving abroad in 2026, the message is simple: international shipping is improving, moves are still going ahead and there is no need to panic.
Just start early, stay flexible and choose an experienced international removals company.
Contact John Mason International for advice and a personalised international removals quote.