Your international move to Israel, planned with care
Moving to Israel means arriving in a country of remarkable contrasts, where Mediterranean coastlines, ancient cities and cutting-edge tech hubs sit side by side. From the coastal energy of Tel Aviv to historic Jerusalem, the northern port city of Haifa and the desert calm of Be'er Sheva, each region has its own rhythm and its own practicalities for newcomers.
Israel's import customs regime is genuinely detailed, with relief tied closely to your residency status, so careful planning matters more here than in many destinations. Whether you arrive as a new immigrant (Oleh), a returning resident, a diplomat or a corporate assignee, the documentation and tax treatment differs significantly.
The single biggest factor in a smooth arrival is preparing the right paperwork before your shipment reaches Ashdod or Haifa. Our teams have coordinated moves to Israel for expat families, diplomatic missions, military-linked families and corporate relocations, and we tailor every itinerary to your circumstances. With 48 offices across 32 countries, Gosselin combines true global reach with the local knowledge that makes an arrival in Israel feel manageable rather than overwhelming.
Before the move: a few things to keep in mind
Your entry route into Israel shapes almost everything about your move, including whether your household goods qualify for tax relief. New immigrants typically travel on an Oleh pathway and receive a Teudat Oleh booklet, while corporate assignees usually enter on a B-1 work visa and returning Israelis apply for returning-resident status.
Each status carries different rights and obligations at customs, so confirm yours early. For current visa categories, eligibility and application steps, always check the official Israeli government and Ministry of Interior websites rather than relying on general guidance.
Gosselin's specialists will align your shipment timing with your status so your goods are not held at the port waiting on paperwork.
Rental demand is high in major centres such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Herzliya, and many landlords request several post-dated cheques or a guarantor. Proof of residence in Israel for at least one year, such as a rental contract, is also one of the documents customs may require, so securing housing early has a double benefit.
Opening an Israeli bank account, arranging a local mobile number and registering for municipal services are usually among the first tasks after arrival. Requirements vary by bank and municipality.
We coordinate delivery windows around your lease start date so your belongings arrive when your home is ready to receive them.
Israel operates a well-regarded national health system delivered through health funds (Kupot Holim), with eligibility linked to residency status and social-security registration. New immigrants and returning residents generally register with a health fund shortly after arrival.
Assignees and visa holders should confirm whether they need private or employer-provided international health cover during any waiting period. Rules and entitlements change, so verify current arrangements through the official National Insurance Institute and Ministry of Health resources.
Bringing essential medications and prescriptions in your accompanied luggage, rather than in your shipment, is a sensible precaution while you settle in.
Israel offers public schooling in Hebrew and Arabic, alongside a range of international, bilingual and religious schools concentrated in the larger cities. International schools in the Tel Aviv and Jerusalem areas are popular with expatriate and diplomatic families but can have waiting lists.
If you are relocating with children, apply to schools as early as possible and gather transcripts and vaccination records in advance. Curriculum options include local Israeli, international and faith-based streams.
Gosselin frequently supports family moves, and we time deliveries around the school calendar so children can settle before term begins.
Israel has a dynamic economy anchored by a world-leading technology and start-up sector, along with strong finance, life-sciences and academic fields. Many international arrivals come on employer-sponsored B-1 work visas tied to a specific role and company.
Note that B-1 work-visa holders receive no customs exemption on household goods. Duties may apply or an annually renewed bank guarantee may be lodged, so factor this into your planning. Employment rights and permit conditions are set by the authorities and change over time.
Confirm current work-permit requirements via the official government portals before you finalise your move date.
Moving to Israel with Gosselin
Overseas transport for your move to Israel
For most international moves to Israel, sea freight is the practical backbone of the shipment, with your goods entering through the ports of Ashdod or Haifa. A full container suits larger households moving in one dedicated load, while shared-container transport (known as Groupage) lets smaller volumes travel cost-effectively by sharing space with other consignments bound for the same region.
Sea freight is the most economical option for the volume most households ship, though it takes longer than air. Air cargo through Tel Aviv (TLV) is ideal for essentials and urgently needed items you cannot be without on arrival, trading higher cost for speed.
Transit times vary by route, origin and season, so request a quote for a precise schedule.
Professional packing
Professional packing is essential for a sea or air shipment to Israel, where your belongings endure handling at multiple points, container loading and the maritime journey to Ashdod or Haifa. Poorly packed goods are the leading cause of avoidable damage, which is why Gosselin's trained crews use quality, purpose-made materials for every item.
A precise English packing list without values is also a required customs document for Israel, and our teams prepare inventories to the standard the destination agent needs for clearance.
Our packing teams handle the full range of household contents, including:
WHY GOSSELIN?
Top-tier international moving services
Gosselin holds FIDI-FAIM certification; the international moving industry's gold standard, which fewer than 10% of movers worldwide qualify for, and is a member of IAM, the International Association of Movers, giving us a vetted global network and a shared standard of quality.
Our ISO 9001 certified quality management underpins every move, and our established partner network in Israel ensures your shipment is cleared and delivered by trusted local agents who know the ports of Ashdod and Haifa first-hand.
A reliable international mover shows four clear marks:
G.U.E.S.T.
Plan your move to Israel today
Getting an accurate quote for your move to Israel has never been simpler. With Gosselin's G.U.E.S.T. remote survey technology, you can book a digital pre-move assessment and record your household goods yourself, room by room, using your smartphone video. No need to schedule an in-home visit.
Our specialists review your survey and prepare a fast, personalised quote based on your actual volume, chosen services and timing. It is convenient, accurate and completely free.
The sooner you complete your survey, the sooner we can lock in the right itinerary and pricing for your arrival in Israel.
Customs clearance
Our team guides you step-by-step through all the requirements
Moving Insurance
By taking out an All-Risk insurance, you are protected from the risks of loss or damage of your goods
Professional packing
We provide full service packing and moving services for local, long-distance, and international relocations
Handyman services
Handyman support can be arranged before packing, on moving day or after delivery in your new home
Overseas or long distance shipping
There are multiple ways to transport your goods internationally: sea, air, truck, or even rail
International car shipping
Cars can be shipped overseas in a container or by roll on / roll off shipping
Art transport services
Gosselin provides high-quality art transportation for museums, galleries, institutions, collectors, and traveling exhibitions
Storage services
A safe, flexible solution for your belongings when your moving timeline doesn’t go exactly as planned
Custom crates
These crates provide optimal security for fine art, antiques, oversized furniture, motorcycles and other valuable or fragile items
Guided Survey
A guided survey led by relocation professionals to understand your household, destination and timing so your move is planned correctly from day one.
With Gosselin, your move includes:
- Eco-Friendly packing materials
- Storage service
- Flexible scheduling
- Transport insurance coverage
Client experience: relocating to Israel with Gosselin
From the very beginning, Agnieszka provided an exceptional level of service and professionalism. She was always available, responsive, and genuinely helpful, making us feel supported throughout the entire moving process. Her attention to detail and willingness to assist with every request made what could have been a stressful experience feel smooth and well organised.
The packing team was excellent as well. They worked efficiently and carefully, handling our belongings with great care and ensuring everything was properly packed and protected. We were very impressed with their professionalism, punctuality, and positive attitude.
The entire Gosselin team went above and beyond to make our move as easy and seamless as possible. Everyone we dealt with was friendly, reliable, and committed to providing a high-quality service. We truly appreciated the communication and care shown throughout the process.
Your FAQs answered
Get Your Free Moving Quote To Israel Today
Start your journey by getting a free, no-obligation quote for your move. Our team is ready to assist you with every step, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in Israel. Fill out the form below and start planning your move to Israel today.