Moving household go...
 
Notifications
Clear all

Moving household goods

 ron
(@ron)
Posts: 1
New Member
Topic starter
 

My son is moving to St. Thomas from Chicago in September and is wondering about the cost of shipping furniture etc. to the islands. We are wondering if it makes more sense to ship what he has vs. trying to buy things once he gets there. Also not sure the best way to ship things. We're talking about a bed, computer, tables and other small items. Any suggestions would be most helpful


 
Posted : June 5, 2001 7:03 pm
(@Thomas)
Posts: 1
New Member
 

Talk to your local moving company, i.e. Redball, Viking, etc. Cost depends on how much you're shipping.

It is possible to pack up your own crate, then ship yourself, which is cheaper but a lot more work.

The movers will quote on the basis of standard size lift van usually (about 3'6" x 8' x 8' or 3'6" x 8' x 4' (half size) as I recall).

Although you're closer to VI, a full size lift van from CA (for example) runs about $3000, a second for $2000, etc. It may be two thirds of that from Chicago; but you need to get a quote.

Often, it doesn't make financial sense to ship furniture unless it's especially valuable, rare, or hard to replace sentimental pieces.

--T


 
Posted : June 6, 2001 4:31 am
(@Island Girl)
Posts: 1
New Member
 

My daughter moved actually 11 months ago to St. Thomas from Texas. The shipping cost is wild. I shipped her the computer and printer and it cost me with insurance $235.00. I had her buy the bed and when my hubby and I visited the island, we bought her a frig and a stove for $750.00 which was a bargin. The computer is worth the shipping but the rest, I think if he's single, you're better off just buying the stuff in the island. You just have to bargin back and forth. I hope everything works out, OK.
Take care,
Island Girl


 
Posted : June 9, 2001 10:46 pm
(@randy)
Posts: 3
New Member
 

As for furniture- there are only a few types of wood that do well here. Teak, mahogany and bamboo or wicker. The reason being termites. The types I mentioned seem impervious to them, so it may be better to get furniture here. There are always ads in the paper "moving off island, must sell every thing" I see ads for computers, furniture, cars, books and so on. That is one way to go. Take care. Hope we see you here soon! randy


 
Posted : June 29, 2001 8:28 pm

Thinking about moving to the Virgin Islands?

The Settler's Handbook is a Indispensable Guide

The current 19th Edition, will help you explore your dream of island living. A solid reference book, it was first published in 1975. That’s 40+ years of helping people move to the Virgin Islands.

Stay up to date with news from VIMovingCenter

Sign up to receive Virgin Islands articles, updates and offers.

Advertise with Us

Tell prospective and current residents about your business. Learn More

Also Visit

USVI Books & Souvenirs

The Virgin Islands Best Guide

Official Sponsor

Copyright © 2002 – 2025 VInow.com All rights reserved..
  • Opens in a new tab
  • Opens in a new tab
Search this website Type then hit enter to search
Close Menu