The Ultimate Guide to Cargo & Moving from UAE to Pakistan (2025)
Published on December 5, 2025
Introduction: The Journey Home
Leaving the UAE is an emotional journey, but dealing with Pakistan Customs shouldn't add to the stress. Every year, thousands of Pakistani expatriates make the move back home from Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. The route from the UAE to Karachi and Lahore is well-trodden, but it is filled with logistical pitfalls—from unpredictable delays at Jebel Ali to the very real risk of customs scams at Port Qasim.
This guide is your "street-smart" companion for this journey. We cut through the sales promises to tell you the reality of shipping timelines, the true costs per kg, and how to protect your valuables from damage and deception.
Sea Cargo vs. Air Cargo: What’s the Real Cost & Timeline?
Your two main options are sea and air. The choice depends entirely on your budget and urgency.
- Sea Cargo: The standard method for full household moves, heavy furniture, and non-urgent boxes.
- Air Cargo: Expensive but fast; strictly for essential items you need immediately upon arrival.
The Reality of Timelines: While many cargo companies in Deira or Sharjah will promise a 30-35 day delivery for sea cargo, the real door-to-door timeline is 45-60 days. This accounts for "consolidation delays" (waiting for the container to fill) in Dubai and customs clearance backlogs in Karachi. Never ship perishable food or urgent medicines via sea.
2025 Estimated Cargo Rates (Door-to-Door)
| Service | Price per kg (AED) | Best For | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Cargo (Household) | AED 2.50 – 3.50 | Clothes, Utensils, Furniture | 45-60 days |
| Sea Cargo (Electronics) | AED 8.00 – 15.00 | TVs, Microwaves (Rate varies by size) | 45-60 days |
| Air Cargo | AED 12.00 – 20.00 | Urgent documents, small gifts | 5-7 days |
Hidden Cost Warning: If you live in a high-rise tower in Dubai Marina or JLT where 3-ton trucks cannot park, movers may charge a "Building Pickup Fee" (AED 50-100). Always ask about this upfront.
The "Scrap" Scam: Why Cheap Cargo is Dangerous
Customs Duties & Transfer of Residence (TR) Explained
For returning Pakistanis, the Transfer of Residence (TR) scheme is your most important tool to save money.
- Eligibility: To qualify for duty concessions, you generally need to prove you have lived abroad for 2 years or more. Customs may check your passport entry/exit stamps to verify this.
- The "Commercial Quantity" Rule: The FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) targets people importing goods to sell. If you bring one TV, one fridge, and used furniture, you are generally safe. If you bring 5 brand-new boxed laptops, you will be flagged as a commercial importer.
- Electronics Duty: You can typically bring one of each major appliance duty-free (or with low duty) as part of a household move. However, items that are Brand New and Sealed attract heavy regulatory duties (up to 60%).
Insider Tip: "Don't Bring the Box" If you bought a new 65-inch TV in Dubai, unbox it. Use it for a week. Pack it in a plain brown box provided by the movers. An unboxed item is classified as "Used Personal Effects." A sealed box is "Commercial Import." This simple step can save you thousands of rupees in taxes.
Packing for the "Karachi to Lahore" Road Journey
If your destination is inland (Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad), your goods face a second, perilous journey after landing in Karachi.
- The Risk: The road journey from Karachi to Punjab via truck (often NLC or private carriers) is rough. Potholes and sudden braking cause the most damage during this leg.
- The Solution: Wooden Crating. For LED TVs, glass dining tables, or fragile crockery, bubble wrap is not enough. You must insist on Wooden Crating (Palletizing).
- Cost: It costs extra (approx AED 50-150 per crate), but it acts as a rigid shell that protects your valuables from being crushed by other boxes during the long road trip.
Finding Your Mover: Key Areas in the UAE
The hubs for Pakistan-specialist cargo companies are:
- Deira, Dubai: Specifically around Al Rigga and Muraqqabat.
- Sharjah Industrial Areas: The hub for heavy cargo and consolidation warehouses.
- Al Quoz, Dubai: For higher-end packing and moving services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much duty will I pay on a 55-inch TV? A: If it is brand new and sealed, you will pay a high regulatory duty based on the assessed value. If it is used/unboxed and part of a legitimate Transfer of Residence household move, it usually clears with minimal or zero duty as your primary television.
Q: Can I send my car from the UAE to Pakistan? A: It is possible but rarely financially viable. Pakistan has very high import duties on used cars, and strict age limits (usually the car must be less than 3 years old). Most expats find it cheaper to sell their car in the UAE and buy a local vehicle in Pakistan.
Q: How long does sea cargo actually take from Dubai to Lahore? A: You should budget for 50-65 days door-to-door. This includes the sea journey to Karachi (approx. 5 days sailing + 15-20 days waiting/clearing) plus the road transport to Lahore (3-5 days).
Conclusion: A Smart Move is a Safe Move
Moving your life back to Pakistan requires more than just finding the cheapest price per kilo. It requires a partner who understands the reality of Port Qasim, the nuances of FBR rules, and the importance of crating for the road to Punjab. By avoiding the "scrap rate" trap and preparing your electronics correctly, you ensure your return home is a celebration, not a hassle.
Ready to get a transparent, reliable quote? Compare Free Quotes from Vetted Pakistan Moving Specialists on MoveConnector.com Today!