Last Updated: 14th October 2025
You can use and ship electrical items from the UK to the USA, but what will work will depend on a few factors. The plugs, voltage, frequency, and amps are different, but you can typically use an adapter for some small items if they are dual-voltage.
While some smaller devices, like laptops and phone chargers, may be used safely with a plug adapter if they are dual-voltage, larger appliances like fridges and ovens require more complex adaptations.
In this guide, we’ll weigh up your options when it comes to shipping large household electrical items to the USA. 1st Move International have been helping UK movers ship their household and electronic goods to the USA for over 25 years, so you know you’re in safe hands with us!
Table of Contents
Can I Use UK Electronics in the US?
Yes, you can use UK electronics in the US if your UK items are dual-voltage. This is usually marked on your device as 100–240V, 50/60Hz. However, as the UK and the US have different voltages and frequencies, not many UK electrical items are compatible.
However, they can often be safely used with an adapter. Common items with dual voltage are phone chargers, laptops, cameras, electric shavers, and toothbrushes and can be used with a Type G to Type A/B adapter.
You will need to use a voltage converter for many larger items that heat up, such as hairdryers and microwaves.
Differences Between UK and US Electrical Goods
There are some key differences between the UK and US electrical systems. They have different plugs, with the UK using Type G, with 3 rectangular prongs, and the US uses Type A or Type B, 2 flat prongs and 2 flat and 1 round.
The biggest variation is the voltage, with UK appliances operating at 230V, whereas US outlets supply only 120V. The frequency is also 10Hz higher in the US at 60Hz and 50Hz in the UK. This means that items like fridges or washing machines that rely on the UK 50Hz for timing and speed will fail to perform and break down over time.
| Feature | UK | US |
| Voltage | 230V | 120V |
| Frequency | 50Hz | 60Hz |
| Plug Type | Type G – 3 rectangular prongs | Type A – 2 flat prong or Type B – 2 flat and 1 round prong |
| Plug Adapter Needed? | Yes, to fit US outlets | Yes, you need a Type G to Type A/B adapter. Does not convert voltage |
| Voltage Converter Needed? | Yes, unless dual voltage | Yes, but not for dual-voltage items |
| Built-in Fuse in Plug? | Yes (standard 3A/13A fuse in every plug) | No (US plugs rarely have fuses) |
| Standard Socket Amperage | 13 amps | 15 amps (sometimes 20A for larger outlets) |
| Socket Shape | Rectangular and recessed | Flat or round and often flush with wall |
| Safety Shutters | Required on all sockets | Not required everywhere |
What UK Electrical Items Need a Voltage Converter in the US?
These items are single voltage in the UK, 230V, whereas the limit in the U.S is 120V. If you use an adaptor only, they will often not heat up enough or overheat and damage the mains. Unless they are dual voltage (100–240V), you must use a voltage converter for the following items:
- Hairdryers – These are typically 230V only in the UK, and there is a big risk of overheating.
- Straighteners/curling irons – Again, these are typically single voltage and can result in damaged power if running on an adapter.
- Microwaves – Microwaves are never dual voltage and require a heavy-duty step-up converter.
- Coffee machines – These have heating elements that won’t work at 120V, so they may not work at all.
- Food processors – These are often not dual-voltage, and their monitors will burn out on the wrong voltage.
For these smaller items, it’s often cost-effective to buy replacements in the US. Even with changing the plugs and using a converter, they won’t perform the best and risk overheating due to the difference in voltage and frequency.
Top Tip: If you want to bring your UK items, double-check that they are dual voltage so they will be worthwhile to bring to your new home in the US.
What Items Can I Use Without a Converter?
Items that are dual-voltage and marked 100–240V, 50/60Hz can typically be used with just an adapter, and not a converter. Common items that are dual voltage and compatible with US adapters are:
- Laptops and tablets
- Phone and tablet chargers
- Cameras and camera chargers
- Electric toothbrushes
- Some travel hairdryers, razors, and straighteners
Top Tip: You can find out if it’s dual voltage by reading the label on the plug. It should say “Input: 100–240V, 50/60Hz”.
Can I Use My UK White Goods in the US?
Yes, you can bring and use your UK white goods in the U.S, but it’s down to you to decide if it’s worth the money to convert them to the U.S electrical standard. It can be beneficial to bring your white goods if you are undergoing a full house move to the U.S. If you’re moving into a custom or newly built home in the US and installing dedicated 240V circuits during renovation, then it would make sense to keep your original items.
However, it’s important to be aware of the difference in white goods in the US. As 240V circuits aren’t commonplace in U.S homes, you will have to hire an experienced electrician to install this. You can purchase a step-up transformer to convert 120V to 230V, but the difference in frequency can sometimes affect motors, compressors, and timers. Converters are not recommended for long-term use on large items.
It’s also important to remember that if your white goods are custom-fit, they will often not match US cabinets or meet ventilation standards. Here, we delve further into the details of shipping electrical white goods to the USA.
- Fridge – Large items like fridges will need a step-up voltage converter from 120V to 230V. This isn’t ideal long-term, so you might want to look at hiring an electrician to have a 240V circuit wired. The difference in frequency may also affect the lifespan of the fridge.
- Oven – UK ovens use very high wattage, so you’ll need new wiring for your oven to work. The US also follow specific types of ventilation, so your oven may need adapting to have a hood, extractor fan, and even enlarged ducts.
- Dishwasher – You can use a step-up converter and will need plumbing adjustment,s you will more than likely need it rewired to comply with US plug standards.
- Washing Machine and Tumble Dryer – These will need dedicated 240V rewiring, but some models might suffer from the difference in frequency.
Can I Just Change UK Plugs for US Plugs?
It’s generally safe to get your UK plugs changed to US-specific ones if the electrical items’ voltage is the same as in the US, 120V. The voltage, along with frequency and amp limit, must match the US; otherwise, even with changing the plugs, your items won’t work or underperform.
Shipping Electrical Goods From the UK to the USA
You can usually bring used household goods, including electrical appliances, into the US duty-free as long as they’ve been owned and used for at least 12 months. All electrical items must still be declared to US Customs and Border Protection on arrival.
Before shipping, make sure large appliances such as fridges, ovens, and washing machines are clean, dry, and completely free from food residue or moisture to meet biosecurity standards.
When shipping larger electrical goods, use a removals company experienced in international transport. Proper packing and palletising are essential to prevent damage during transit.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Electrical Appliances From the UK to USA?
The cost of shipping electrical appliances from the UK to the USA depends on the size and quantity of items you’re sending, as well as your delivery destination. Small electrical items can often be included within a shared (groupage) container shipment, which is far cheaper than booking a full 20ft or 40ft container.
As a rough guide, sending a few boxes or small household appliances can cost between £500-£1000, while larger white goods such as fridges, ovens, or washing machines will add more depending on volume and handling requirements.
At 1st Move International, we have over 25 years of experience in shipping personal effects including large and small electrical appliances to the USA. Find out more about removals to the USA here or contact us for a free quote.
