Moving House Tips

Moving overseas can be exciting, nerve-wracking and chaotic all at the same time. Here are some tips that will make an international move go smoothly.

Search for an overseas specialist remover. Sometimes companies advertise themselves as international removers when they are not. True specialists will:

  • Have a financial bond (similar to ABTA) which ensures delivery of your goods in the UK or in the destination country if the removers have financial difficulties.
  • Spend at least an hour in your home surveying your goods and discussing your requirements
  • If an overseas agent is to be used then a specialist remover should know them and their procedures personally.

Consider a mover that will assist in planning and coordination. Use a company that will research the area you are moving to and compile information on things such as housing, schools, leisure facilities and health facilities. This will make the whole transition much easier.

Choose your transit method carefully. A specialist mover will be able to advise on the best way of moving your goods depending on your requirements. There are five main methods:

  • Dedicated vehicle. Your possessions are packed and loaded into a removal truck at your home, driven to your destination and unloaded, and your possessions unpacked. This method is really only suitable for European moves.
  • Exclusive container. This is packed and loaded at your home, security sealed and taken to the port for shipment. The normal container sizes are 20ft or 40ft with cost depending on the size used and the volume packed. There will be a predetermined schedule meaning you will know exactly when your goods will arrive.
  • Groupage by container. Your belongings are loaded along with those of other people into one container. The disadvantages are that companies often delay shipment until they have a full load, you do not know exactly when you will receive your shipment, and you cannot access your goods except through an agent. This is a cheaper way of moving your goods, but the downside is that you do not have as much control.
  • LCL via a freight forwarder. LCL means Less than a Container Load. Using this method means there is no delay waiting for groupage, but you have to be careful about how items are packed because port labour, which may be handling your goods, is not skilled in stacking furniture and breakables.
  • Airfreight. This is the best way of moving your goods quickly. Cost depends on on size or weight, and there is also a risk that fragile goods will not be handled with care, perhaps leading to transit damage.

Good packing is therefore essential. If you can, leave it to the professionals who will pack every item carefully and securely, create an inventory of all the items packed, and label each of boxes accordingly.

Accidents can happen anywhere en-route. It is advisable to insure your goods from packing to final delivery. It is important to declare the true value of the goods on the inventory to prevent a reduction in any insurance claim because they are undervalued. And read the insurance small print: it may seem obvious but it is easily overlooked.

Check carefully the transit time and regulations of the destination country. Adhere to them exactly and provide all the required information in a timely manner. Any deviation will undoubtedly lead to a significant delay at the point of entry, and additional cost.

There are also many items which are not allowed to be despatched as unaccompanied luggage. Your chosen mover should give you guidance, and their packers should refuse to include any such prohibited items in the consignment. This will avoid delays or possible confiscation by the authorities.

Select the right professional mover. Use a specialist and you will be able to relax because you know you are in safe hands.