7 tips on how to choose an international mover!
How to choose an international moving company
1.Move Size
Think about which belongings you would like to take with you. Keep in mind that there are general regulations on what you can actually bring overseas. Generally speaking, the bigger your move size the more it will cost to move.
Do some research on the country you are moving to as there can also be regulations specific to that country. Should you already be talking to an international moving company, rely on them as a source of information as they have much experience in virtually every aspect of your move.
For an overview of things that you should not ship, click here
2. Get multiple quotes
Request for at least 3 quotes as this can save you up to 50% on your move. Speaking to more than one company for a particular move is an important step in securing your move for the best possible price.
Keep in mind, however, that price is not everything. You want to balance out price with quality. Which brings us to our next step.
3. Reviews
Remember to do your research. You can narrow down your choice of moving companies by looking at reviews. Don’t rely on reviews on the company’s website alone and be mindful of the review you read. Sometimes, certain reviews are not genuine. Find reviews on international movers on International-movers-reviews.com
4. Additional Services
If you want the most accurate quote from a mover, be sure to schedule a in house survey with a moving company. This is where a company representative comes into your home and assess everything that you will need to move, and asks you additional questions, and gives you a quote based on this assessment.
In this assessment you may be asked if you wish/require any additional types of services. Such services include the following:
Packing and Unpacking
Survey of items
Disassembly and reassembly
Appliance Service – movers connect and disconnect appliances such as kitchen appliances or certain electronics.
Hoisting – certain furniture are too bulky to go up the stairs or elevator or through your new doors. The moving company will sometimes have to arrange hoisting service where they bring your furniture through your window/balcony.
Vehicle move
Warehousehandling
5. Certifications
Why is it important to choose certified movers? Certified movers are required to have their licenses renewed. The renewal of licenses is done by a regulatory company and is only possible if quality of the company’s services are in check. In short – it ensures some level of quality to the company’s services. Additional reasons for choosing a certified mover:
Certified movers are able to provide insurance
They are able to provide warehouse services
They are liable for your belongings *
*make sure to read the company’s fine print in the insurance they (or a third party) provides as there might be exceptions to this. (look at 7)
6. Planning
Would you like to have your belongings by a certain time? Is this even a viable option according to the moving company? Do you need to be present at the customs office of the destination country at a certain time? What arrangements do you need to make with your new landlord in order to move in on a preferred date.
Make sure to leave as little room for error as possible to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
7. Insurance
There is not just one type of insurance. Moreover, it’s very important to understand exactly what type of insurance is right for you. For all you need to know about international moving insurance, read this article here.