How to Move Overseas Stress-free

Buying a property overseas is a very exciting prospect and should really be an enjoyable and stress-free experience from beginning to end, including the shipping of all personal belongings abroad. To stop the whole experience from becoming a total mental drain, shown below are the best tips from expert removers, relocators, and logistics specialists which should ensure moving overseas is carefree and fair rather than a logistical nightmare. Understanding and communication are the basis for a stress-free international move from the UK to anywhere in the world and having trained staff on hand to listen and understand the needs of the client is the bedrock of such a transition. A firm that shows a level of training to the highest standards, and put the customer first in all communications matters, with reliable testimony from past customers who have used the company, should be a good indication of the level of service provided. A truly first-class service should include assistance with packaging and storage, as well as ensuring that all freight is kept safe until the crates are set down at the other end. Only firms that go the extra mile should be considered, and customers should also be informed of the most economical and suitable method of moving.

Experts also advise that planning which items will be taken should be done six months in advance, research should also be conducted on the cost of replacing the items being left behind. And of course, having time to sell unwanted goods may help to reclaim some of the expense because many people find that household items are more expensive to buy abroad, so it may be cheaper to box it up and send rather than buying again at the other end. Having six months preparation time also gives customers the time to organise and clearout junk, and eBay and car boot sales are a great way to sell unwanted goods. The starting point, when choosing an international remover, should be confirmation of an FAIM industry accreditation of the highest level of service, and the customers research should insure that this quality of service is consistently delivered. The FAIM accreditation is the only independent quality assurance standard in the international moving industry so anything else is not worth the paper its written on. The company should also be a member of the FIDI Global alliance, as well as being a member of the British Association of Removers Overseas Group, and BAR OVERSEAS, which is covered by the I.M.M.I. Advance payment guarantee scheme to protect customers financially. Taking a car abroad is allowed if it has been owned and used for 12 months and is not up for resale. This will ensure it will be exempt from customs duty and GST. Customers will require a statement of compliance or an import permit before the car is shipped; and if the vehicle is going to the USA or Canada, there are different entry requirements. The total cost of the international move will depend on the amount of household goods and personal effects needing to be shipped. Reputable international shipping companies will offer a free home survey with no-obligation, as well as advice about associated costs. Customers should also plan travel packing dates with the removal company at least two months in advance because the outcome of getting this wrong can be a catastrophe and add substantially to the cost. The preparation and completion of transit protection should be done at least three weeks before the moving date; and all necessary documentation should also be completed and returned to the relocation coordinator a week before the move. When the moving day arrives, customers should ensure that any bags and travel documents are clearly separated from any of the items being shipped. The main thing for a stress-free move is for customers to try and relax. If the correct International removals team have been selected the crew will take the load so the hard work for the customer is at an end. Focusing on the new and exciting life that awaits is a far better way to spend mental energy rather than needlessly worrying about the move.