Thinking of moving overseas to Europe or further abroad like Australasia? Read our guide to International Removals courtesy of Britannia Movers International.

So you have decided to make the big move and relocate abroad, but what do you have to do to make it happen and how long does it take to organise, after all it is all your worldly belongings!

We recommend that you make your initial enquires at least 3 months before your planned move date. At this point majority of international moving companies will arrange for a free home quotation for your move and supply a tailored move plan designed specifically for you. Your company of choice will also be able to update you on the latest customs and quarantine requirements that are applicable to your destination and answer any questions that you may have, for example, can I take my wicker cane furniture?

Preparation is the key to a successful relocation no matter where your intended destination will be. What we recommend is that you have a clear picture of the items that you would like to take with you. Use it as an opportunity to de-clutter and get rid of all that old junk that’s filling up the loft or spare room. Keep in mind this is one of the most exciting times in your life but also can be one of the most frightening; your removal company will aim to ensure that your move is as stress free as possible.

Reputable removal companies will also be able to provide you with an general information pack which is country specific to your destination up to 12 months before your planned move date, enabling you to start tailoring and prioritising your packing. Planning is key to a successful move!

Is it cheaper to sell my belongings and buy new upon my arrival?

This is probably the number one question that all international removal companies are asked by people relocating abroad. A survey by Britannia revealed that 80% of all people who have decided to sell their belongings prior to relocating wish they had taken them with them. It basically comes down to the fact that it is cheaper to transport your belongings than to buy new upon arrival. The average household move to Australasia costs £3,700 door-to-door. Compare that with the value of your household contents insurance to get an idea of the expense in fitting out your new home from scratch. Bear in mind that in a new, initially strange place, it is comforting to be surrounded by familiar items; this is especially the case if you have a family. Having familiar things and favourite items will help with the transition period when arriving in a new country.

So many companies, who do I trust?

The choice is ultimately yours however there are several basic company accreditations that you should look out for in an international removal company to ensure you receive the best possible service.

At a minimum you should check whether the company is a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR) which requires all members to adhere to best practice and a code of practice approved by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI). The most professional international operations like Britannia will also have a FAIM quality standard and be part of FIDI, the Federation of International Furniture Movers and the International Association of Movers. Moving your life abroad can be like putting all your eggs in one basket, so if you’re going to entrust your family possessions make sure it’s with an experienced company happy to submit themselves to independent scrutiny and codes of conduct.

So what is included in the quote? Are there hidden charges that I need to be aware of? What should I look out for in a quote?

When you receive a quote, which will usually follow a home survey, these are the things that should be included:

• The total cost of the move depending on the service selected.
• Total volume of your move and the service that will be provided.
• Transit times for the consignment.
• Information on arrival clearance (Customs and Quarantine).
• Information on Marine Transit Insurance (Insurance is generally NOT included in the shipping quote).
• Storage costs if selected in the United Kingdom or destination country.
• All packing including boxes and packaging needed.
• Number of days to complete the packing service.

It can pay to look closely at the terms & conditions which should be supplied at the time of the quote. You will be able find information about cancellation charges or costs in relation if you decide on changing dates of packing at the last minute.

How many ways of International shipping are there and which is the best for me?

Depending on your destination that you have chosen you will find that there are five methods of transporting your goods.

Europe:

• Road Transport (Part Load): This is the most efficient method for transporting your belongings to Europe. With a part load you share the space with others heading to your destination country. This can take between 5-21 days door-to-door depending on the routes and destinations.
• Road Transport (Special Service): From packing to delivery within 48hours but once again depending on destination and your consignment size. You’ll be charged a premium rate but you will have exclusive use of the vehicle.

Worldwide:

• Full Container Service (FCL): 20” & 40”. This is the preferred method for a full household move. You will get sole use of a sea-freight container which typically comes in two sizes; 20 feet or 40 feet long. An average 3 bed property will fit comfortably in a 20” container. Transit times will depend on your destination e.g. Australasia is typically 8-10 weeks door-to-door but East coast Canada only takes 2-3 weeks.
• Groupage Service: Shared containerized service with others heading to your destination where you only pay for the volume that you use inside of the container. Ideal for someone relocating several items of furniture and personal effects. Transit time varies between 10-12 weeks depending on destination and routes involved.
• Airfreight or Fast Freight: An ideal service if you cannot live without your personal effects i.e. clothing or work tools or just don’t want to wait for sea or road transport over long distances. Airfreight takes 3-5 working days door-to-door (subject to destination clearance formalities), but can be expensive, particularly for high volumes of material.

Why does it take so long for my goods to arrive?

Freight ships move pretty slowly and have weather conditions to contend with as well as being subject to the operations of the ports they have to dock in to load and unload. A standard 3 bed property will fit into a Full Container (20 “FCL). Depending on your intended destination you should allow for 5-6 weeks transit time on the water followed by a further two weeks to clear through the formal Government channels i.e. Quarantine and Customs (based on Australasia and South Africa).

With your destination on the other side of the world or in countries with very different customs regimes, careful planning with your international removal company can help reduce the stress of the transit process.

Insurance: it is worth it?

Accidents are rare but they happen. If you wish to cover your effects in transit for loss or damage you will have to pay to do so. The policies that are on offer are generally based on a percentage of the value of the effects that you wish to cover. The policy that you decide to choose will be implemented from the day the packing crews arrive at your residence up to 14 days after your items are delivered to your residence. The reason for the overflow in time is so that you have time to inspect your worldly belongings. Keeping in mind most companies will have a basic cover in place under their terms and conditions that won’t cost any extra but will be very limited and shouldn’t be relied on as a definitive cover of your effects. Every company will offer different agreements so it is worthwhile to check the fine print, plus it’s worth noting that some companies may decline to ship your goods without marine insurance arranged.

Majority of companies we will work around your individual budget to assure your goods are kept safe.

Who is responsible for my goods at the destination country?

This is a question that we are often asked by clients that are relocating further abroad. As you know very few companies are located in both the origin country and destination country. You may wish to find a company with international partnerships with premier moving companies across the world. For example, at Britannia, while our overseas partners may be on the other side of the world, we speak every day to check standards are met and only work with FIDI registered companies.

Your contract is still with the UK company and it is their responsibility to ensure that the move goes smoothly from door to door. Your removal company should supply you with a dedicated contact and move coordinator who will be in charge of your move from start to finish, ideally in a local branch office.

Is storage an option?

If you have lots of stuff, you might elect to store some of it rather than move it or take your time at the other end as to what you want to keep when unpacking. Your chosen moving company should be able to help you with your storage requirements. Not all international moving companies have warehousing facilities available so check with your provider. For European destinations we advise storage in the UK, as delivery can take place within 24-48 hours depending on your destination. Further abroad, for destinations such as Australia or the United States, we recommend storage upon arrival. Your moving company may have negotiated preferential rates for their customers.

About Britannia Movers International

Moving is an important event in your life. Britannia Movers International will ensure your move will be as smooth and enjoyable as possible. As the biggest independent removal company in the UK, and with a passion for quality service, Britannia has the resources and the professionalism to tailor the move to your individual needs. We offer our removal and storage services nationwide, and with more than 40 offices in the UK, we can guarantee a local moving service wherever you are.

If you would like to find out further information about Britannia’s services or alternatively if you would like to request for a free home survey of your personal belongings then please visit our website www.britannia-movers.co.uk or alternatively, call 0800 622 535 to speak to one of our international sales representatives. We look forward to talking to you.