While the outcome can be rewarding, moving is never fun. It requires a lot of time, energy, and money just to haul your things from one location to the next. However, when making an overseas move from one country to another, it’s virtually impossible to accomplish alone (unless you happen to own a cargo boat or private plane). Hence you’ll need the help of a reliable and efficient international moving company to ensure that your household goods make it to their destination.
When shopping around for an international shipping firm, price can – and should – play an important factor. However, cost alone should only be a piece of the puzzle. There are many complicated factors that go into calculating an international shipping quote and any good company will make sure that you understand all of your options. In general, the best, although not always the cheapest shipping arrangement will be quicker and have the most direct route.
Finding an international freight forwarder
One of the most reliable ways to vet a shipping company is by ensuring that they are RIM (Registered International Mover) certified. This worldwide certification holds shipping companies to the highest level of professionalism while establishing universal industry standards.
Most companies should also be licensed for international transport within their respective country. For instance, if you’re shipping from the United States, freight forwarders need to be licensed and registered with the FMC, or U.S. Federal Maritime Commission.
Another resource for cross-referencing the dependability of a potential shipper is to find their ranking with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This private organization rates companies based on consumer reports with an ‘A’ being the best and an ‘F’ being the worst.
Finally, when trying to find the best shipping company, nothing beats a good old-fashioned recommendation. Talk with friends, family, and colleagues on their experiences to find out if they have someone they can refer you to.
Preparing for the move
Preparation and research are key to any successful international move. In order to get the best quote possible and have time to organize your things, international shipping firms recommend a 10 week window.
Once you’ve contacted the company for an initial consultation, they should send an agent to your home to confirm the size (volume and weight) of the load and the best options for transporting your goods. They should also be able to give you an overview of the paperwork and what to expect in the coming weeks, as well as best-practice tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Every international move is unique and exciting. Working with the best companies possible will help to make your journey overseas as easy and stress-free as possible.
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