How to choose the right international relocation specialist

By Ian Pettey (MD Africa at Crown Relocations)
 
Relocating to another country comes with endless checklists and questions – but are you asking the right questions?
 
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right international relocation specialist for you. With so many companies out there offering similar services, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s why it’s crucial to ask the right questions before you make your final decision on who you will entrust with transporting your family’s prized possessions across the world.
 
These are some of the most important questions you should ask when you are looking for an international removal company:
 
Will you provide the most cost-effective shipping method?
Moving abroad can be an expensive process, so it is essential to find a removal company that can offer you the most cost-effective shipping method. Ask about the different options available, such as sea freight or air freight, and what their costs are for each option. The best option will not always be the speediest depending on your destination.
 
Do you offer a full door-to-door service delivery residence at the final destination?
This is often over-looked and can come as a nasty surprise when you realise you have to source and pay for getting your possessions from the arrival port to your new home. Take the time to ensure that you choose a removal company that offers a full door-to-door service delivery. This means that they will take care of everything from packing your belongings in the home you are leaving to delivering them to your new home.
 
How many years have you been in business, and do you have references?
Experience is key when it comes to moving internationally, so makes perfect sense find out how long a company has been operating and it is preferable to use one that has been in business for several years. Ask for references from previous clients to ensure that you’re choosing a reputable and reliable company.
 
Do you offer full value protection – insurance?
The reality is that anything can happen between point A and point B, which means protecting your belongings during the move is essential, so make sure that the company offers full value protection insurance. This means that if anything gets lost or damaged during the move, you’ll be fully compensated. And remember to read the small print!
 
What services do you offer other than shipping household effects?
Moving internationally involves much more than just shipping your household effects. Ask the company about other services they offer, such as pet relocation, visa assistance, finding a rental property and language training. The more help you receive, the easier the relocation will be.
 
Do you offer shipment tracking?
Knowing where your belongings are during the move can provide peace of mind. Ask if the company offers shipment tracking so that you can keep an eye on your belongings throughout the move.
 
Are there any unforeseen additional charges that could be incurred?
Make sure to ask about any additional charges that could be incurred, such as customs fees or storage fees. This will help you budget for the move more accurately. Again, read the terms and conditions carefully before entering into an agreement.
 
Do you provide storage at the destination city?
If you are not able to move into your new home right away, you may need to store your belongings temporarily. Ask if the removal company provides safe storage options at the destination city and if there are additional costs to make use of them.
 
Choosing the right international relocation specialist is crucial for a successful move abroad. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you’re choosing a reliable and reputable company that can provide you with the services you need at a price you can afford.
 
When choosing a removal company for your international move, it’s important to do your research to ensure that you’re choosing the right company for you. Here are some additional tips on how to do proper research:
 
Check online reviews: Look for reviews of the company online, such as on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a better idea of the company’s strengths and weaknesses.
 
Word of mouth: Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have moved internationally for recommendations. They may be able to recommend a company they had a positive experience with.
 
Get multiple quotes: Contact multiple removal companies to get quotes for your move. Compare the quotes and the services offered to determine which company provides the best value for your money and best meets your specific requirements.
 
Check for licenses and certifications: Make sure the removal company is licensed and certified to handle international moves. This will ensure that they have the necessary experience and expertise to handle your move.
 
Ask for a detailed contract: Make sure to ask for a detailed contract that outlines all the services included in the move, as well as any additional fees or charges that may incur. Read the contract carefully before signing to avoid any surprises later on.
 
Communication: Make sure that the company is easy to communicate with and that they respond to your queries promptly. Good communication is key to a successful move.
 
Check their insurance policies: Ask about the insurance policies that the company offers. Make sure that they provide enough coverage for your belongings and that you fully understand the terms and conditions.
 
By doing proper research, you can ensure that you choose a reputable and reliable removal company that can provide you with the services you need for a successful move abroad.