8 Important Considerations When Working with an International Mover

It can be both intimidating and stressful to move to a new country, but it can also be thrilling and life-changing. One of the most crucial choices you’ll have to make while organizing an international relocation is selecting a suitable mover. Finding a reputable and skilled international mover can make all the difference in your moving experience, whether relocating for a job, school, or private reasons.

Professional movers are particularly needed in US states with large foreign populations like Florida. In 2021, Florida’s population reached over 21 million, with an immigrant population of about 21%. Dealing with an experienced international mover is essential to guaranteeing a seamless and effective transfer due to cultural and linguistic differences.

We’ll review some key things to remember when working with an international mover in this blog.

Credentials and Licensing

Recent data indicates that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services received complaints about moving companies from roughly 1,200 individuals during January and the start of November 2021. These complaints included damaged or missing items, delayed deliveries, and hidden fees.

Researching potential movers thoroughly and verifying their licensing and credentials is crucial to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous movers. For instance, if you are moving internationally from Florida, you can pick a mover authorized and recognized by reputable agencies like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), a non-profit that assesses companies according to their operations, and client feedback serves as an invaluable asset for customers.

Interstate movers are subject to regulation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which also keeps an online record of all licensed movers.

The International Association of Movers (IAM) and the FIDI Global Alliance have strict membership standards and are two more professional associations that international movers may join.

Insurance

International moves often involve long distances, various modes of transportation, and multiple parties, which can increase the risk of loss or damage to your possessions. Therefore, ensuring the international mover you select provides enough insurance coverage for your possessions is crucial. It entails carefully reading the mover’s insurance policy to ensure it covers every possession you’ll be shipping and that the coverage limit is adequate. The insurance policy’s coverage provisions must also be understood, as some policies might exclude specific things or occurrences, such as natural catastrophes. Additionally, if necessary, it is advised to consider getting supplemental insurance coverage or a different one to the mover’s policy.

Customs Regulations

Compliance with these standards may result in considerable delays and extra expenses because they can be complicated and differ greatly from one country to the next. You must ensure that the international mover you choose is familiar with the customs laws of both your country of birth and country of arrival. The mover must be able to advise you on what documents are needed, like import and export permissions, and help you complete any essential paperwork. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure the international mover is aware of any products that cannot be carried to your destination country. You should comprehensively understand the customs clearance procedure and any possible charges or taxes from the mover.

Packing and Loading

Choosing a mover that uses proper packing materials and techniques to prevent damage during transport is essential. It may include using sturdy, high-quality packing boxes, wrapping fragile items with protective materials, and using specialized packaging for items such as electronics or artwork. Loading also plays a critical role in safely transporting your belongings, as improper loading can lead to shifting and damage during transit. The international mover should have experienced and trained staff to handle the loading process, considering weight distribution, positioning, and securing items. When packing and loading are done correctly, it can minimize the risk of damage to your belongings, ensure efficient transportation, and give you peace of mind throughout the moving process.

Transportation Method

The chosen mode of transport can impact the total price of the move, the duration required for your things to get to your new place, and the degree of protection they receive while being transported. The most typical modes of transportation employed by global movers are

• Generally speaking, air travel is the quickest but most costly option.
• The best alternative for international moves and the most economical way to move large items is by sea, though it can be slower.
• Short-distance migrations and transportation between nearby nations can be done by land.

Storage

Ensure the international moving company you select provides secure, safe, and suitable storage facilities and services for your things. You should think about the price of storage as well as the length of time and location of the facility. Determining whether the international mover permits using your kept items during the storage duration is also essential.

Payment Terms

It is essential to understand the payment structure, including any upfront deposits, fees, and payment methods accepted. Additionally, it is advisable to confirm if there will be any hidden costs, such as customs or delivery fees, that may arise during the move. As international moves can be expensive, it is vital to ensure that payment terms are agreed upon before signing the contract to avoid surprises. It is also recommended to compare different international movers’ pricing and payment terms to ensure you get a fair and competitive price.

Communication

It’s critical to ensure the mover has open lines of communication that are reliable and consistent to keep you informed throughout the moving process. It provides regular information on the progress of your shipment, anticipated arrival dates, and any potential problems or delays. Additionally, it is important to choose a mover that can communicate effectively in your preferred language and time zone to avoid any language or cultural barriers that may impede the process.

Conclusion

Working with an international mover requires careful consideration and attention to various factors to ensure a smooth and successful relocation. It is crucial to thoroughly research potential movers, including their credentials, experience, and reviews from previous customers. Additionally, understanding the specific customs and regulations of the destination country is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly. Clear communication with the moving company and attention to insurance coverage, packing materials, and delivery timelines are also critical for a successful move. Choosing the right international mover and being prepared for relocation can alleviate stress and ensure a successful transition to a new country.