How to Choose the Right Shipping Method for Your International Move

Moving abroad can be an exciting, but daunting prospect. Between packing up your belongings, finding a place to live, and making sure everything is in order for the international move, there are many things to consider. One of these considerations is choosing the right shipping method for your international move. Shipping your items overseas requires careful planning and research – from understanding what you can bring with you to deciding which company will provide the best service at a reasonable cost. In this article, we’ll explain how to choose the right shipping method so that you have peace of mind knowing all of your items will arrive safely on time, and within budget.

1. Understand the restrictions and regulations of where you’re moving: 

Different countries may have different rules regarding what can and cannot be shipped in. For example, some countries may not allow certain items, such as food or firearms, to be brought in. It’s important to understand these restrictions before deciding on a shipping method. This also means you will need to know how items are classified by the country’s customs office, as this could affect the cost of shipping. For instance, an item classified as a “luxury” by the customs office of your destination country may be subject to higher taxes and fees.

2. Decide whether you will ship via air or sea: 

The two main options for shipping items overseas are via air or sea. Air is generally faster but more expensive than sea freight, while sea freight tends to take longer but can be less costly. Depending on the size and weight of your shipment, one option may make more sense than the other. It’s important to consider how quickly you need the items to arrive versus how much you are willing to pay for expediency. Also, if you’re shipping items that are fragile or valuable, you may want to opt for air freight as it is generally more reliable and secure. For example, if you’re shipping a wedding dress, paintings, or other delicate items that can’t be re-created, air freight may be your best option.

3. Compare rates and services of different companies: 

Once you have narrowed down what type of shipping method makes sense for you (air or sea), it’s time to compare the rates and services of different international moving companies. The folks at PSS International Removals also advise that you look at their prices and the terms of service they offer such as insurance coverage, pick-up/delivery times, and customer service availability. It’s also a good idea to look into how long they’ve been in business and any reviews from previous customers. This will help ensure that you choose a company that is reliable and has experience in shipping items overseas. For example, PSS International Removals has been in business since 1979 and is the first choice for many customers when it comes to finding the right company for their international move.

4. Choose the right packaging for your items: 

International shipping can be a rough journey, so it’s important to choose the correct packaging for your items to make sure they arrive safely. Cardboard boxes are usually fine for smaller shipments, but if you’re sending heavier or more valuable items, consider using a wooden crate with foam padding to protect them against shocks and vibrations during transit. It is also important to make sure fragile items are marked appropriately on all sides of the box with “FRAGILE” stickers or labels before delivery in order to avoid any damage in transit. This will also help the shipping company to handle your items with more care and attention.

5. Factor in insurance coverage: 

When you’re shipping items overseas, it’s important to consider insurance coverage. Most international moving companies will offer some type of insurance coverage for your shipment, ranging from basic to comprehensive packages. Make sure you read the terms of the policy carefully so that you know exactly what is covered and what isn’t in case anything goes wrong during transportation. This will give you peace of mind knowing that if something were to happen, your items would be protected and reimbursed. Moreover, you may be able to purchase additional insurance depending on the company and the value of your items.

6. Make sure to get a tracking number: 

Once your items have been shipped, you may want to get a tracking number so that you can see where your shipment is at all times. This will also be helpful if something goes wrong during transit and you need to contact the shipping company for help. Many companies offer a tracking system that allows customers to monitor their shipments through an online portal, phone app, or email notifications. It’s also important to keep all documentation related to your shipment in case of any issues or inquiries with its delivery. This will make the process much simpler for both you and the company. 

7. Prepare for customs clearance: 

Depending on your destination country, you may need to go through customs clearance upon arrival of your shipment. This means that all documents related to your items must be accurately completed and submitted in order to avoid any delays or fees at customs. It’s important to check with the local embassy or consulate of your destination country beforehand in order to understand any additional requirements that you might need before shipping. This will help expedite the processing of your shipment upon its arrival, as well as save you from potentially costly delays or charges due to misunderstandings or incorrect paperwork. 

International shipping can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and research you can find an experienced company that is reliable, offers reasonable prices and insurance coverage, as well as provides tracking services for your shipment. Additionally, making sure all of your items are properly packaged with “FRAGILE” stickers or labels will help protect them from any bumps or shocks during transit. Lastly, familiarizing yourself with customs clearance requirements in advance will make the process much smoother when it comes time for delivery. Following these steps should ensure that your shipment arrives safely and on time at its destination!