Top 5 Criteria for Choosing International Moving Companies

Written By

Machaela Casey

How to Choose an International Moving Company: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the right international moving company is a critical decision that can significantly impact your relocation experience. Unlike local moves, international relocations involve complex logistics, customs regulations, and potentially longer transit times. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of evaluating and selecting a reliable international moving company that meets your specific needs.

The international moving process begins with thorough research and preparation. Start by creating a detailed inventory of items you plan to move internationally. This inventory will help moving companies provide accurate quotes and ensure you’re aware of any restrictions on items that can be transported across borders. Additionally, establish a realistic timeline for your move, considering factors like visa processing, housing arrangements, and potential delays in shipping.

Once you’ve completed your preliminary planning, it’s time to identify potential international moving companies. Seek recommendations from friends or colleagues who have completed international moves, read online reviews on multiple platforms, and check industry associations like the International Association of Movers (IAM) or the Federation of International Movers (FIDI). Create a shortlist of at least 3-5 companies to evaluate further based on their reputation, experience with your destination country, and range of services offered.

Evaluating International Moving Quotes

When requesting quotes from international moving companies, ensure you’re comparing equivalent services. International moving quotes can vary significantly based on factors like shipping method (air freight, sea freight, or a combination), volume or weight of belongings, insurance coverage, and additional services like packing, unpacking, or storage.

Request detailed, itemized quotes that clearly outline what’s included and what might incur additional charges. Be particularly attentive to potential hidden costs such as customs clearance fees, port charges, destination charges, or currency fluctuation adjustments. A transparent quote should also specify the estimated transit time and delivery window for your belongings.

Consider the payment terms offered by different companies. Reputable international movers typically require a deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due either before shipping or upon delivery. Be cautious of companies requiring full payment upfront, as this could indicate potential reliability issues or scams targeting international relocations.

Verifying Credentials and Insurance

Proper credentials and insurance are non-negotiable when selecting an international moving company. Verify that any company you’re considering holds the necessary licenses for international shipping and is registered with appropriate regulatory bodies. In the United States, this includes registration with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) for overseas moves.

Insurance coverage is particularly crucial for international relocations due to the extended handling and transportation involved. Understand the difference between basic liability coverage (which typically offers minimal protection based on weight) and full-value protection. Request details about the claims process, including timeframes and documentation requirements, should any items be damaged or lost during transit.

Additionally, inquire about the company’s experience with customs clearance in your destination country. Experienced international movers will have established relationships with customs brokers and a thorough understanding of documentation requirements, which can significantly reduce delays and complications during the clearance process.

Assessing Communication and Customer Service

Effective communication is essential throughout the international moving process. During your initial interactions with potential moving companies, evaluate their responsiveness, clarity of information, and willingness to address your questions and concerns. These early interactions often reflect how the company will handle communication throughout your move.

Request information about your dedicated point of contact during the moving process. International moves can span several weeks or months, so having a consistent, knowledgeable contact person can provide reassurance and continuity. Ask about their availability across different time zones and preferred communication methods to ensure you can reach them when needed.

Before making your final decision, request references from previous customers who completed similar international moves, particularly to your destination country. Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insights into the company’s reliability, professionalism, and how they handle unexpected challenges during the moving process.

How to Choose the Right International Moving Company: 5 Key Criteria

Moving internationally is exciting. And a bit scary. Choosing a company to move your home can be confusing and overwhelming.

There are so many companies to choose from, and all claim they are the best. So how do you choose a company to ensure that your goods not only arrive safely, but that the actual move process does not cause unnecessary stress, additional costs or worse?

Consider the following when deciding on an international moving service provider:

1. Bigger is Not Always Better

While it is important to hire an established global moving company, size and number of offices does not always equate to better international moving service. In fact, sometimes the opposite is true. The old cliché “just a number” can apply and you may end up dealing with multiple people with fragmented communication and redundancy. The ideal overseas mover will provide the right international moving services that can be tailored to your specific moving needs.

2. Ensure Your International Moving Quote Is Transparent and Inclusive

Global transportation pricing can be very complex. Be sure you understand exactly what is and is not included in your moving estimate and comparing ‘apples to apples’ between companies’ offer.

Given that pricing for international shipping is based on the weight and volume of what will be shipped, ensure estimated weights and volumes on each quote are similar,. And don’t forget to inquire about the consequences of if your shipment is larger or smaller than the estimated, once packed. Also, ask if there are any charges that will be due when your shipment arrives in the host country like during customs clearance.

3. Stick With a Mover Specialized in International Moves

International packing is very different from packing performed on a move down the street or even across the country. Be sure the moving company you choose has crews that are dedicated and experienced international packing specialists. Look to see if they can handling additional services like international car shipping or shipping pets internationally.

You will also want to make sure their customer service can handle communication despite time changes and once your are overseas.

4. Who Will Be Your Dedicated Contact During the International Moving Process, And Are They Experienced?

Entrusting the local mover in town with your shipment to another country may not be the best solution if they do not have staff experienced in moving overseas shipments internationally. Only experienced staff can guide you on what is necessary to export and import your goods from country to country. Failing to fulfill requirements can be costly and very stressful.

5. Don’t Choose Based on Price Alone

Be wary of moving prices that seem too good to be true and are significantly lower than all other moving cost estimates. These low quotes often end up costing much more in due to poor planning, lack of experience, damages resulting from subpar packing materials and methods, and hidden charges due at destination.  Often disclosed only after your goods are in possession of the mover and already in transit.

Contracting with an experienced, reputable international partner will make the transition to life in a new country the exciting adventure it should be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I choose an international moving company?
A: To choose an international moving company, start by researching companies with specific experience in your destination country and verify their credentials with organizations like the International Association of Movers. Request detailed quotes from at least three companies, ensuring they include all potential fees, then evaluate their communication responsiveness, insurance options, and reviews from previous international clients before making your final decision.

Q: What questions should I ask international moving companies before hiring?
A: When interviewing international moving companies, ask about their experience with your specific destination country, their customs clearance process, and what insurance options they offer for international shipments. Additionally, inquire about their timeline guarantees, potential hidden fees, who will handle your belongings at destination, and their procedure for handling claims if items are damaged or lost during the international move.

Q: How far in advance should I book an international moving company?
A: You should book an international moving company at least 2-3 months before your planned move date to ensure availability and allow sufficient time for planning and documentation. For moves during peak seasons (summer months and December/January), consider booking 3-4 months in advance as reputable international movers often have limited slots and shipping schedules can be affected by seasonal demand.