Hiring the cheapest man with a Transit van out of the Yellow Pages is obviously not going to get the whole removals process off to a great start. But where do you start looking?

Finding the company
As always, shopping around for the best quote can save you money, so it's a good idea to get at least three different quotes. Make sure you hire a company that:  Is associated to an affiliated group like the British Association of Removers (BAR) or the Federation of International Removers (FIDI) as they are given independent checks before being accepted and undergo regular evaluation by the organisation. Takes at least an hour in your home surveying and finding out what your specific needs are in relation to the move. If you feel it's neccessary, you are entitled to visit the company's storage facilities and inspect them for yourself.

Organise your move
If you're moving overseas, you will have to deal with import formalities and have all the necessary documentation. It is best to have paperwork ready sooner rather than later, to avoid your goods being caught in limbo. In the months leading up to your relocation decide what's going and what's staying. You won't actually have everything boxed up until later, but it helps to 'spring clean' your house and throw away or sell unwanted items beforehand. Also, get a good idea of transit times to better plan your move. Don't forget about items you have stored in attics, basements, garages, outbuildings and even the cupboard under the stairs. These will all need to be emptied. Children. They may want to keep a few toys out to play with. Make sure you tell the removals company and they may be able to box them up at a later date. It is important to let your removals company know the size of the house you are moving into and if there is access. It is a good idea to leave the packing to the professionals who use specialist packing materials. Make an inventory of your belongings and label boxes to ensure easy unpacking the other end. Be aware of regulations and laws regarding importing goods in your destination country.

Shipping your goods
Your removals company will be able to advise you as to which method of shipping best suits your needs, but the main types of shipping used by companies are: Exclusive container – packed and locked at your home and then security-sealed and taken to the port for shipment. The pre-determined schedule means you generally know when the container will arrive. Groupage by container – You share your container with others, so the shipment is 'delayed' until the container is fully loaded and you cannot access your goods except through an agent.  LCL via a freight container – LCL means 'less than a container load' and means there is no waiting as with groupage.

Insurance
Done by experienced professionals, there should be no reason why your goods get damaged. But, as it's better to be safe than sorry, getting insurance is a good idea and protects you against breakages at the hands of unskilled port handlers and goods that may get lost en route. There are some good insurance deals available, and most shipping companies offer their own insurance, which can save a lot of time.

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For further information:
British Association of Removers (BAR) 
Federation of International Removers (FIDI)

Article published in August 2006