Step 1: a survey of what you're moving
Every international move starts with a survey, because the volume of your belongings decides how they travel and what the move costs. In all BH postcodes and DT11 we do this with a free home visit. If you live further afield, you can send us short room videos or photos instead.
This is the time to mention anything special: pianos, antiques, artwork, items going into storage, or things you plan to sell or leave behind.
Step 2: your written quote and plan
You then get a written quote setting out what is included, how your goods will travel and the terms that apply. For European moves, the goods usually go by road. Worldwide moves usually go by sea in a shipping container.
We survey, plan and manage the move. European transport is carried out with trusted partner removal firms, and for worldwide moves our partner agents at the destination handle customs clearance and delivery.
Step 3: export packing
Goods going abroad travel further and are handled more, so they are packed to a higher standard than for a local move. That means sturdy cartons, export wrapping for furniture, and bespoke wooden crates for pianos, antiques, artwork and other fragile or valuable pieces.
An itemised inventory is made as everything is packed. Customs at the other end will usually want to see it.
Step 4: customs paperwork
Most countries need paperwork before they will release household goods, typically your passport, visa or residence details, the inventory and a declaration that the goods are your used personal effects. The exact forms depend on where you are going, and some items, such as alcohol, plants, food and some medicines, are restricted.
We go through the paperwork with you at the planning stage. Fiona, who runs removals with Chris, holds a BTEC in Customs Export and Import Procedures. Our moving abroad checklist covers what to sort out and when.
Step 5: transport, clearance and delivery
Your goods are loaded and travel by road or sea. On arrival, they go through customs clearance, then are delivered to your new home, unloaded and placed room by room.
If you don't have an address yet, we can keep your belongings in our containerised storage in Dorset until you are ready, then send them on.
Insurance: what you need to arrange
For goods shipped abroad, marine insurance must be arranged by you directly. 1st Choice does not provide it, and the cover we give for goods in our care doesn't replace it for the sea voyage. Make sure the policy covers the full value of your belongings, including anything crated.
Planning a move abroad from Dorset
We move people from Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and the rest of Dorset to France, Spain, Portugal and the rest of Europe, and worldwide to places such as Australia, the USA, Canada, South Africa and Dubai. See European removals and worldwide removals for more.
Get a quote or call 01202 570970.
