How To Choose an International Moving Company
If you’re planning on moving overseas it’s important to find a reliable overseas shipping company, but that’s often easier said than done.
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With decades of overseas moving experience, we will guide you through the processing and show you what to look for and what you should avoid.
Here are a few quick tips to get you started:
- Investigate moving companies NYC from several angles
- Review each company’s website and note how much of the site is dedicated to information on international shipping versus local moving.
- Request referrals from previous customers as well as U.N. Organizations and fortune 500 companies (for corporate relocations)
- Visit each company’s main office to evaluate how they function first-hand
- Request a tour of their facility
Credentials
When you’re looking for an overseas shipping company is it very important to choose one that possesses certain licensures. They should be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC)—which means they are a licensed international relocation organization, capable of booking directly with steam ship lines and agents worldwide as well as locally. Each company that applies for a license through the FMC is investigated and must set a large bond—once licensed, they are government-regulated. Companies should also be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which regulates those involved in transportation via large trucks or buses in an effort to reduce accidents and property loss.
Specializing in Overseas Shipping
It is important to use a moving company that specializes in overseas shipping, not just local or long-distance moves. There are some long distance moving companies NYC that aren’t equipped for an overseas move. You’ll find that many local moving companies offer international services, but it is best to only consider companies whose primary purpose is to perform overseas shipping services. A company that primarily handles international moves will be properly staffed, trained, and licensed to transport your goods overseas safely and securely. Be wary of companies that will offer you anything simply to get your business.
Budget Savvy vs. Bargain Hunting
Budget is often a top priority for those moving overseas. It is important to find a company that offers the services you need while also working within your budget. Keep in mind, some companies offer less expensive services because they are less experienced or don’t have the proper resources. It is better to trim down your shipment and work with a reputable, licensed company than to ship with an unreliable, but cheaper company that will not be able to see your goods safely to your new residence.
To compare international shipping rates we suggest choosing the 3 top companies on your list and comparing them service-for-service. You can do this by comparing the costs of the exact same shipping services for the exact same volumes. Make sure packing is included in the rates provided, not billed additionally. Check to make sure each company’s rates are calculated by the cubic foot when shipping by ocean and by kilogram if shipping by air.
Affiliations are Important
One of the last things you should look into is what companies and organizations the overseas shipping companies you’re considering are affiliated with. A knowledgeable company will want to remain current on industry standards, technology and trends. Their affiliations are a direct reflection of their characters and levels of professionalism.
You Are the Company You Keep
Finally, you may want to look into what other companies and organizations the international relocation companies you are considering are affiliated with and what associations they currently belong to. You certainly want a company that is recognizable and well-connected. The companies, organizations and associations with which they have a relationship or membership with are a reflection of the international relocation company’s character and level of professionalism.
Several examples of such affiliations may be:
- Employee Relocation Council/Worldwide ERC®
- Foreign Commerce Club of New York
- IAM (International Association of Movers)
- NY/NJ Foreign Freight Forwarders & Brokers Association Inc.
- YP 25 (Young International Movers)
