Is the quotation clear, does it clearly state what is and isn’t included?
This is of course necessary for personal budgeting purposes and financial planning.
During the home survey, did the International Consultant offer expert advice?
This can include information such as transit times and timescales, customs requirements at your new destination, how to prepare for your move and how your items will be packed. The International Consultant should also be able to answer your questions with regards to moving abroad and provide you with accurate, up to date information.
Has the company responded to your questions in a helpful and timely manner?
The responsiveness of your moving company is very important and will be throughout the entire process.
Does the company offer a financial guarantee, such as the BAR Overseas Group guarantee?
When moving abroad, you will normally be required to pay for your move in advance.
If the moving company is a member of the BAR (British Association of Removers) Overseas Group, then you will be automatically protected by the organisation’s financial guarantee scheme. It is a similar scheme to the ATOL scheme for holidays. It means that if your moving company cannot complete your move for any reason, your payment will be protected and another BAR member will complete the move.
Is the company a member of the International Moving Federation and Quality Standard, FIDI?
A key factor when deciding how to choose an international moving company is the quality of the service. All moving companies who are accredited by FIDI must pass the rigorous Quality Standard FIDI FAIM. Furthermore, companies are repeatedly checked to make sure that they comply with the standard via a quality audit every three years. Further information on FIDI can be found here: FIDI Website.
Is the company a specialist international removals company?
Overseas moving is very different to a local moving service, different packing and loading techniques are required as well as specialist export packing materials. Move Managers need to have the knowledge and expertise to handle customs requirements in countries around the world and to provide you with the right paperwork and the correct and most up to date advice for your destination country. Using a specialist company means that you will be dealing with members of staff who are highly experienced in the international moving industry.
Does the company have positive review on review sites, expat forums and on their social media sites?
The reputation of the company should be a factor when deciding how to choose an international moving company.
When you’ve collected all your research, it may be worth creating a table of pros and cons for each moving company to help with your decision.