When making an international move from London, there is a lot to think about, from arranging visas and negotiating a relocation package, to choosing schools and purchasing health insurance. See our master checklist for your relocation abroad to get started.
One thing that should be near the top of your list, is finding and securing the services of a specialist international removals company in London. Chances are that the move will involve shipping personal possessions, from furniture and cars, to valuable jewellery, artwork and clothing.
When choosing the right removals company to make the leap abroad, there are plenty of things that should be considered in making your decision.

Specialist knowledge

Every country has its own rules and regulations when it comes to what can be shipped in and what duty is payable at customs. A good international removals company will have this knowledge and be able to give tailored advice based on the final destination as to what can and can’t be shipped.
Different types of items will require different paperwork, and this needs to be in place to pass through customs. In some countries, certain items are highly restricted, so it may be better to keep precious collections in storage in the UK to ensure that they are safe. Your removals company can advise on any special restrictions for the country you are moving to, and if any particular documents will be needed to ensure a straightforward passage. Customs duties will need to be paid before items are released, so it’s best to prepare for these in advance within the moving budget.
All of this information should be discussed in advance. At Cadogan Tate, the experienced moving team will draw up a detailed Move Plan, which goes through the details of each item that needs shipping and any special circumstances relating to those items.

Care and attention

Your items are valuable and should be treated as such. A good international removals company will have specialist equipment and materials to safely pack up any item securely, to ensure that it reaches your new home in perfect condition. This includes the packing, the way it is handled during transportation and the shipping method.
In some cases, storage may be required for some items rather than shipping, and the way that items are stored is of utmost importance. Items should be protected from outside environmental factors and stored in such a way that no damage can come to them. That way your collection or personal possessions are waiting for you just as you left them.

Personal service

It can be a very stressful time, packing up life in London ready to start a new one abroad. When looking for an international removals company, make sure that you pick one where you will have a direct contact who you can get in touch with whenever you need to, to discuss the details of your move.
It is reassuring to know that you will deal with the same team every time and that your details are to hand to give you the information that you need. At Cadogan Tate, your Move Co-Ordinator is there to guide you through the process and ensure that your Move Plan is adhered to.
To find out more about how we work at Cadogan Tate, take a look at our International Moves guide.