How and when should I arrange for relocation services?
A AND B MOVING is able to process shipment information extremely quickly but would prefer a window of about 4 to 6 weeks prior to the relocation date to allow us to schedule an in home visual estimate, prepare an initial quotation and allow additional time to pre-plan the move management of your shipment.
What is an in-house estimate?
The in-house estimate is a walkthrough of your home, by a A AND B MOVING experienced Visual Estimator who will estimate the weight and volume of what will be moved. The in-house estimate gives us the opportunity to recommend the services, best suited to your specific needs. Additionally, it provides the opportunity to fully explain the international logistics involved in moving your possessions overseas.
What am I as a shipper responsible for during the moving process?
Your A AND B MOVING Consultant can provide you with the general guidelines regarding entry requirements and will be able to answer any questions you may have; however you should contact your local consulate or the embassy in Washington D.C. to verify all of the requirements.
Additionally, you should read the inventory form carefully, and ask your A AND B MOVING Consultant to explain anything you don’t understand. Also, please ensure that no prohibited items are packed.
How can I determine the taxes for which I will be responsible for?
Your A AND B MOVING Consultant will provide general guidelines regarding duties and taxes. However, household goods and personal effects are allowed to enter most countries without significant duties or taxes. Official information can be obtained by contacting the Consulate or Embassy of the destination country.
Are there items I cannot bring with me?
Your A AND B MOVING Project Manager will supply you with customs regulations for your destination country. This customs information page will list certain items that are restricted or prohibited by your destination country.
What mode of service will Universe Express use to transport my shipment?
A AND B MOVING provides international household relocation services utilizing lift vans, steamship containers and air freight boxes. Lift vans are large wooden shipping crates that can be handled with a forklift. We expertly prepare and pack these wooden crates so as to reduce the possibility of damage. Steamship containers (steel ocean containers) come in a few sizes that we will match to your specific need. Containers have a capacity of approximately 1100 cubic feet to 2400 cubic feet. Airfreight service usually consists of smaller or more time sensitive shipments.
How is my shipment packed?
Your household goods are carefully wrapped, padded and packed; and each piece of furniture is wrapped completely in protective materials.
Can I pack some of my items myself?
Yes, however please keep in mind that packed by owner shipments or “PBO’s” can not be fully insured. A AND B MOVING recommends that if you do wish to organize certain items, leave the packed boxes unsealed for our crew to inspect the contents and their condition and make the proper entry on the packing inventory.
What insurance services does Universe Express provide?
A AND B MOVING has established a select offering of insurance plans so as to be diverse enough to provide coverage to each of the transferees who use our services.
Full Replacement Value Coverage - You can purchase insurance coverage for the full value of your belongings which includes protection for any damage incurred during shipping, but to qualify for the coverage, Universe Express must professionally pack and unpack the goods at both points. Contents should be insured at their replacement value. This service is available with or without a deductible.
Released Value Coverage – Released value means that in opting for no insurance coverage you receive the base coverage provided for in maritime law. This provision is currently $0.30 per pound per article.
Extensions – An extension is an addition to the base coverage that will cover mechanical and electrical derangement, pairs and sets or mold and mildew. A AND B MOVING can provide these coverage’s for a nominal charge. Some international forwarders cannot or do not extend these types of coverage for your shipment.
Your A AND B MOVING Insurance Specialist can provide additional assistance in selecting an appropriate insurance service for your shipment.
Why should I buy insurance when my goods are packed professionally?
A AND B MOVING has a very low claims ratio. However insurance provides peace of mind when you consider that your international household goods shipment will travel a great distance, be exposed to multiple weather conditions and can be handled in a variety a different methods depending upon destination.
Can Universe Express provide storage for my household goods?
A AND B MOVING can provide secure storage at both origin and destination. If your travels overseas are not permanent, you may choose to leave some portion of your household goods in storage. If you cannot take possession of your items overseas until a certain date, we can arrange for storage at destination until you are ready for final delivery of your household goods.
How are moving costs calculated?
Moving costs are based on total volume and / or weight of your personal belongings. Even though exact volume cannot be determined until final packing is completed, our knowledgeable visual estimators possess the necessary experience to provide an estimate that is as near as possible to the final cost.
Does Universe Express accept credit cards?
We accept any major credit card. Additionally, we accept cashier's checks or certified checks. (No personal checks or money orders accepted)
When will my household goods arrive at destination?
Some international destinations will have shorter transit times than others; however on average, delivery of a sea borne shipment is between 4 and 6 weeks; and an air freight shipment is between 1 and 2 weeks. We strive to be as flexible as possible and will work with you to provide a schedule that fits your requirements. Your A AND B MOVING Project Manager will be able to provide you with a more accurate transit schedule based upon your specific situation.
Will Universe Express ship my vehicle?
A AND B MOVING will ship vehicles to any country that allows importation. For the most part, importation of a vehicle is easy; however there are some countries that discourage importation and assign high duties and taxes. Your A AND B MOVING Consultant can provide guidance or you can contact the destination country Consulate or Embassy. Items needed to ship your vehicle include providing the original title, as well as the year, make, model, color and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the automobile.
How do I make arrangements for the family pet?
Before you make the decision to move your pet to your new country, several factors have to be considered. First, will your pet be allowed in the destination country? If so, a health or rabies certificate from your veterinarian will most likely be required. Know how long the certificate will be considered valid and if your Age and breed are factors that will impact whether or not you take your pet abroad. Discuss it with your veterinarian and consider the age, temperament and breeding. Most countries require some time in quarantine, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to one year. Check with your consulate to learn the details about quarantine and vaccinations.
|
