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1. WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS COMPANIES?
It is never too early to make a start. In an ideal world we would recommend you commence your search for a specialist international mover two to three months in advance, to allow yourself sufficient time to obtain competitive quotations, finalise your shipping and/or storage requirements and make all the necessary arrangements.
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2. HOW DO I ARRANGE A QUOTATION?
Simply click on Quote Request (or call us if you prefer on 0800 783 4418). Our home survey is free of charge and without any obligation.
One of our fully trained and experienced sales consultants will visit you to discuss when you wish to move, what you are taking with you and what you may need to store. He or she will advise on what may or may not be practical to transport, assess any special packing or delivery requirements and identify any other requirements such as parking permits, hoists or lifting equipment necessary for the safe removal of your goods.
During the visit our consultant will need to view and inventory items for removal so please try to have a clear picture in your mind of those possessions you wish to move. This includes any essentials you may wish to send or forward by air and any items you may wish to leave behind or store. He or she will also need to ascertain as much information as possible about delivery conditions at your new home overseas.
Alternatively, if time is of the essence and you know what you are taking, please complete our detailed room-by-room self-assessment or provide dimensions of the items for removal at the bottom of the form. You will also need to advise us of any problems with parking or access at your home here or overseas.
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3. HOW DO YOU CALCULATE THE REMOVAL COSTS?
Sea and road freight are calculated on the overall volume of goods for packing and shipment. Volume is expressed in cubic feet. To calculate the volume of a given item we multiply the length, breadth and height in feet, e.g. a trunk measuring 3ft x 2.5ft x 2ft = 15 cubic feet. As a guideline the removal cost from the UK to Australasia, North America or South Africa is in the region of £5-£6 per cubic foot, depending on the point of origin and final destination. This cost is based on a shipment of 200 cubic feet, therefore a 15 cubic feet trunk to New Zealand will cost in the region of £75-£90, door-to-door. By using this method you will be able to work out the approximate shipping costs and decide whether to include particular items in your consignment or replace them at destination. As a general rule the greater the overall volume for shipment the lower the rate per cubic foot, and vice versa.
Airfreight is calculated on either the actual gross weight of the consignment or the volume weight, whichever is the greater . Weight is expressed in kilograms. To calculate the volume weight of a given item we multiply the length, breadth and height in centimetres and divide by 6000 to obtain the volume weight in kilos. For household goods the volume weight generally exceeds the gross weight.
Our sales consultants are experts in accurately assessing the volume of goods for shipment, and it is generally upon this volume that the removal costs are based.
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4. WHAT DOES THE REMOVAL QUOTATION INCLUDE?
• On site export packing by our skilled professionals
• Removal to port or airport of departure
• Export customs formalities
• UK and destination port charges
• Shipment to arrival destination port or airport
• Destination customs and quarantine clearance
• Delivery to residence of normal access up to 1st floor level
• Full unpacking of furniture and removal of unwanted packing materials
Needless to say, no two moves are alike and our quotation will be tailored to your specific requirements. We will include in our quotation pack your personalised 'Move-Plan', formulated from the information gathered during your home survey.
The quotation excludes storage at origin or destination, import duties, taxes or any other sums due to government departments. For example, Goods and Services Tax where applicable, quarantine examination or steam cleaning fees, if ordered in Australia and New Zealand and Customs Dues in South Africa, which are assessed on the declared value of your shipment.
For information on destination customs formalities please click on Customs Guides . Alternatively contact your embassy or consular office.
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5. WILL I HAVE TO PAY VAT?
Removal costs are exempt from VAT if the ultimate destination is outside the EU. VAT applies at the current UK rate if you are relocating within the EU.
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6. HOW MUCH NOTICE SHOULD I GIVE TO BOOK MY REMOVAL?
The moving date can be governed by a number of factors; typically completion of a home sale, the commencement of a new job and the end of the school term, etc. Please give us as much notice as possible and, if practical, try to avoid moving during the summer recess or on a Friday - everyone's favourite!
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7. WHEN DOES ANGLO PACIFIC REQUIRE PAYMENT?
We will require a deposit of £350 with your confirmation of booking. The balance is payable upon receipt of our invoice, following packing. We accept payment by banker's draft, personal cheque, credit or debit card. Please note that payment by cheque will require bank clearance prior to shipment. All business is undertaken subject to British Association of Removers contract terms and conditions. For further information please click on terms & conditions .
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8. WHERE IS ANGLO PACIFIC LOCATED?
To download area maps indicating the location of our London, Manchester and Glasgow depots please click on Maps . Visitors are always welcome.
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9. WHO WILL BE MY CONTACT AT ANGLO PACIFIC?
From the initial quotation right through to final delivery we will assign a highly experienced and qualified move coordinator who will facilitate a smooth and successful move. At Anglo Pacific we believe strongly in personal attention.
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10. DOES ANGLO PACIFIC PACK AND COLLECT NATIONWIDE?
Anglo Pacific covers the entire UK via our London, Manchester and Glasgow depots. We can also arrange packing and collection from anywhere in Europe and shipment to almost anywhere in the world.
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11. DOES ANGLO PACIFIC OFFER A GLOBAL SERVICE?
Anglo Pacific is acknowledged as the UK's largest shipper of household effects to Australia and New Zealand and a 'significant' shipper to North America, South Africa, South East Asia and other major routes worldwide with Maersk Line, the world's largest containership shipping line.
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12. WHAT METHOD OF SHIPMENT DOES ANGLO PACIFIC RECOMMEND?
There are a number of considerations when selecting the most appropriate service for moving your home contents. The overall quantity of goods, urgency of delivery, insurance considerations, topography en route and budget all play a part in choosing the service that is right for you. As one of the largest overseas movers in Europe, Anglo Pacific obtains preferential rates and service from shipping lines and airlines to virtually any destination. We utilise our buying power carefully to negotiate the best possible rates and service for our customers and monitor all shipments from door-to-door.
SEA FREIGHT
This is the most common mode of shipment. Household goods are export packed and stowed in steel water-resistant containers. Containerisation of cargo is the key to safety. Containers travel secured in an upright position on modern purpose-built vessels. The internal height is 8ft, so even the tallest items of furniture remain upright and contents rarely shift. With rear doors that are customs-sealed, the containers are virtually pilferage-free.
Containers are generally available in 20ft (1050 cubic feet capacity - a typical 3/4 bedroom home) and 40ft (2100 cubic feet capacity) configurations on all major routes. Smaller 20ft insulated containers (850 cubic feet capacity) are also available to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and larger 45ft containers (2400 cubic feet capacity) are also available to the USA and S.E. Asia.
There are various container services to choose between:
EXCLUSIVE CONTAINER (FCL) - If you are shipping sufficient quantities we will recommend a container for your exclusive use. This is the ideal solution as the container will be loaded and sealed at your home and in your presence, delivered directly to the port of departure and shipped on board the first available vessel. Often the container can be delivered direct from the destination terminal to your new home, subject to local customs and quarantine formalities, thereby avoiding any unnecessary handling throughout the journey. This method is also known as an FCL (Full Container Load). Transit by exclusive container varies typically from 2 to 4 weeks to North America, to 5 to 7 weeks to Australasia.
This method can also apply if you are shipping a motor vehicle with your household goods where the combined volume amounts to a full container load. Using specialist equipment the car will be loaded and over-cased with your household goods.
GROUPAGE CONTAINER - The alternative to the exclusive container is the groupage container, whereby your belongings share container space with other Anglo Pacific consignments bound for the same destination, as soon as sufficient volumes are available. Groupage is a cost-effective solution for smaller shipments as you pay only for the container space utilised. As one of the largest groupage container operators in the UK we are able to guarantee frequent sailings on all major routes worldwide. Transit by groupage container varies typically from 8 to 12 weeks.
LESS THAN CONTAINER (LCL) - Consignments destined for countries not served by regular groupage container services are export packed in sturdy outer plywood cases (lift vans) and delivered to the container terminal for containerisation by the shipping line. This method is known as LCL (less than container load). As bookings can be made for a specific sailing transit times are similar to those by exclusive container.
AIR FREIGHT
Airfreight has the obvious advantage of speed and is recommended for items that need to be there without delay such as wedding gifts, computers, business clothing and tools of trade. Airfreight can be cost-effective, even for larger consignments, particularly those to inland destinations many miles from a container port. Consignments are export packed, secured in enclosed airline pallets (igloos) and transported in the cargo hold of passenger or freight aircraft. Transit time by air is typically between 7 and 14 days.
EUROPEAN REMOVALS
Sea freight services are available to many European destinations; nevertheless, certain landlocked countries may be costly to service and transit times can be poor. In this event we recommend our European road trailer service, on an exclusive or part load basis, depending on the quantity of your goods, preferred delivery date and budget. Whatever the method selected, your goods will be fully export packed to withstand the rigours of transportation. Transit time by road is typically between 7 and 14 days.
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13. WHAT ITEMS ARE PROHIBITED FROM SHIPMENT?
Certain items cannot be accepted for storage or transportation under general conditions of carriage and terms of Standard Liability. For example: food, cash, bonds, jewellery, alcohol, fireworks or other explosives, flammable gases, liquids or solids, poisons and toxins, corrosives, radioactive materials, ammunition or firearms, scuba tanks, gas cylinders, aerosol cans, butane lighters and other pressurised vessels or pornography of any description. It is also inadvisable to include perishables or liquids, which could leak in transit causing extensive damage. If you have any concerns please contact one of our sales consultants.
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14. WHAT ITEMS ARE PROHIBITED FROM IMPORTATION?
For a country by country guide on Customs regulations please click on Customs Guides . For a full list of prohibited items it is advisable to apply to the Customs authority for a ruling in the importing country or their overseas representative such as the embassy or consular office. Most countries prohibit or restrict importation of the following items:
Firearms, ammunition and explosives
Hazardous items such as fireworks, toxic or poisonous substances
Swords, sabres, daggers, spears, switchblades, hatchets
Items made from animals on the endangered species list (eg ivory)
Foodstuffs, plants, herbs & spices
Dried flowers, bulbs, seeds, pinecones, pot pourri
Soil, sand, straw & hay
Unprocessed furs, skins and hunting trophies
Alcohol
Medicines & narcotic drugs
Pornographic materials
Please note that the importation of goods packed in solid wood packing materials, for example timber cases, is prohibited in the USA.
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15. HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MOVING DAY?
It's never too early to make a start. Even though our packers are experts it's still a good idea to start sorting out the essentials well in advance. Attics, cellars, garages, sheds all need to be cleared, appliances need disconnecting and fixtures and fittings dismantling, refrigerators and freezers require defrosting and outdoor equipment thorough cleaning. We will be pleased to send you a copy of our Worldwide Moving Guide with helpful tips on advance planning and other essential information for relocating overseas; simply click on Brochure Request .
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16. DOES ANGLO PACIFIC HAVE AN OPERATING POLICY?
At Anglo Pacific our operations staff undergo continuous training and are required to work to the company's exacting operating procedures from which they may not deviate without the explicit authorisation of our senior management. Procedures cover all areas including personal attire, vehicles, communications, first aid, driving, export packing, stowage, etc. The company operates a 'no smoking' policy at its customers' homes.
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17. DOES ANGLO PACIFIC EMPLOY TRAINED EXPORT PACKERS?
The most important element of any move is the quality of export packing at the point of origin. With this in mind, our operations staff are chosen with great care and are trained to British Association of Removers Export Packing Skills, the highest industry accolade. Our packers are familiar with the very latest techniques thereby ensuring that everything, from your most delicate antique vase to your largest pieces of furniture, is transported with care.
All packing and preparation will be carried out at your home giving you the opportunity to witness the care and attention your possessions receive. Pianos, long case clocks, gilt-framed mirrors and other items of a heavy or delicate nature may require removal to our antiques and fine art unit for packing. These items are packed in specially constructed wooden outer cases, which minimise the risks of unaccustomed pressures. Each carton and case and every item of furniture is labelled and a detailed inventory is completed.
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18. DOES ANGLO PACIFIC USE QUALITY PACKING MATERIALS?
At Anglo Pacific we spare no expense in applying the finest quality, new packing materials to protect against extremes of temperature or humidity, sub-standard roads or high seas to which your possessions may be subjected en route. So your possessions can travel around the world and still arrive in perfect condition.
• Books, pictures, mirrors, wine, computers, bicycles, golf clubs, etc are packed within suitable export cartons specifically designed for the items they contain
• China, glass and ornaments are wrapped first in clean, new protective paper and placed into crockery cartons
• Sheets, blankets, pillowcases are packed into linen cartons
• Clothing that may suffer creasing in transit can be packed in upright wardrobe cartons
• Mattresses, settees and armchairs are packed into specially cushioned bags
• Carpets and rugs are rolled and wrapped in four-ply blankets
• All furniture is carefully padded and wrapped in multi-ply paper blankets
• Antique and designer furniture is further protected by corrugated card and sheet board
• Table and chair legs are protected with flexi-pads, edges with corner pads
• French polished surfaces are protected with cell-aire
• Silverware, brass and chrome are wrapped in acid-free tissue paper to prevent tarnishing
• Crystal, glass and other select fragile items are protected with bubble wrap and kushion kraft
• Chandeliers, figurines and porcelain are cushioned in polystyrene chips
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19. CAN ANGLO PACIFIC STORE MY BELONGINGS?
Many countries will require your presence to clear your goods through customs. You may therefore wish to store your household goods at our security-protected facilities prior to shipment, following which we will arrange delivery to coincide with your arrival at destination. Alternatively, we can arrange storage at destination if required.
Competitive terms are also available for long term UK storage for those items you may wish to leave at home. Our storage facilities are HM Customs approved, fully bonded and protected by 24-hour security. Facilities are also available for the storage of works of art and other high value items. You are welcome to pay a visit to inspect our facilities at any time.
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20. CAN I PROTECT MY BELONGINGS IN TRANSIT?
Every precaution is taken to protect your possessions whilst they are in our care. Nevertheless, it is advisable to protect your belongings for a sum equivalent to replacement value at destination, including the shipping costs and import duty, that may otherwise be payable. Our standard liability protection covers loss or damage in transit from packing and collection and is valid until delivery to final residence or store, whichever is sooner.
If you wish to store your goods at origin or at destination our Standard Liability protection may be extended to cover additional periods in store; please contact your move coordinator to arrange an extension. A Standard Liability valuation form and summary of cover will accompany your quotation. If you need assistance with the replacement values or completing the form please contact us.
Please note that should you decline our Standard Liability protection, we will rely upon our terms and conditions (clause 9.2) in the unforeseen event of loss or damage, however caused.
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21. AM I ENTITLED TO RECLAIM VAT ON NEW GOODS?
You are entitled to a full VAT refund on most new household purchases if you are:
• An EU resident and have been in the EU for more than 365 days in the two years before you buy the goods and are going to a final destination outside of the EU for at least 12 consecutive months.
• An overseas visitor and have not been in the EU for more than 365 days in the two years before you buy the goods and intend to leave within three months of the date you buy them for a final destination outside the EU.
If the above applies to you and you wish to reclaim VAT please ask our sales consultants for further information on the Retail Export Scheme.
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22. WHAT HAPPENS FOLLOWING SHIPMENT?
Following shipment we will immediately courier your shipping details to our accredited destination representative and forward our certificate of shipment to your next available contact address. To assist with your move we have developed a sea freight tracking system on our website that will enable you to monitor the progress of your shipment from wherever in the world you may be. Using your invoice number and consignee surname you can access our computer system 24 hours a day and thereby plan your delivery date; simply click on Shipment Tracking.
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23. WHAT HAPPENS ON ARRIVAL AT DESTINATION?
When your consignment arrives at the destination port or airport our appointed representative will contact you to arrange customs and quarantine clearance, storage (if required) and a suitable date for delivery, unpacking and reinstatement of furniture and effects in your new home. Following unpacking, used materials and any debris will be removed from your home.
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24. HOW DO I KNOW ANGLO PACIFIC'S DESTINATION AGENT IS REPUTABLE?
Through our affiliations to the prestigious International Furniture Movers Association (FIDI) and the annual vetting by Ernst & Young auditors, you are assured that our appointed destination partners conduct their business to exacting standards. Our representatives are all carefully selected to ensure continuity in service levels and in most instances our directors have visited their facilities to ensure they meet our demands. By constantly monitoring the performance of our representatives we are able to maintain a global network of the finest companies in the overseas moving industry. For further information please click on www.fidi.com.
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25. WHAT FINANCIAL PROTECTION DO I HAVE?
Anglo Pacific is a member of The British Association of Removers (BAR), which offers you the protection of the International Movers Mutual Insurance (IMMI) Advance Payment Guarantee Scheme. In the unlikely event of financial failure the BAR will appoint another member to undertake the remainder of your contract at no additional expense to you. IMMI is the only authentic scheme of its kind in the UK offering total protection against insolvency. For further information please click on www.removers.org.uk
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26. WHAT ABOUT AFTER SALES?
In the unlikely event of a claim against our Standard Liability protection, or any other matter requiring our attention you can rely on our continued commitment to act in your best interests. At Anglo Pacific we thrive on repeat business and personal recommendations and therefore have a vested interest in everything being completed to your total satisfaction.
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