International moving companies - what to expect

Now that you’ve taken the decision to actually move to the UAE and the paperwork is progressing nicely, the next thing you have to think about is getting your belongings over here.

And in many cases, it’s not just your belongings but – if you’ve a family – everyone else’s treasured‘can’t-possibly-live-without’ possessions too.

So just how do you manage to get it all across numerous bodies of water and time zones in an efficient, cost-effective manner?

Firstly, stop panicking. Then, sit down and work out exactly what you’ll be moving. You don’t even want to think about ringing round removals firms for quotes until you can give them quantities and a list of valuables which may need special packaging etc.

Your list of items will become your inventory – an incredibly valuable document when it comes to compensation in the event of loss or damage as it will inform your ‘declaration of value’ ( a piece of paper citing the total worth of your belongings and on which your insurance will be calculated).

The inventory plays a secondary role in allowing you to discard items that you really don’t need to take with you. And it pays (literally) to be brutal here as the more items and heavier the load ironically, the lighter your purse.

Work out the volume you believe your belongings will take up too. Then plan where everything will go on landing ie to your rented apartment or a storage facility (if staying in a hotel initially).

Now you can start ringing round for a removal company. You can do a web search or ask for advice on various expat forums to help you come up with a list of at least three potential companies to provide you with a quote. Prices and services between companies will range quite considerably. This is where expat forums can really help.  Personal recommendations and experiences can help you decide whether cheapest really is best or whether it’s worth spending that little bit more to ensure that Great Auntie Mabel’s heirloom makes it to Dubai safely.    

As a general rule smaller companies tend to be cheaper but may not offer as many services such as unloading boxes etc. Cheaper still are companies which offer a  service where your possessions are given space in containers whenever available. The drawback with this is it could take up to six months to get your belongings together in the UAE.

Prior to your belongings being loaded and after they’ve reached their destination, your carrier will ask you to sign a Waybill (a contract). This agrees on volume of goods and outlines removal terms and conditions such as how long the move should take and whether there’s a refund if it doesn’t go ahead. And remember, negotiating over the cost of the move isn’t out of the question!

Many companies will offer insurance as part of a package but you may also have to arrange this yourself.

Be prepared to pay a deposit upfront and the remainder once the goods touch down in the UAE. It’s a good idea to get a carrier who is registered with the FIDI (International Federation of International Movers) so you keep onside when it comes to banned materials at Dubai customs such as pornography, alcohol, drugs, guns etc (you can always get further information on this matter from the UAE embassy or consulate).

So all that’s left for us to say is “bon voyage!”