Need An Overseas Shipping Company In California? Here’s What To Look For To Get The Best Results
A cross-country move or moving overseas is a complex process, and international moving companies in California are not all the same. It’s important to do your research before your big move so you can find the international movers that will best fit your needs.
This article discusses what to look for when researching international shipping companies in California. Read on to learn more!
Cargo Insurance
Cargo insurance is an important international moving expense to consider. When you ship your belongings overseas, cargo insurance provides coverage for lost, damaged, or stolen packages if something happens during transit.
Some international shipping companies may offer their own form of cargo insurance at a discounted price for use with them exclusively; this might be less expensive than trying to find another company’s policy separately and can give you peace of mind while your belongings are away from home.
Some international movers allow individuals to purchase supplemental cargo insurance through third parties as part of the initial move quote process – be sure not to forget about it!
Shipping Costs
Shipping international is never cheap, and when moving internationally, it can be a little more expensive than domestic rates. Keep in mind that the lowest shipping rate may not always represent the best shipping rate. It pays to shop around and read the fine print.
Be wary of moving companies that offer meager moving rates because they may offer less service or accept much less responsibility for mistakes. A company may initially lowball its quotation and fail to include a true door-to-door service. At this point, clients arrive overseas to find hundreds or even thousands of dollars worth of additional charges.
To avoid this, here are a few questions you should ask:
- Do you include packing and unpacking?
- Do port and terminal charges apply? These charges are known as Destination Terminal Handling Charges (DTHC)
- Is there a charge for stair/floor access for the delivery team?
An international moving company without workers’ compensation insurance may charge you less. However, it’s important to consider you might be liable if their uninsured worker is injured handling your luggage on your premises. Rather than taking this risk, it is better to pay slightly more.
Length of Shipment
In international moves, it is also important to know the length of shipment. The cost will vary based on how long your items take to cross international borders. International moving companies in California that have offices both domestically and internationally may offer better rates than other international movers who only ship within one country.
Tracking Your Shipment While It Is Traveling Overseas
Every international moving company is different, and the level of international service they provide will vary accordingly. It can be difficult to know exactly how far a logistics company has moved your shipment in international terms because some services stop tracking shipments after they cross their border.
This leaves you without any knowledge about delays or other problems that may arise during shipping abroad. This could cause significant financial difficulties for you as a customer if something goes wrong.
If this sounds like an issue for you, consider choosing an international moving company with reliable international systems in place to track all overseas shipments. Some companies use full GPS data at every point of your shipment’s journey around the world until the day arrives at its final destination!
Licensed and Insured Services
When choosing an international moving company in California, this is one of the most important factors. Make sure you ask if the company is bonded and insured. You can also check the company’s website for any information regarding membership and licensing.
You should look for the following licenses/accreditation from an international mover:
- FIDI – One of the most prestigious accreditations an international moving company can receive.
- AMSA – American Moving and Storage Association
- FMC – Federal Maritime Commission
- IAM – International Association of Movers
- OTI – Ocean Transport Intermediary
- DOT – Department of Transportation
- NVOCC – Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier
Reviews
Customer reviews are a great way to find the international moving company that is right for you. You can check out reviews on the companies website to figure out what people have had good experiences with before choosing an international moving company. A review provided by someone who has actually used the international mover’s services will likely be most accurate and honest.
The best providers offer excellent customer service from start to finish of your international move – helping every step along the way, including providing information about visas or other needs specific to your destination country.
Are They Part of a Freight Forwarding Network or Licensed by an Independent Federal Agency?
Some international moving companies in California are part of a freight forwarding network or licensed by an international, federal agency. This is not required for international movers to operate, but it does help ensure that they have the knowledge and resources necessary to complete your international move.
Some international moving company licensing agencies include:
- International Association Of Movers (IAM)
- American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA)
- National Association of Furniture Makers (NAFM)
The majority of international moving companies in California must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. However, this registration only ensures their basic compliance with safety standards and doesn’t guarantee how well they perform overseas moves. To find out if an international moving company is trustworthy, it is best to review their credentials.
Do They Have a Network of Agents in the Destination Country of Your Shipment?
Having a network is necessary for any industry, but it’s essential in the shipping industry. A company with a network of international agents can offer you the assurance you need for your international move.
These international carriers will provide local knowledge and make sure all details—from paperwork to customs clearance—are completed properly before they deliver your goods. They’ll also coordinate with movers in the destination country, so everything goes smoothly when it comes time for delivery.
Finding the Best International Moving Companies in California
We know that finding the best international moving companies in California can be hard, but we want you to have the best experience possible. That’s why our team of experts is ready and waiting to help you plan your cross-country move or relocation abroad.
If you need more information on how we work with clients like yourself, contact us today!
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