• Plan your move well in advance. There is a lot involved with shipping your belongings overseas including:

• Deciding what to take and what not to take. You will pay for the volume of goods you ship not the weight so be ruthless in your culling and make some extra pennies at a carboot sale or on Ebay and put that money towards your move. This is a time for change, not hording!

• Obtain quotes from reputable companies. Make sure you research thoroughly and select wisely. As with all things, due diligence will ensure that you enjoy a service tailored to your individual needs.
  

• Check to see if there are import restrictions on any items you intend shipping. You can do this by asking your shipper for this information. Some countries do not like food or other organic matters to be brought in for example.

• Look at getting quotations two to three months prior to your departure. Don't leave everything until the last minute - it's stressful enough without last minute uncertainties. Get organised way ahead of time and you will actually enjoy the move!
  

• Get two or three quotes and remember that the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best. Do a bit of research. Referrals are an excellent way to find a mover that has given good service. Check message boards on the web and ask family and friends if they know of anyone who has done this before. Other peoples experiences can be a valuable source of information.

• Make sure you choose a specialist international mover who will be experienced in export packing and shipping and can demonstrate that they ship to your country of destination on a regular basis. Experience is vital and this means that the mover has all the systems in place, tried and tested.
  

• Check that they are members of the British Association of Removers Overseas Group. Such companies are bonded and you will find they give a financial protection similar to the ABTA scheme.

• FAIM accredited movers belong to the global international moving association, FIDI, and will have been audited by Ernst & Young to test their competence. Another important consideration.

• One or two moving companies have an online service where you can track the shipment of your goods. You may find this very useful when you are mobile and on the move. There's nothing like feeling that you are in control of the situation and able to get information on tap. A good mover will also be a great communicator.

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