Villas inside and out

The key word here is moving. There is a current HSBC television advertisement that highlights what the bank can do for you, setting up your credit cards and accounts before you leave, etc.  What it does not mention is the sheer agony that some people go through in physically moving their belongings. 

How hard can it be? You hire a truck and a few burly men and they drive across to your new home? Well, no - actually there are complications even in the simplest of moves.

Of course, if you are moving to the USA or Australia you must expect problems, although bizarrely, both of these destinations seem to have the process well under control. It is the places that you do not expect, that cause the greatest problems.

Once you start planning, and it is important to start planning early in the moving process, you will find a myriad of choices and price options.  Airfreight is quick but seriously expensive, shipping by sea is slow but affordable.  Marine insurance sounds expensive but is an absolute must - do not under any circumstances attempt to save money by not taking 'all risks' 'total loss' insurance.

Also, go to a reputable shipping agent. The internet is full of companies offering cheap prices, I am certain that some of them are very good but also certain that I do not want to try them out with all my worldly belongings.

With marine shipping, you will have a number of choices, for example, do you take a full container of your own or do you share a container?  There is more to this question than simply saving money.  Customs will frequently open containers to check that the contents match the shipping documentation.  Whilst it is only a small risk, you certainly do not want to be sharing with a smuggler - believe me, these things do happen.

Hundreds of people move their belongs every day without any problems at all. Usually, they are the ones that have taken the trouble to do some planning and investigation.  Problems, when they occur, are often a nightmare including massive delays, lost or stolen items, damaged and soiled belongings.

Proper prior planning will not avoid all the risks but it will pay dividends and reduce your stress levels.

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