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5 days ago

reviewing international moving quotes before choosing a relocation company

Is Your Quote Too Good to Be True? How to Vet an International Mover

When you’re planning an international move, the first thing you do is request quotes — and within minutes, the confusion begins. One mover sends a detailed estimate. Another sends a short, tidy number. And one looks unbelievably cheap.

That’s the moment a lot of people make a mistake.

International moving is not a price-driven decision. It’s a trust-driven one. A “too good to be true” quote usually becomes exactly that — a source of hidden charges, poor packing, slow delivery, or even disputes once your shipment is already on the way.

This guide will help you understand why quotes differ and how to vet an international moving service so you choose safety, not surprises.

Why International Moving Quotes Differ So Dramatically

Unlike local shifting, an international move includes multiple stages that must work in harmony. A good mover prices each stage responsibly. A low-cost mover simply ignores or hides them.

Here’s what legitimate movers must factor in:

· Export-grade packing and crating

· Freight costs (air or sea) which fluctuate globally

· Port handling charges and destination country fees

· Customs documentation, clearance, and compliance

· Storage (in case your shipment arrives early or you’re still house-hunting)

· Transit protection / insurance

· Verified partners at destination for last-mile delivery

Low-cost movers often exclude these things intentionally. And those exclusions come back as “unexpected expenses” when you’re least prepared.

Red Flags Hidden in Low-Cost International Moving Quotes

Not all low quotes are dangerous… but many are. Here are the most common warning signs:

1. No pre-move survey

A real mover never guesses your volume. Without a survey, your quote is a rough number — and the final bill will be very different.

2. “Packing included” with no detail

Quality movers list materials: bubble wrap, foam, cushioning, tape, shrink film, wooden crates.
If your quote doesn’t specify this, your belongings are at risk.

3. No mention of destination country charges

Port fees, local transport, customs inspection charges — none of these are optional.
Low-cost movers hide these to appear competitive.

4. Unclear or unknown destination partner

Some movers hand over your cargo to unverified agents abroad.

That’s where professionalism ends and chaos begins.

5. One-line quotes

International quotes are never simple.

They must include multiple line items.
An overly “clean” quote is simply incomplete.

How to Vet an International Mover: 10 Questions You MUST Ask

This is where you separate credible movers from risky ones. Here’s a deeper look at each question — and why it matters.

1. Will you conduct an in-person or virtual pre-move consultation?

A consultation is the foundation of an accurate quote.
It helps assess:

· Volume

· Fragile items

· Items needing crating

· Items needing dismantling

· Access issues at pickup

2. What packing materials will you use, and how do you pack fragile items?

International shipments undergo multiple touchpoints — loading, unloading, customs inspection, long sea travel.

· Ask the mover to specify:

· Type of cartons

· Cushioning layers

· Protection for electronics

· Wooden crating processes

The answer will reveal how seriously they treat your belongings.

3. Who will be my point of contact throughout the move?

International relocations involve multiple touchpoints — surveys, packing, export formalities, partner coordination, shipping updates, and delivery. Without a single point of contact, communication quickly becomes fragmented.

A professional mover should assign someone who manages your entire move end-to-end.

4. What insurance options do you offer?

Even the most skilled mover cannot control airport handling.
Insurance is essential — not optional.

Ask for:

· Coverage type

· Claim process

· Premium cost

· What’s included/excluded

If the mover avoids this topic, walk away.

5. Who will be handling my belongings to the destination country?

Reliable movers have verified, long-standing international partners.
Ask for:

· The partner company’s name

· Their track record

· What they handle (delivery, unpacking, customs, etc.)

6. Is pricing itemised and transparent?

Your quote should clearly mention:

· Packing charges

· Freight charges

· Destination fees breakdown ( port charges, terminal handling charges, local delivery charges etc.)

· Customs documentation support

· Storage costs

· Transit protection

· Taxes

Transparency is a sign of professionalism.

7. What support do you provide with customs documentation?

Smooth customs clearance depends on proper paperwork.
Your mover should guide you on:

· Required documents

· Restricted/prohibited items

· Country-specific rules

· Anything that may trigger inspections

If a mover says “don’t worry, we’ll handle it all,” without details — worry more.

8. Do you provide storage if needed?

If you’re still finalising accommodation abroad, or your container arrives early, storage saves you from last-minute chaos.
A mover with secure storage options is better equipped to handle real-world scenarios.

9. What are the exclusions in your quote?

This one question alone exposes hidden costs.

Ask clearly:

· What is NOT covered?

· Under what conditions will I be charged extra?

Good movers list exclusions upfront.
Low-Cost movers avoid this question.

10. Can you share references or reviews from satisfied customers?

Real customer stories help you understand the mover’s reliability.
Professional movers are always ready to share references or verified reviews.

Conclusion:

A low international moving quote isn’t always a bargain — it’s often a signal that something important is missing. When you ask the right questions and choose transparency over shortcuts, your move becomes safer and more predictable.

A reliable mover does more than transport boxes; they guide you through the complexities of global shipping, customs rules, timelines, and the emotional weight of moving your life abroad.

That’s where Pikkol adds real value.

If you're planning an international relocation and want clarity from the first conversation to the final delivery, Pikkol’s team is ready to help you get started with a simple, obligation-free consultation.

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