Moving Service 101
Common Moving Terminology to Know for Moving Service Users
Moving to a new place is definitely among life’s big occasions—complete with all its thrill and challenge. Whether moving within town or to another country, understanding the moving process helps alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that normally sets in with any such big change in one’s life. First, it’s important to get familiar with some common terminology and concepts about the moving service providers to help you sail through this complex process. This guide will walk you through key terms and services likely to be encountered, hence arming you with knowledge for a smoother relocation.
Understanding the Basics: Moving vs. Relocation
First of all, it should be outlined that moving and relocation are not exactly the same things. Though these terms are very often used to refer to one and the same process, they mean different things.
Moving generally means the physical moving of your goods from location A to location B. This would just entail the packing up of things, loading them onto a truck, and delivering the goods to your new home. In its entirety, moving services generally incorporate the following activities: packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. The focus is majorly on the logistics of getting your stuff from A to B.
On the other hand, relocation includes much more. Any relocation company will do more than moving; for example, it can help one in finding a new home, school searching for children, orientation in a new city, and even assistance in cultural integration. Probably the most important point, however, is the value of relocation services to expatriates and employees of multinationals when they are transferred across country borders to a different working site. Such relocation services would make the transition easier for the person and his family in getting used to the new place.
Key Terminology in Moving Services
Knowing moving industry terms can help communicate effectively with the moving company and ensure that you get services you need for your move. Here are some of the most common terms that you need to know:
Expat
An expat is a person who resides in any country other than their own for a short or long period. For instance, a British national living in Hong Kong would be referred to as an expat. When it comes to moving services in relation to relocation, expats quite often need special relocation services to help them get used to another country they will be living in; therefore, it is essential that they seek assistance regarding visa issues, housing, and settling.
In most cases, an on-site survey is done before a moving company is allowed to give a customer an accurate quote. This means that a representative from the moving company comes to a customer’s home to measure the volume of their goods and any extra services they may require. He’ll be watching out for large items, fragile things, stairs, and other issues that might make the move difficult to go through. This on-site survey is essential to receiving a detailed and accurate estimate so that there are no surprises on moving day.
Storage-In-Transit (SIT)
Occasionally, your moving timing does not quite align with the availability of your new home. In such cases, you may require Storage-In-Transit services. SIT entails storing your goods in a warehouse temporarily until your new home is ready. This is an additional precaution against house delays, which occasionally occur in long-distance or international moves. Be aware that this will most likely increase the price, so make sure to talk to your moving company about this option if you feel it may be necessary.
Full-Service Moving
A full-service move is when a moving company handles everything involved with your move from beginning to end. This would involve packing all your belongings into the moving truck, transporting them to a new location, offloading, and even unpacking in your new home. The full-service move is a boon for people who would rather not have too much hassle when it comes to their move, especially those who want to limit their stress and physical exhaustion from the move as much as possible. While this way is costlier, convenience and peace of mind are brought on board, especially for complicated or faraway moves.
Packing Services
If you are running out of time or are not sure how to pack all your belongings safely, then most moving companies will offer packing services. These professional packers are trained to take care of all your items, from fragile glassware to heavy furniture, ensuring everything is securely packed for transport. Packing services can be tailored to your needs, whether it be a few items or whole households.
Customs Clearance
Probably the most critical aspect of international moves is customs clearance. It’s getting your stuff through customs at the border when you reach your destination country. Generally, customs clearance may be complicated, requiring certain documentation and compliance with the destination country’s regulations. Your moving company or relocation service provider usually helps you with this process by making sure all paperwork is in order to avoid potential problems.
Insurance Coverage
Apart from this, you will also need to think about insurance coverage on your things during the move. Most movers offer basic liability protection; however, it does not really replace the values. Depending on their value and the fragile nature, you can opt for additional insurance to be well-covered in case they become damaged or are lost in the course of your move. Discuss your options with your moving company and be certain to know what is covered, and what is not.
Move Coordinator
A move coordinator plays an instrumental role in the management of your relocation. This will be the person who will be your on-hand contact during the move, coordinating everything from the pre-move consultation through the final delivery. This move coordinator will ensure everything goes according to plan, address any of your concerns, and keep you updated throughout every process involved in the move. A good move coordinator can take a lot of the burden off your mind when it comes to relocation by handling logistics and troubleshooting so that you might have time to settle into your new home.
Picking the Right Moving Service
In choosing a moving company, you want to select one that can provide services and professional expertise matching your particular requirements. Here are some tips on how to make the right choice:
- Research and Reviews: You can look up moving companies online and check their customer reviews. Check out companies with good reputations regarding reliability, professionalism, and customer service.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Do not take the first quote offered to you. Get quotes from different moving companies and compare their prices in comparison to the kind of services they can provide. Ensure that the quotes are very detailed, containing all kinds of possible costs.
- Licenses and Insurance: Verify that the moving company selected by you is licensed and insured. This would become very important for long-distance and international moves, where the risk of damage or loss is higher.
- Ask About Experience: The experience counts in the moving business. Enquire about prior experience of the moving company with moves like yours, particularly when you have special requirements like moving antiques or fragile items.
Conclusion
Moving services are very instrumental in ensuring you have a smooth and successful relocation. Knowing the common terminology and services will open your eyes to a lot going on, hence making better choices that lower stress and uncertainty associated with moving. Whether you’re moving across town or across the globe, you will be better positioned and placed to deal with the process when you are prepared and knowledgeable about what to expect.
Contact Asian Tigers Group to learn more and set up your next move.
