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Common Mistakes to Avoid when Shipping Items Overseas

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When you are moving abroad, it may be essential to ship your items to your new location. While you can hire a company to help you handle the process of shipping all your belongings, there are a few mistakes that may still occur. Knowing some of the most common mistakes that occur when shipping items overseas will help you avoid them and make your move as seamless and hassle-free as possible.

Hiring a Freight Forwarder without a License

It is important to select and hire a freight forwarder that is licensed to help avoid complications. The good news is, there are several places where you can verify the licensing status of a particular company prior to hiring them.

Not Reading the Estimate or Contract Prior to Paying or Signing

Be sure that you always read the fine print when hiring an overseas moving service. This process often involves quite a bit of bureaucracy, headaches and papers. Only use a professional freight forwarder. If there is something that you don't understand, be sure to ask for clarification prior to signing.

Not Having all the Necessary Documents

Shipping your items internationally is not the same as exporting a container to another country. This is a more complicated process, which means you need to hire a company that will provide you with all the necessary documentation.

Not Understanding what Can or Cannot be Shipped

Each country has their own list of items that are not allowed to be shipped. It is essential to take the time to learn what these are for your destination country to ensure you don't break any regulations. Failure to abide by these rules may result in your entire shipment being delayed and, in some cases, hefty fines.

Not Factoring in the Potential for Delays

Delays are to be expected. They can be the result of a number of different factors. Be sure to factor in the potential of a delay when shipping overseas. While there is no way to determine how long a delay will be, expecting them will help keep you from arriving in the country and your shipment still not being available.

Customs clearance can be a complicated process that requires a skilled shipping company to fully understand. Regardless of where you are moving or shipping an item to, there will be rules and regulations to abide by. Knowing the most common mistakes with these processes, which are highlighted here, can help you avoid them.


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