Questions to Ask your Moving Company in Dubai for International Move

February 26, 2025

Admin

Relocating abroad is a thrilling but intricate process that needs careful planning and implementation. In contrast to a local move, an overseas relocation comes with several issues, such as customs laws, shipping procedures, packing requirements, and legal demands. Selecting the appropriate moving company in Dubai can be a big difference-maker when it comes to a hassle-free transition. Nevertheless, not every moving company has the same degree of competence or quality of service.
In order to prevent avoidable stress, concealed expenses, or logistical difficulties, it is crucial to make the right questions prior to recruiting an international mover. This article is a guide on the vital questions to inquire from a mover to have an easy overseas move.

Experience and Qualifications

a) How many years of experience do you have with international moves?

International moves are much more complicated than domestic moves. They need to be done with a certain level of experience in clearing customs, foreign shipping routes, and multi-modal transport logistics. While choosing a moving company in Dubai, ask them:

Number of years they have been dealing with international relocation.

Particular experience in relocation to your country of destination.

Previous customer testimonials and referrals for comparable relocations.

Case studies of successful overseas relocations.

b) Are you accredited and licensed for international moving?

A good international moving company must have certifications and memberships with international recognized bodies, including:

FIDI (Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux) – Provides assurance of conformity to international moving standards.

IAM (International Association of Movers) – Speaks to high-quality movers worldwide.

British Association of Removers (BAR) – Suggests compliance with ethical and operational standards.

ISO 9001 Certification – Guarantees the company complies with quality management systems.

These accreditations suggest compliance with international best practices and guarantee that the company is adequately prepared to manage overseas moves effectively.

Moving Costs and Estimates

a) How do you determine the cost of an international move?

International relocation prices with a professional moving company in Dubai vary based on several factors, such as:

Weight and size of your items.

Transport mode (air freight, sea freight, or land transport).

Distance and destination nation.

Customs charges and import taxes.

Extra services (packing, storage, insurance, etc.).

Request the moving company to itemize all fees so you can make an informed choice.

b) Are there any hidden charges or extra fees?

Certain businesses can charge additional fees for:

Customs clearing fees.

Port and documentation fees.

Storage fees in the event of delay in shipping.

Extra packing material for sensitive or high-value products.

Hard-to-reach destination delivery surcharges.

Make sure that you clarify all fees ahead of time to prevent any unexpected additions to your final bill.

c) Do you offer a binding or non-binding estimate?

A binding estimate ensures that the quoted price is fixed and will not vary, whereas a non-binding estimate can increase depending on the actual weight and volume of the shipment. Always ask for a written and comprehensive estimate to avoid surprise costs.

Packing and Handling of Belongings

a) Do you provide professional packing services?

International moving involves specialized packing techniques to secure the safety of belongings with long transit times. A professional moving company should offer:

Quality packing materials (bubble wrap, crates, shock-absorbing materials).

Special crating for delicate or high-value items.

Labeling and inventory control for customs purposes.

b) How do you treat fragile or high-value items?

For valuable or sensitive items, inquire if they have:

Custom wood crating available for antiques, glass items, or electronics.

Climate-controlled transport available for artwork or fragile items.

Additional insurance for valuable items.

c) What is done if my items are damaged in transit?

A professional mover should offer various coverage options, including:

Basic liability protection (reimbursement based on weight).

Full-value protection (reimbursement based on item value).

Third-party insurance coverage for extra protection.

Shipping and Logistics

a) What are your shipping options?

The majority of moving companies offer two primary shipping methods:

Air freight (quick but pricey): Best for expedited shipments or irreplaceable items.

Sea freight (affordable but slower): Best for bigger moves with adjustable timelines.

b) How long will the move take?

Estimated delivery times rely on a range of factors, including customs processing and shipping timetables:

Air freight: Generally, 1-3 weeks.

Sea freight: 4-12 weeks.

c) Can I monitor my shipment?

A professional Moving Company in Dubai should provide:

Real-time tracking websites for the status of your shipment.

Email or phone alerts for delays or delivery.

A personal moving coordinator for individual support.

Custom Regulations and Paperwork

a) What does customs clearing involve?

The required documents will differ from one nation to the other, though similar documents have come to include:

Passport and visa.

Shipments list of goods to be moved in.

Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.

Declaration papers for custom requirements.

Documents serving as residential proof where shipments are ending their journey in.

b) Do you facilitate customs clearing?

Your professional moving service should:

Compile all paper-based customs papers in readiness for shipping.

Give instructions for duty exemptions and taxation.

Give instructions for import/export limitations to your destination.

c) Are there any prohibited or restricted items?

There are varying import restrictions in every country. Generally, prohibited items are:

Firearms, ammunition, and weapons.

Animal products, perishable food, or dairy products.

Restricted chemicals or harmful substances.

Plants, seeds, or farm products.

Your moving company in Dubai will offer a complete list of restricted items for your destination country.

Conclusion

Selecting a suitable moving company in Dubai to undertake an overseas move needs attention to detail. Asking the mover detailed questions pertaining to experience, charges, the method of packing, logistics, and compliance with customs will ascertain a hassle-free moving experience.
A reliable international mover not only will offer open and fair pricing and dependable services but also help you navigate the intricacies of overseas moving. Proper preparation and a professional moving company can help you migrate smoothly to your new overseas home without undue stress or holdups.