General guidance and tips

Buying a property overseas can be exciting and nerve wracking, all at the same time. Below are some tips that will help and hopefully, minimise the potential for disaster when moving some possessions to your new property.

1. Choose your method of transit carefully. Abels will be able to advise on the best method depending on your requirements. There are five main types: Exclusive container [link to that page], Groupage (part load) [link to that page] by container, LCL [link to that page] via a freight container – LCL means less than a container load – airfreight [link to that page] and by road to main land Europe as a full or part load.
2. Good packing is essential. If you can, leave it to the professionals who will ensure that every item is packed carefully and securely. If not, we have included some packing guidance [link to that page] to assist you although note that many insurance policies restrict cover on self-packed goods which are damaged in transit and security issues can cause delays and inspection by customs.
3. Accidents can happen anywhere en-route. Ensure that insurance [link to that page] is covered door-to-door. It is also important to declare the true value of the goods at destination to prevent a possible reduction in the claim based on any undervaluation. Finally, read the terms and conditions, it may seem obvious now but when you are stressed and tired it is easily forgotten.
4. There are also many items which are not allowed to be despatched as unaccompanied luggage. In the planning stage Abels will give you guidance to avoid delays or confiscation by the authorities.