If you can move yourself and all your belongings –
the cheaper this will be (if you hire
a van, it will cost about 450€ for 500 km). However most often you
will call a professional for assistance in international
moving, and/or storage. This specialist will be part
of a network of companies agreed to international organisations
(FIDI, HHFGAA, AMSA, LACMA…).
Do not wait until the last minute to consult removal
companies. Contact several companies at least 1 month
before your planned moving date so that you will have
a chance to choose the best deal. Your free estimate
should cover the following points :
-
Detailed description
of the services
-
Dates of the move, or
period when the move will take place
-
Amount of furniture
to be moved (measured in m³)
-
Distance in kilometres
-
The price and payment
methods
-
The value of the furniture
to be moved § Period of validity of estimate price
-
Furniture which will
be removed via a window and the possible need for
a pulley
-
Access to both properties
(for example, if furiture must be carried up stairs)
-
Extra services
Some precautions
Once you have chosen your company, tell your removal
advisor which level of service you require, and whether
you are planning on packing up or disassembling certain
items of furniture yourself.
Make a list of items which need special attention.
It is up to you to check out the access to the new property
and any conditions which may have an effect on the smooth
running of the move (for example, if the move is to
take place on a market day).
Contact the préfecture de police
(police headquarters – 1st district, or the town-hall)
if there is a possibility that the removal van may block
a street. If a disruption is caused and you have not
informed the police, you may be required to pay additional
charges.
Statement of value
If you use a professional removal firm, they will be
responsible for any damage caused to your belongings
(you are required to make a statement of the value of
your belongings before an estimate is written, so that
in case of any damage being incurred, the compensation
amounts will be fixed).
Payment of removal costs
Payment conditions should be negotiated with the company:
A deposit should be paid upon acceptance
of the estimate.
The balance is usually paid when the removal has been
completed.
Tipping is optional but frequently practised.
The amount will depend on the quality of the service
provided and your personal satisfaction.
Classical problems are: containers are 32 m3
and the more you have, the longer it may take to transport
your belongings; always check the date of delivery by
calling the company; check seals at the departure, and
at arrival; avoid the end of the summer holiday; and
as you have to check the furniture upon arrival, be
sure to be able to read and understand the list. Check
also that white goods are electrically compatible (buy
an adaptor or don’t take them).
The cost is about 4600€-6100€ per container (depending on service
and insurance).
You can ask for details of the removal company insurances
but be careful with the limited responsibilities.
You might need to put you items/furniture into storage;
your mover should be able to provide this facility or
give you contact numbers.
Information : 0800 010 020 for details of how to prepare for your move and a list of companies which are members of the Employer's Federation:
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