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There are various service providers for moving between locations in Manila. Some of them do international logistic, including consolidated cargo, container services, shipping and air freight. The mover should cover interests such as security, storage and insurance in the service terms.

Preparing for a Move to the Philippines

When preparing for your move and shipping your personal belongings, you should consider whether you are purchasing or renting property and whether you plan to stay for a short term or for the long term. Some items may be more expensive to replace in an island nation. These are some factors to think about when moving to the Philippines.

Find a Mover for the Philippines

Use the recommended service partners link below to receive a free quote and compare offers.

Basic Questions to Ask:

• How long has your company been in business? While a new company isn't necessarily a bad choice, experience is valuable.
• What is your safety record?
• Can you put me in touch with former customers? Good removal companies should have no problem supplying references.
• What are the full company name, address, phone number and website?
• What equipment do you provide? How many movers am I guaranteed?
• Can I see proof of your local/interstate/international moving license and insurance?
• What paperwork is necessary? Do they handle customs for all items?
• What shipping timelines do you offer?
• What are your groupage and sole shipment rates?
• What is your cancellation and refund policy?
• What am I responsible for once I arrive in the Philippines?

It is advisable to get at least three estimates in writing. A verbal agreement is not enforceable so make sure to have the estimate and details written down. By comparing multiple estimates, you will find what an average price for your move will really be, and find a company that best matches your expectations. It will also inform you of the different offers and advantages different companies offer. This can provide you room to negotiate with the company of your choice.

Understand Pricing

The price of moving depends on how much is being moved, the value of the goods, and the distance to be moved. Freight shipments with a weight of 1000 kgs and above from the US to the Philippines can cost PHP 550/kg. For comparison, freight shipments with a weight of 1000 kgs and above from the UK to the Philippines can cost PHP 750/kg. If possible, ship only the truly indispensable items and try to buy when you arrive to abate some of the cost.

Some basic factors in determining the best shipping method are:

• Volume - This is important for sea shipments.
• Weight and Volume - Evaluate the weight of items for air shipments.
• Final Destination - If you are moving across the globe (e.g. from the USA to Manila), you might want to ship the majority of your personal belongings by sea container and a small portion of things you will need upon your arrival by air.
• Moving Schedule - How soon do you need to receive your personal belongings at your destination? Do you already have accommodation (temporary or permanent)? Will you need to store some items until you find permanent accommodation? While storage costs in Manila are relatively affordable, this may be an extra cost that you want to avoid.
• Budget - Who is paying for your move? Your company or yourself? What is your allowance for the move? What fees are payable up front and on delivery?
• Renting or Buying? If you are renting property in Manila, some properties come semi-furnished or fully furnished so you won't necessarily need to ship all your personal belongings. However, if you are buying, properties for sale are not usually furnished.

Groupage

To save money, you can ship your items with other people's belongings. Known as "groupage", your personal belongings will be shipped with the personal belongings of one or more customers. While this offers considerable financial savings, it can take much longer. Usually, the shipment is sent to a central location warehouse with later shipments being made to a country specific destination.

If your shipment is large, or cost is not an issue, direct shipping is a better option. The container will hold only your personal belongings only and will go directly to its final destination without stopping at any other warehouse.