Everything you
The Process
Moving overseas is a complicated process that takes a lot of careful planning. It’s important you work with a company who understands this and will do everything to make sure your possessions get from your old home to your new home safely. At Overseas Packers & Shippers, we follow a careful process that has been tried and tested for 50 years.
Step 1: Get an Estimate
The first step in your moving journey with Overseas Packers & Shippers is to receive an estimate from our friendly team. Firstly, fill out our ‘Quick Estimate’ form detailing your:
- Full Name
- Email address
- Country, suburb and state you’re moving from
- Country, suburb and state you’re moving to
- A rough moving date (but if you have a specific date, even better!)
- List of items to be moved
The estimated is based on the average size of the items you list (e.g. fridge, lounge suite, queen sized bed etc.), so the more detail you provide, the more accurate your estimate will be.
After submitting your enquiry form, a member of our team will be in touch via email or phone within approximately 24 hours Monday to Friday.
Step 2: Survey
If you’re happy with your initial estimate, the next step is to arrange a pre-move survey. You can choose either an in-home survey or a convenient virtual survey via FaceTime or WhatsApp.
During the survey, we’ll go through the belongings you’re planning to take with you so we can accurately assess the volume of your shipment and provide you with a detailed quote.
Option 1: In-Home Survey
One of our experienced Moving Consultants will visit your home and walk through each room with you, discussing what you’d like to take and identifying any items that may require special packing or handling.
As international moving costs are largely based on the volume of your shipment, we’ll assess how much space your belongings are likely to require. We understand plans can change, so you can also identify items you’re still deciding whether to take.
Your Moving Consultant can answer questions about your move, discuss your shipping options and transit insurance, and offer advice to help you plan for your destination.
Option 2: Virtual Survey
If it’s more convenient, we can complete your survey by video call using FaceTime or WhatsApp, allowing you to show us around your home at a time that suits you.
Your Moving Consultant will guide you through each room while you show us the belongings you’d like to take. We’ll ask you to open cupboards, wardrobes and drawers where necessary so we can get a clear picture of everything being shipped and accurately estimate the volume.
A virtual survey provides the same opportunity to discuss your move, ask questions and receive advice about your shipping options—all from the convenience of your own home.
Step 3: We Pack for You!
That’s right—we professionally pack and wrap your belongings for you, so you can leave the hard work to us.
When our team arrives, the Team Leader will complete a final walk-through with you to confirm what is being packed and identify anything that needs to stay behind. Our packing crew will then work efficiently through your home, carefully preparing your belongings for their journey overseas.
We ask that at least one responsible person remains at home throughout the packing process. You don’t need to supervise our team, but it’s important that someone is available in case we have questions or need you to make a decision about a particular item.
Packing day can be busy, with our team working throughout different areas of your home. If possible, we recommend arranging for young children and pets to spend the day somewhere else, where they’ll be safe and comfortable away from the activity and noise.
We’ll work with you when scheduling your packing day to make sure the timing fits comfortably with your departure plans, giving you enough time to prepare without being without your belongings for longer than necessary.
Step 4: Bon Voyage!
When it’s time for your belongings to be shipped, we deliver your container to the port ready for its journey to your new home.
After the vessel has departed, Overseas Packers & Shippers will email you with your shipping details, including:
- Vessel name
- Container number
- Departure and estimated arrival dates
- Details of our trusted destination partner
- Their contact information
Shipping schedules vary depending on your destination and vessel availability. Our team will work with you to find the best shipping solution for your timeframe and budget.
If storage is required before shipping, we can also securely store your belongings for as long as needed.
Throughout your move, our team is here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, simply contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.
Step 5: Customs
Customs requirements vary depending on the country you’re moving to and the belongings you’re taking with you. We’ll provide you with relevant customs information at the time of quoting or during your pre-move survey, so you understand what may be required well before your belongings are shipped.
Some destinations have more complex customs or quarantine requirements than others. Our team will guide you through the documentation required for your move and let you know about any important requirements you need to be aware of.
As your move progresses, we’ll also connect you with our trusted destination partner, who will assist with the customs clearance and delivery process when your shipment arrives.
While customs clearance timeframes are outside our control, we’ll keep you informed of any known delays or issues and work closely with our international partners to help ensure the required documentation is in place for your shipment.
Step 6: Welcome Home!
Welcome home! Your belongings have arrived in your new home country. When your shipping container arrives at the port, one of our trusted international partners will collect your container and either bring it straight to your home or to a secure warehouse. When the container arrives at your home, the team will unpack and unwrap your belongings, leaving no mess behind ready for you to enjoy your new home.
FAQs:
Can I pack my own boxes?
Yes, however insurance cover for owner-packed items may be limited. Our professional packing service ensures your belongings are packed appropriately for international shipping and also takes one big job off your moving list.
Ask our team about the packing and insurance options available for your move.
When do I pay for the move?
If the final volume of your shipment is known in advance, we’ll send your invoice for payment prior to collection. If the volume needs to be confirmed after your belongings have been packed and collected, we’ll invoice you once the final volume is known.
All moves must be paid in full before your shipment can be sent overseas.
How far in advance should I book my move?
The earlier, the better. Shipping availability can vary depending on your destination and time of year, so contacting us early gives you more options. If you’re moving at short notice, give us a call—we’ll always do our best to help.
Which countries do you move to?
Almost anywhere in the world. Through our extensive network of trusted international moving partners, we can coordinate your move from Australia right through to your new home overseas.
No matter where you’re headed, our team will help manage your move every step of the way.
Will my belongings be unpacked when they arrive?
Yes. If you’ve selected our unpacking service, our destination team can unpack your cartons onto the nearest flat surface, unwrap furniture and place in home and remove the used packing materials, helping make settling into your new home that little bit easier.
What can I take with me?
You can take most household and personal belongings with you, including furniture, clothing, books, kitchenware and personal items. However, every country has its own customs and quarantine regulations, and some items—such as food, alcohol, plants, medicines and certain outdoor equipment—may be restricted or require special clearance.
Some destinations, particularly New Zealand, have very strict biosecurity requirements. Our team will guide you through the requirements for your destination and let you know about any items that may need special attention before we pack your belongings.
Will I have someone I can contact throughout my move?
Absolutely. You’ll have a dedicated move coordinator who will be your main point of contact throughout your relocation, keeping you informed and answering any questions along the way.
Once your belongings arrive overseas, our trusted destination partner will also be there to assist with the final stages of your move and delivery to your new home.
