Relocating to Hong Kong
If you have decided to relocate to Hong Kong, take enough time to choose your removal company. This is an important step not to be taken lightly. Set up an appointment with a relocation counselor for an in-house estimate and make a list of all the objects that require special care (glass, mirror, piece of art, special packaging, etc.) Specify to the mover what you prefer to do yourself (dismantling furniture, packing dishes, etc.).
To find a carrier or a mover, use the Internet, consult the yellow pages or get a free quote and find your mover in Hong Kong now.
Step one: make a list
Make an exhaustive inventory of your belongings to establish a value statement. The value statement is an important document that sets the compensation amount you could receive in case of loss or damage to your belongings.
Complete the declaration of value yourself by stating the overall value of your property and the value of certain particular precious items. Read the terms and conditions of your contract carefully to find out more about the transportation and handling of precious objects. This statement is particularly important because, without it, an estimate cannot be established, which will obviously affect your relocation and your organization.
Step two: estimate and moving process
Regarding the estimate, several key points are to be considered, including:
- Origin address: where removers will pack and load your belongings;
- Destination address in Hong Kong: where removers will unload your belongings;
- Volume or weight of your things;
- Types of transportation (by air, train, truck, ship);
- Nature of the services – terms and conditions, insurance damage;
- Prices and payment plans.
Usually, removal companies unload your belongings directly at the destination address. However, some removal companies unload your belongings in warehouses, and you will have to pick them up yourself afterward, implying additional costs. Check your moving contract carefully.
Step three: consider damage insurance
Damage insurance automatically covers non-predictable damage associated with the transportation of your belongings up to the value indicated in the declaration of value. The cost of the insurance depends on the overall value of your belongings. The removal company must issue a certificate of insurance in any case.
Step four: sign the waybill
Finally, you must sign the waybill before loading and after the delivery of your belongings. The waybill is a document that specifies the terms and conditions of the contract, the mode of transportation, the volume or weight carried by the removal company, the name and address of both the customer and the carrier. By signing the waybill, you definitely agree to these terms and conditions and give permission to the removal company to go ahead.
Regarding removal payment plans, a deposit is usually to be paid before loading, and the balance must be paid upon delivery. A payment plan must be arranged with the removal company in any case.
Important:
In general, carriers handle custom paperwork for you (customs clearance, etc.). For more security, opt for a carrier affiliated with the FIDI (International Federation of International Movers).
Good to know:
Contact the Chinese Consulate for more information about relocating to Hong Kong, customs, prohibited items, etc.
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