Moving FAQs

Understand the Moving Process

When is the best time to move?

The busiest times for moving companies are during the summer months when the volume of shipments is extremely heavy.

Consider all the factors when deciding on the best time for you to move and allow enough lead time for the family to perform all the pre-move activities as well as allow the moving company to schedule your move. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, indicate the parameters at origin and also at destination. This will allow the moving company to work within the requirements, scheduling packing teams, vehicles and international shipping in the most appropriate manner. If you stay flexible, it should make a difference.

Who will look after my goods in transit?

Moving home can be a particularly stressful event in a family’s life. There are other people to consider, so many issues to deal with, many little things to remember. The reason why we understand this is that for nearly 400 years Allied has been involved in moving companies and personal effects.

Unlike many other moving companies, Allied provides a "one stop shop" for all of your moving services. Using the Allied network 'door to door' ensures that your goods are well looked after from origin to destination in the same careful manner. With Allied offices in more than 40 countries, our global strength indicates we will be around for a long time, and here when you next move.

What should I do about the kids?

For some children the prospect of a new school, new friends or even a new bedroom can be daunting. Talk to your children about moving and get them used to the idea well in advance. There are many good websites and many good books which touch on the best way to handle children when moving.

Involve your children in the planning process.
Help them learn about the new community where they will be living.
Let them be honest with you about how they are feeling.
Try explaining the concept of moving to young children by play-acting with dolls, boxes and a truck.

Above all, keep your children safe on the moving day and reassure your children that you’re not going to leave them behind!

How can I manage to get it all done in time?

In todays hectic world, Allied is committed to making your moving experience as easy and stress-free as possible. As a trusted moving company we provide a wide range of moving services here and through Allied at many destinations.

Are packing materials the same?

No. Allied requires its Network members to provide special wrapping and packing materials. Availability of certain materials vary by country but in general we have a number of specialised cartons for the common items such as books, toys and normal home contents. In addition, most locations have both flat and standing wardrobes for clothing. One of our favourites is our Essentials box which is used for furniture hardware, remotes cables, etc. No matter how unique the item being moved, we can provide the right packaging.

Can Allied help us settle into our new home?

Included in our moving price is the placement and unpacking of your shipment at the destination. Some families like additional help such as stocking cupboards, making beds, connecting audio visual or IT equipment, or setting up a new kitchen… so you’re ready to start enjoying your new home almost immediately!

Settling in services including home cleaning and handyman assistance can be arranged in most destinations. For more information, contact us using our online contact form.

What range of moving services makes my house move simple?

We offer a wide set of moving services to make your move simple and stress free: These include:

Door to door service to virtually anywhere including countries in which there is not an Allied office.
Storage - short or long term.
All risk transit insurance including insurance for storage.
Special crating and casing for especially valuable items.
Special assistance for transportation of pets, vehicles.
Moving out or settling in services for cleaning or handyman needs which fall beyond what a mover can or will provide.
Relocation Services offered optionally and include services such as Home Search, School Selection, Spousal Career Counselling, Cultural Briefings and Orientation.

What if I have a vehicle to ship?

Vehicle regulations vary from country to country but they are almost always highly detailed in terms of paperwork, regulations and procedures. Before sending any vehicle overseas, be sure to check with our office first. Then also check the local Embassy of the destination country and insist on seeing the regulations in writing. If there are any doubts or concerns about what is or is not allowed, our office can assist in checking at the destination with reliable sources.

What if I have a pet to ship?

Pet owners are often more concerned about their pets than their personal effects. We know this and employ specialists or specialist partners to deal with pets. As with vehicles, the regulations vary greatly and importations of pets or animals are carefully watched at destination. Be absolutely sure of the rules before embarking on shipment of a pet. Also be aware of requirements for inoculations and quarantine.

Are there any things I should not ship or cannot take with me to my new home?

Most carriers have restrictions relating to safety and security. While countries differ, the list below may give you an idea of what are generally discouraged for shipment. This applies to goods packed by you or by our office.

Category 1: Radioactive Material

Wet Batteries

Category 2: Explosives

Ammunition
Flares
Fireworks

Category 3: Flammable Gases

Oxygen
Acetylene
L.P.G.

Category 4: Flammable Liquids

Petrol
Paints
Turpentine

Category 6: Oxidising Substances

Calcium Hypochlorite
Ammonium Nitrate
Sodium Nitrate
Hydrogen Peroxide
Fire Lighters Powder

Category 7: Corrosive Substances

Oxides
Caustic Soda
Hydrochloric Acid
Sulphuric Acid

Category 8: Poisonous and Toxic Substances

Pesticides
Weed Killers
Photographic Developers
Arsenic
Hydrochloric Acid

Category 9: Fire Arms

Military Weapons
Fully Automatic Weapons
Hand Guns