Relocation Guide
How to Compare International Moving Companies in India
International moves are expensive, highly complex, and tightly regulated. Choosing the wrong company can result in months of delays, severely damaged goods, or massive unexpected customs fines.
Not all quotes are created equal. Here is exactly how to compare international moving companies properly to ensure your goods actually arrive safely.
The 5 Things That Actually Matter
1. Are they licensed and registered?
Verify their corporate registration (MCA/ROC in India) and check if they have IBA (Indian Banks' Association) approval. Fly-by-night operators disappear when claims arise.
2. Do they have experience on your specific route?
Moving to the USA is different from moving to New Zealand. Ask them directly about their experience with your destination's specific customs and biosecurity laws.
3. What does their insurance actually cover?
Basic transit insurance often only covers total loss of the ship. You need 'Declared Value' or 'All-Risk' coverage for individual damaged items. Check the fine print.
4. Who handles customs at the destination?
Some cheap companies only ship to the destination port and leave you to figure out customs clearance yourself. Ensure the quote is 'Door-to-Door', including destination clearance.
5. Is the quote truly all-inclusive?
Low-ball quotes often exclude port handling charges (THC), quarantine inspection fees, or delivery above the ground floor. Ask if any charges will be added later.
Questions to Ask When Getting Quotes
- •How many moves have you done on this specific route in the last 12 months?
- •Are you packing the goods with your own payroll team or subcontracting?
- •Who is your destination partner agent, and how long have you worked with them?
- •Is destination customs clearance explicitly included in this quote?
- •What exact documentation will you prepare for Indian export customs?
- •What is your formal claims process if goods arrive damaged?
- •What specific export-grade packing materials do you use?
- •Can I get a reference from a recent customer who moved to this same country?
- •What is the realistic transit time, not just the optimistic estimate?
- •What happens if my container is delayed at the port?
Red Flags in International Moving Quotes
- •The price is significantly (30%+) lower than the market average.
- •They refuse to provide a comprehensive, written, all-inclusive quote.
- •They are vague about who handles destination clearance (e.g., saying 'our partner handles it' without naming the partner).
- •They do not have a registered corporate office address.
- •They push aggressively for a deposit before conducting a proper pre-move survey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many quotes should I get for an international move?▼
We recommend getting exactly 3 quotes. Fewer doesn't give you a baseline; more becomes confusing because the volume estimates will start to differ wildly.
Should I choose the cheapest international mover?▼
Almost never. Exceptionally cheap quotes usually hide 'Destination Port Charges' that you'll be forced to pay before your goods are released, making them more expensive in the end.
What's the difference between an international mover and a freight forwarder?▼
A freight forwarder just books space on a ship. An international mover handles packing, export customs, freight, import customs, and delivery to your living room.
Is a local packer who says they do international moves actually reliable?▼
Usually not. Local movers lack the global partner network required to clear your goods at the destination port, leaving you stranded.
How do I verify an international mover's credentials?▼
Check their Google Reviews, ask for their GST and corporate registration numbers, and request references for the specific country you are moving to.
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