Moving service
Home moving companies generally provide moving services. While these companies typically only offer complete home or office relocation services, they may ship smaller shipments, such as single pieces of furniture or appliances.
When shipping your household items with a traditional moving service, you don’t need to palletize or box your goods. However, you should make sure to double-check with your shipping company for advice on preparing your shipment. Moving companies usually offer different types of moving services.
freight service
Most people don’t know that freight services are another way to move household items. While most freight is for commercial shipments, freight services can be used to transport your items during a move.
Think of a freight service as a moving company that only provides transportation from one place to another (from your old home to your new home). Freight services are often just curb-to-curb, pickup and delivery. You will be responsible for packing (according to shipping guidelines), loading and unloading your items. If you’re willing to do the work, opting for a freight service instead of a moving service is a cheaper option.
Difference between movers and freight forwarders
1. Shipping method
Moving companies usually handle all aspects of moving overseas, either arranging the ocean freight directly or outsourcing the ocean freight to a freight forwarder.
Freight forwarders are licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight. Not all freight forwarders handle household items.
2. Freight forwarders handle international regulations and paperwork
Believe it or not, the hardest thing about moving internationally is not distance. Your cargo will pass through many regulatory checkpoints and must comply with the ever-changing requirements of maritime and customs authorities during transit from origin to destination. Logistics companies have the knowledge and experience to meet these challenges.
3.Movers (usually) handle personal items
Generally, but not without exception, moving companies ship personal or residential items and freight forwarders handle commercial shipments. So if you’re just moving your personal belongings from one country to another, you may only need an international mover to get through, but always make sure they have international packing experience. Even so, you may still need a freight forwarder to handle all customs requirements and permits required for international shipments.
Should I use a porter or a freight forwarder?
Freight forwarders are fully capable of handling international moves. But it’s best if you ask the right questions.
There is a difference between a porter and a freight forwarder. If they don’t have the right network, it can pose challenges.
If you are moving abroad, it is recommended that you look for an FMC licensed international moving company.
A fully licensed moving company will handle all aspects of your move, from packing and loading to customs clearance and delivery.
The best international moving companies have the proper network to ensure a positive experience.
