Are you moving to continental Europe for work or personal reasons? If the answer is yes, you’re most likely both nervous and excited. There’s quite a bit of preparation you’ll have to do, which will probably include learning a new language if you don’t already speak the native tongue of your new home. There are also some important things you need to know about shipping your personal effects to continental Europe. At Orbit International Moving Logistics, Inc. we’re the experts when it comes to international moving. Below is some crucial information to help you through the process.
Continental Europe
There are over 40 countries in continental Europe. Approximately half of them are part of the European Union (EU), a political and economic unification. EU member countries are bound by the same laws and treaties. It is easy for residents of EU member countries to travel as well as work within the Union.
Many countries within continental Europe have either chosen not to become EU members or they aren’t eligible for membership. These countries have their own laws, although it is still somewhat easy to migrate from a non-EU country on the continent to an EU country.
Shipping to Countries within Continental Europe
Even though EU countries operate under the same legal framework, each country still has its own shipping restrictions. However, you might not wind up shipping your personal effects directly to your destination.
The “Groupage” Concept
Why would that be? Many people do not have enough belongings to fill an entire shipping container. Shipping companies understand that problem, so they combine a number of shipments in one load (known in the industry as a “groupage”). When you ship your goods as part of a groupage to continental Europe, the groupage does not go directly to your new home. Instead, it will clear customs in the UK.
Let’s say you’re moving to Switzerland or Norway, neither of which are EU member countries, but are located within continental Europe. If you are part of a groupage, your goods will clear Norwegian or Swiss customs within the UK.
What is the advantage of shipping your belongings as part of a groupage? It is a more affordable way to ship. Shipping an entire container of goods is expensive. Only sending what you need means that you share the costs with other people moving to Europe. Do you have a full container load of belongings? Then your shipment will travel directly to your new home.
Before you start packing, check with your shipping company in addition to the customs authority to find out what you can and can’t ship. Shipping banned items will cause you problems at customs and may result in hefty fines.
Orbit International Moving Logistics Inc.: Your International Shipping Experts
When you’re moving abroad, you want a shipping company you can trust. Orbit International Moving Logistics Inc. has been in business for over a decade. We’ve moved customers to and from Europe. Why do our clients choose us? Simply put, because we offer excellent customer service. Our employees answer all of your questions, no matter how big or small. Our moving crews show up on time and get the job done right. Want to learn more? Call us today at 416-661-4228.
By Adi Shaked
