FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you have questions about your move ... and about The Relocation Center.
We stand ready to answer both sets of questions. We know that moving automatically causes stress. We also know we have the best tools and professionals to address your moving needs. We're compassionate to organizations and employees when it comes to moving, and we're ready to take on the heavy load so families can focus on what matters most – their families.
Moving Internationally
What advice can you give me on how to plan for my international move?
Preparation! Preparation! Preparation!
As soon as you know that you're going to be moving overseas, contact your relocation coordinator.
In addition, begin to think about separating items to be sold, stored, disposed of, given away, moved by sea, moved by air or delivered to another family member before your departure. You should have a clear idea about these categories before completing the pre-move survey.
As you approach moving day, think about which items will accompany you as you travel to the new destination, specifically travel papers, immediate clothing, passports, medical documentation and records, family papers, valuables, jewelry, medication, school records, etc..
When should I contact my relocation coordinator to organize my pending international move?
Timely preparation is the key ingredient to a successful international move. You should contact your relocation coordinator at least seven to ten weeks prior to your intended date of departure. This will allow sufficient time to confirm documentation requirements, pre-book international transportation services and pre-advise the destination agent of the forthcoming international shipment.
What should my relocation coordinator be able to tell me about my international move?
Your relocation coordinator should be able to describe every aspect of your forthcoming international move. This should include all services;: packing, crating, transit times, insurance, unpacking, storage and customer service capabilities.
Your relocation coordinator should be able to advise you of the different shipping options available to your overseas destination, as well as making an accurate estimate of the volume and weight of your shipment. In addition, you should be given an overview of the paperwork that will be required and advice on how to prepare for the international move.
What items should I NOT include in an international household goods shipment?
Use common sense when thinking about what to include in your international shipment. You should avoid taking anything that could leak during its journey and cause significant damage to the articles surrounding it.
You should NOT include the following:
• hazardous materials such as paint, matches, aerosol cans, gas canisters or other flammables materials such as wood, bricks, cement, rocks and soil of any type
• firearms and ammunition
• plants of any kind
• corrosives and explosives
• perishable goods
If you have any doubt as to what should and shouldn't be included in an international shipment, consult your relocation coordinator as soon as possible.
How do I determine the level of insurance coverage that is required for my belongings in an international move?
You are required to carry a minimum coverage of $5 per pound or $5,000 if the weight is less than 1,000 pounds. However, you should think about what it would cost to replace your household goods and personal effects in the country of destination. The best way to make this determination is to look at your contents or personal property coverage on your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy.
When completing your international valuation paperwork, please be as detailed as possible. Remember to mark down individual items that have a high replacement cost. This includes items except for appliances with a value of $2,000 or more. For these items please be sure to have a purchase receipt or an appraisal. You will need this documentation in the event that you need to file a claim. It's better to have too much information than not enough in this instance.
If you have any questions relating to the coverage on your international move, contact your relocation coordinator immediately.
Who will provide delivery services at destination?
The Relocation Center has developed a comprehensive network of corporate overseas agents based on their quality of service and experience.
Our overseas offices and agents provide services and expertise in the following areas:
• port of arrival and customs clearance procedures
• transportation from the destination port of arrival
• temporary or long term storage if required
• delivery to residence
• full unpacking services
• removal of all related packing debris
When I arrive at my overseas destination, whom should I contact to determine the status of my shipment?
For the status of your shipment when you arrive at your destination, please contact your relocation coordinator at 1-800-733-0930.
Where should I go to find the most up-to-date information regarding customs clearance documentation requirements?
Due to the frequency in which paperwork requirements change, it's important (and ultimately your responsibility) to contact the local embassy or consulate to verify the documentation that is needed to obtain duty-free entry of used household goods and personal effects.
Although a The Relocation Center will have a list of the most recent documentation requirements, it's still your responsibility to make sure that you have the correct documentation for your personal situation.
Corporate Relocation
Is it possible to track the status of my move?
For both transferees and corporate staff, your Relocation Coordinator is only a phone call or email away to verify the status of relocation activities. Your assigned coordinator tracks the activity of the move daily. Updates are always available to clients and transferees via phone, email or web devices.
Does TRC arrange temporary housing for employees?
TRC has an extensive network of temporary housing throughout the country. Temporary Housing is a standard apartment that ranges from one to three bedrooms. They come fully furnished with cookware, linens/towels, small appliances such as coffeemakers, irons & alarm clocks, major appliances like microwaves, refrigerator, stove and washer/dryer, plants & pictures, accessories, maid service and all utilities included, even local telephone service, cable TV and more.
Can I access my relocation policy via TRC’s website?
Corporate clients may access their relocation policy buy going to www.relocationcenter.com and go to the reporting/tracking tool. When you click on MoveCentral it will bring you to the MoveCentral login portal. You will need your username and password that has been assigned to you by your relocation coordinator.
Does TRC have a mobile application?
Yes, The Relocation Center is one of the first relocation companies to have a smart phone app. You may search for relocation or moving and find the TRC app.
How does my company invite TRC to participate in our upcoming RFP for relocation services?
You may invite TRC to participate in a RFP for Relocation by contacting Greg Bonaventure, Vice President of Sales, at greg@relocationcenter.com or by calling Greg at 1-800-733-0930 ext. 217.
Can I pack my own cartons?
You may pack your own cartons. Everything you pack is considered a PBO (packed by owner). PBO’s are not covered for damage or breakage. The mover can’t guarantee something you packed.
How should I move my valuables?
Money, jewelry, coins, stamp and photo collections, other collections, watches, precious stones, furs, documents, are not recommended to be moved by the moving company. If these items are taken, they are not covered through the mover. It is recommended that you move them yourself.
How long does a survey take?
Survey of your household goods varies with the size of your shipment. Surveys typically take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
