Removals to South Africa From UK

Excellent you have made the decision to start a new life in South Africa or you are an existing citizen looking at going home, what do I do next? from our experience the sooner the better is when to contact a professional moving company as they will have high-quality knowledge of what are the requirements for moving to South Africa, what you can and cannot move, and they can guide you through the moving process.

At Relo UK, the moving company we have professional move managers that can assist you in the relocation process, we can arrange for a no obligation pre-move survey by one of trained consultants or if you are time poor, we can arrange for a video survey at a time which is convenient to you. Our specialised consultants will advise you on which is required for a successful relocation from packing and collection through to shipping and what happens once it arrives in South Africa.

Please use our get a quote tab on our home page, fill in your contact details and we will have a consultant contact you, normally this process is within 24 hours of your request.

Our experience consultants will discuss your removal requirements with you, set up an appointment time for one our trained surveyors to call in and assess your requirements. At survey we will discuss with you the removal process, what is involved in a removal service to South Africa, your packing requirement, what you can and cannot move, whether you need additional services i.e., Pets, parking permits, crating, external hoists, and specialist handyman services.
During the visit, please accompany our consultant and show him everything you are intending to move, this may include opening cupboards and areas like lofts or cellars as well as outside areas garages and sheds, be as through as possible to allow us to provide you with an exacting quotation for removal service to South Africa.

Alternatively, to a home visit if you are taking smaller volumes or know exactly what you are taking, we can provide you with a self-survey form or if time poor a video survey assessment.

Furniture removal services are based on the overall on the volume of the shipment and in the UK the volume is measured in cubic feet, alternatively it can also be determined in cubic metres.

To determine the volume, three dimensions are required, Length x Width x Height which is then measured by multiplying the Length x width x Height of each individual item. For removal in metres, divided by 35.315, or in inches divided by 1728.
If time is of the essence, we can also provide an air freight service. Airfreight is calculated on either the weight / measure of the consignment whichever is the greater, invoicing will be once the actual final weight and dimensions of the shipment are known. As removal household goods tend to be volume based, the volumetric weight normally will apply, to determine the weight in kilos, the recognized international forwarders method is 1 m3 is equal to 167 kgs.
At Relo UK the moving company we have extensive experience in air shipments and can guide you through the various cost’s formulations.

Our quotation is valid for 28 days; this is due to the nature and vagrancies of international shipping which can be affected by currency fluctuations and increase in ocean and air freight costs.

We will provide you with a written quotation outlining the services offered and our contract conditions and exclusions. Prices will vary depending on whether you are packing your own consignment and / or we are doing a complete door to door service. Once volume and services parameters have been deemed and the volume is known we will then tailor make a quotation to suit your requirements.

Quotation normally excludes storage unless this has been requested at the quotation stage and has been included in the body of the quotation, Insurance cost is normally not included at time of quotation but can be added later. Council Parking permits or parking dispensation (unless otherwise specified). The following are normally not included, Carpentry or building services, dismantle / assembly of new kitset furniture. (IKEA), Difficult or abnormal access situation where ferry (shuttle) vehicle or additional labour is required, Heavy items or items needing special lifting equipment. (external lift, Piano / safe / pool or snooker table handling unless specially requested / and or otherwise specified in the body of the quotations).
In South Africa what is excluded are import duties, taxes or other sums due to government departments, such as X-ray fees, customs examination inspection fees, demurrage, quay rent, airline storage charges, cargo dues or container detention fees if incurred, and fumigation or steam cleaning if ordered, and any resulting treatment fees if applicable.
For further information on destination customs formalities and charges that may be payable on arrival please refer to our relevant destination country guide which will give you up to date information on removals into South Africa from the UK.

For international removals VAT is not applicable for overseas move, VAT is only applicable for UK domestic removal services I.e., storage, or ancillary services like handyman or external liftings or hire of specialised equipment.

As a first-class international removal company, normally we work on a fortnight notice is the best notice period to be able to plan and schedule relocation service, however we are constantly able to fit clients in a short notice for collection dates, and we have been able to accommodate clients with as little as 24 hours’ notice.

On booking of your removal shipping, we will take a 15% deposit to secure your nominated collection date. We will also send you a comprehensive booking email, which will advise the collection date and time crew will arrive to commence your removal, we will also supply you with a customs form to be completed, request a copy of your passport, and supply you with insurance information for your perusal. We will also request that the customer acceptance form sent with your quotation is completed and returned to our office, this can be done via email. Once your shipment has been collected, we will provide you with a final balance invoice which will be In accordance with our trading terms we will respectfully request that we receive payment of the invoice within 72 hours of it being issued.
Once payment has been received your consignment will be scheduled to depart as per your quoted terms. Of course if we can assist you further at any time please do not hesitate to contact our office on 01323 763689 or info@relouk.com

Prior to your moving day, our operations team will confirm the date and approximate time scale. Our crew will advise you on route if they are going to be late etc. Once crew has arrived at your collection address, show the packing team around and point out what is going and not going, our crew team leader will decide upon where best to start. Be sure to address any concerns you have before packing commences. Make sure you have everything you need for your travel arrangements (passport, airlines tickets etc.) in a safe place. Once the collection has been completed, make sure you have one final look around before removal team leaves. Everything checked and good to go. Now time to leave, your new destination awaits.

If the removal shipment is based on a groupage (shared) service, we will complete a warehouse measure once returned to our depot to confirm the volume, if additional items have been added or the volume is difference from the estimated we will advise the additional costs and invoice accordingly. If you are thinking of adding additional items above the agreed volume it is wise to talk first with your move manager prior to collection day, as additional items can cause extra charges. If your service is based on an exclusive use container, then we will add space permitting, please note additional charges may be applicable as these additional items will affect the quoted rate.

On booking of your removal shipping, we will take a 15% deposit to secure your nominated collection date. We will also request the completed customer acceptance at time of booking as this confirms the contracted conditions. Once your shipment has been collected, we will provide you with a final balance invoice which will be in accordance with our trading terms we will respectfully request that we receive payment of the invoice within 72 hours of it being issued. If you are looking at insurance we will require a completed declaration prrior to removal commencement date insurance premium costs will be added to your final balance. In the intial quotation email sent there will be a link which will take you to our terms and conditions (please read).
Once payment has been received your consignment will be scheduled to depart as per your quoted terms. Of course if we can assist you further at any time please do not hesitate to contact our office on 01323 763689 or info@relouk.com

Yes, no problem, what we will require is a purchase order form your present employer and contact details on who will oversee payments, as we will not have trading terms with your employer in place, our terms and conditions will still be 15% deposit on booking and balance of invoice 72 hours after collection. We will also require signed acceptance return to confirm the booking

At Relo UK the moving company we cover all of mainland United Kingdom with our own crews, for Ireland & Northern Ireland we have a sister company we work in conjunction with. Our extensive network of affiliates allows us to cover any European country, in fact we can cover anywhere worldwide

At Relo UK the moving company we have a dedicated team of expert removal professionals. International is all we do, and our staff are trained in packing and export wrapping techniques. We have set up our own in-house training modules, and we constantly monitor our quality packing procedures. With each individual removal we will complete the packing in your home, we only use purposed designed quality materials, each item is labelled, and the description is recorded on inventory page. Our team of expert packers are friendly polite and professional and will treat you and your possessions with the highest respect.

We source only quality materials and use the latest available on the market. We use a double grade cardboard carton and our export wrapping material exceeds what is normally available. Moving international has its own unique challenges and the packing materials must be able to withstand the rigors of an international relocation, we have a range of cartons, and we can say with confidence that from a book to a glass or your precious ornaments to your clothing, our quality materials and crew packing techniques gets the job done second to none.

With (PBO) packed by owner consignment, we will supply you with the same materials our crews would use ourselves, we can arrange delivery in advance prior to your collection day, with owner packed consignments for customs purposes we would require a list of each item you pack so we can be included with your removal inventory, as this will assist with the customs formalities in South Africa .

Making ready, lofts, garages and sheds etc should be cleared in advance of move day. Prior to our crew arriving it is a good idea to sort out what you want packing and what not. Dispose of anything that is not going to be relocated, take down electrical items from wall and if you still have original boxes get them ready for packers. On the moving day, it is a good idea to have driveways clear for vehicles, if required arrange parking suspension in advance, most councils have procedures that allow for parking suspension to be put in place, if moving from apartment with lift access a manual override key is a priority, dismantle any self-assembly furniture prior to moving day.

Dispose of any item that is not going to be located, our removal packers will empty and pack all contents from cupboards and drawers etc, have a designated area the packers will not access for any possessions you are taking yourself, make sure your passport and valuables are in a safe place and not with the items that are going to be packed. At commencement of removal do a walk through with team leader so all parties are understanding of the packing process.

Household effects are transported around the world by various methods, depending on the volume or quantity of goods for shipment, urgency of delivery and budgetary considerations. Depending on your volume as a guide a three-bedroom house would fit into a 20ft container whereas large houses four bedrooms or more, then a 40ft is the best option. Larger 40ft High Cube containers are also available depending on volume and destination. Sea freight charges are calculated on the overall volume of your consignment. Our consultants are experts when it comes to international relocations, and we will recommend the most appropriate container for your removal.

Groupage (Shared) service is the economically recognised method of shipping for smaller volume moves as you are saving money by sharing costs. Your household effects are loaded into a shared container with other ReloUK consignments bound for the same geographical destination as soon as sufficient volumes are available; this way you only pay for the container space utilised. As one of the largest groupage container operators in the UK we can offer frequent sailing dates on all major routes to South African cities.

We can service any South African destination, via our fast and efficient air courier service. If you require immediate access when you arrive then this service is for you, we can pack and air freight items such as your personal documents, tools of trade, laptop computers, baby accessories, seasonal or business clothing etc. We will export pack your possessions at your home, consolidate into air worthy cartons and transport to your new destination. Transit times vary typically between 7 and 10 days to the destination airport and allow 5 / 7 days once landed for customs and quarantine formalities.

Generally, under shipping companies’ conditions of carriage, items which are consider dangerous i.e., explosives, flammable gasses, lithium batteries, poisons & toxins, scuba tanks, gas cylinders, aerosol cans, ink that we cannot accept for shipping, other items that are recommended not be shipped are creams, liquids, food, cash, bonds, jewellery, alcohol (will be subject to duty), please refer to our Prohibited and Restricted Items fact sheet. For further information on items that may not be imported please refer to our relevant South African destination country guide.

CITES is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, an international agreement between governments to safeguard certain species from over-exploitation. Any item that is pre 1947 does not require a cites permit. If you are unsure if your items are a species controlled by cites, please check Cites website for further information. The provisions of trade under the Cites banner are various and range from live animals and plants to a vast array of wildlife products derived from them, including food products, exotic leather goods, wooden musical instruments, timber, tourist curios and medicines.
To apply for a CITES permit you will need to complete an application form (charges apply). You will also need to check any specific requirements with the intended import country. For further information please visit the CITES website. Please note we will require the CITES permit six weeks prior to your moving date; we are required to present the permit at the port of departure prior to container loading, failing which the certificate may be deemed invalid and the item may be denied entry at destination, or destroyed or returned to the UK, at your expense.

Relo UK the moving company have the Knowledge and expertise when it comes to shipping vehicles to South Africa from the UK, we pride ourselves that our understanding is widespread, and our staff have the knowhow, to give you expert advice on the strict rules on importing motor cars and motorcycles into South Africa.
With Relo UK you can be assured that your motor car or motorcycle, trailer or caravan will be handled by Experts. Relo UK have a fully bonded warehouse and as proud members of IAM (International movers association) this gives all our clients the peace of mind that they are covered under the overseas financial protection plan.

"Vehicle Import Approval is required for all motor vehicle to SA, and all vehicles must comply with the standards as set by the National Regulator (NRCS) and a Letter of Authority (LOA) must be obtained prior to shipping of the vehicle. We will not ship until approval has been granted, as shipping without prior approval is liable to cause delays plus add additional potential costs. For further information on import approvals The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa or contact our office and we can supply you with the required fact sheets.

Whatever your requirement we can explore several options for shipping of your vehicle to South Africa Depending on the type of Vehicle its size and your personal requirements we will provide professional advice from the first contact through to handover of your vehicle once it has arrived in Australia. Options available included and not limited to its own dedicated shipping container or we can consolidate with your household consignments into its own exclusive use container. Alternatively, we are able to offer a groupage consolidated service for a more cost-effective option.
The suggested types of containers available for moving vehicle to South Africa are 20ft containers and 40ft and 40ft High cube containers. Please contact our office for further information where one of trained consultants will be happy to assist.

Moving home is commonly regarded as the third most stressful thing we do, moving to a new home can usually be a chaotic and stressful experience. Our staff have been extensively trained to take every possible precaution to protect your property and possessions during your removal. We recognise that your personal possessions and property mean a lot to you.

Whilst great care is taken during the removal of your goods, we will do everything possible to ensure your possessions arrive safely, nevertheless there are many instances of risk for loss or damage which are beyond the removal companies’ control. Due to this Relo UK’s liability for loss or damage must be limited by our standard terms and conditions contract, which are incorporated into all removal, storage, and shipping contracts.
If you do not take out adequate insurance, your recourse against the removal company or subsequent carriers and third parties for loss or damage, if they are liable, may be limited. Other parties involved may include, for example, the nominated shipping company or airline, other transport operators, the Port Authority etc. These parties operate under separate contract conditions, or under international law or conventions that may limit or exclude their liability. If a loss occurs at sea the shipping company may declare a General Average loss (which is the cost incurred by the carrier to preserve the vessel and its cargo). In this case, you, as the ‘shipper and owner’ of the goods may have to contribute to the General Average loss incurred by the shipping company. This principle of contribution is an insurable risk and is covered by marine transit policy issued by Relo UK.
Insurance is a way of managing risks. When you buy insurance, you transfer the cost of a potential loss to the insurance company.
A transit proposal form will be provided with all our quotation extended. We advise you to read the information carefully; if there any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to ask.

At Relo UK we have a fully customs bonded warehouse, which is alarmed and fitted with CCTV cameras for added security, whether it is for a short period whilst in transit, or for a longer term, we can offer you with a competitive storage cost, prior to your removal shipping service to South Africa.

South Africa does require your presence in the country 10 days prior to the shipment arriving. We can arrange your storage at any of our major city warehouse complex and hold your shipment until ready for delivery Our storage facilities in South Africa are modern, Customs approved, and security protected, destination storage rates are available on request. Insurance may be extended to cover your goods whilst in store at a premium of 0.25% of the value you declare, per month or part thereof, upon your written instruction and payment of the appropriate insurance premium.
Please note that failure to extent cover and pay the insurance premium will render your goods uninsured, please refer to our standard terms and conditions.

At Relo UK the worldwide moving company, we have based our quality standards on exceeding the recognised industry standards of BAR and FIDI, we have own in-house standards procedures, as we only do international relocations, our crews are well versed on the latest packing and removal techniques. As a proud member of the international mover’s association, we are constantly monitoring industry standards, and our general manager does spot checks on the crews to make sure they are conforming to our high standards.

From your initial enquiry, you are allocated a consultant who will answer any questions regarding your move and will be your principal contact, from the quotation stage through to booking and once it arrives in South Africa at any stage of your move you will, also have contact, with our shipping & admin managers and our General Manager who will oversee your relocation, rest assured your removal to South Africa from the UK you are in good hands.

Once you have confirmed that Relo UK are to be your selected supplier, we will confirm your booking with a confirmation email, which will have all your shipment details and we will request the following information from you
1. Completed Acceptance/Customer Information Form
2. A legible copy of the details page of the “lead clients” passport (photo page) - Please ensure that we have the correct details for the “lead client” or person whose name the shipment will be in.
3. A copy of your residents VISA or work permit for your chosen destination - unless you are a returning passport holder.
4. Completed D304 South African Customs form
5. Completed Insurance Valuation Form - (should cover be required).

Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have authority to import your belongings into South Africa, so if in doubt contact the South African embassy. We are unable to ship your goods without your completed documentation and payment.

Once your shipment has been loaded into a designated sea freight container, we will notify you by email, we will confirm the shipping line, the container number and our designated partner office in South Africa that will be handling your clearance and deliver procedures. Once dispatched, all the relevant documentation is sent to our counter parts at your chosen destination who will check and make sure paperwork is correct, they will also contact yourselves and update you on the customs procedures and arrival date, if for any reason the shipping line arrival times changes whilst in transit our shipping department will also update you. Please note that you must be in South Africa a minimum of 10 days prior to the shipment arriving.

At Relo UK we do not have our own tracking website as you can track the container through the designated shipping line, we will supply you with the shipping line, vessel, and container number, please be aware vessel details may change during transit due to transhipment ports, but the container details will not.

You will need to be present in South Africa a minimum of 10 days prior to shipment arriving and our SA partners will contact you before your consignment arrives at the port. Once the container has arrived in port its collected and taken to our partners customs bonded warehouse where its unloaded and placed in a secure area awaiting customs clearance by the South African authorities. To assist us with your clearance you will be required to complete an unaccompanied effects statement which is a South African D304 customs form this can be completed in the UK before your departure or in South Africa. Once customs formalities have been completed, we will require delivery address and arrangement will be confirmed and designated delivery date given.

Quotation extend will be based on a door-to-door service and will included terminals, South African cargo dues, and custom clearance formalities, what is not included in our quotations are customs inspection fees, any customs duty or taxes on new goods are goods that do not meet the unaccompanied effects ruling.

We are a core member of the IAM (International Association of Movers), which is a governing body setup to check for quality assurance and customer service within the removal industry. This is very similar to the BAR (British Association of Removers) but instead of on a UK scale the IAM is recognised internationally so you have peace of mind here in the UK, and also at your destination, that the way your move will be conducted would be monitored and comply with agreed standards that are enforceable by the governing body wherever you are in the world at the time.

Your removal is constantly monitored by our team and in the unlikely event or any matter requiring attention our general manager will oversee and respond to your directly. If you have taken marine transit insurance that requires a claim, we will promptly send you a claim form and register your claim with the underwriters. At Relo UK we succeed on having your repeat business and personal recommendations, we therefore will remain at your disposal as client satisfaction is paramount to our core principles.

Our terms and conditions are based on standard international removal industry codes of practice, these conditions explain the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of all parties to this Agreement. Where we use the word 'you' or 'your' it means the Customer: 'we', 'us' or 'our' means the Remover. These terms and conditions can be varied or amended subject to prior written
agreement. Your attention is drawn to Clauses 4, 9, 10, 11 and 12 which set out our liability to you for loss of or damage to goods and property.

At Relo UK, we can assist with a range of ancillary service from pet transport, house cleaning, bespoke crate making, handyman service and currency direct financial transactions.

At Relo UK the worldwide moving company, we are not the biggest international mover, however our service is second to none, we have since our inception moved countless families and their possessions worldwide, we have an in-depth knowledge of removals to South Africa from the UK, and you can be rest assured the service we provide will be competent, friendly and at all times professional, we are proud of our reputation and look forward to moving you.