Moving to Belize

The removal company may come to your home, but they may also take your word on the phone. It is important to estimate accurately because, when the container you have requested is full, it is full. You will have to specify which objects require special care (special packaging etc.) and what you will do yourself (disassembly of furniture, packing dishes, etc.). You can find a carrier or a mover on the internet or in the yellow pages. Get more than one quote so you can find the best price and set of services for you.

Regarding the quote, ensure you know the following details:

• Whether or not they will be packing the shipping container for you
• Whether or not they are packing boxes for you
• Whether or not insurance is included
• Whether or not customs duty is included
• Whether they will deliver to your home or simply to the port (and which port)
• The carrier's benefits
• Price

Before you leave for Belize

It is more common to route your belongings directly to your new home. However, some carriers only deliver to the port. You will then have to hire a customs broker to help get your shipment through the customs process. It is wise to check the customs site in advance to get an idea of how much duty you will pay. You will then need to hire a local mover to move your items from the port to your home. The customs process can take more than one day, so stay in close contact with your mover so you don't have to pay them to stand around waiting for you. Ask around for information and recommendations of movers in Belize. Very few are on the Internet.

It is important to make a list of your belongings, as comprehensive as possible, in order to establish a value statement. The value statement is a document which allows you to get compensation in case of loss or damage to your property. You must fill it yourself, specifying your property's overall value as well as the value of some assets which could exceed the contractual limit value. An estimate cannot be established without this statement. For customs purposes, you will want to value your things at garage sale prices, but for insurance purposes, you would want to be able to replace them if they are damaged. You just have to find a balance.

Accordingly, a damage insurance will be offered by the carrier. This insurance can cover non- predictable transport damage of your property according to the value you specified in your statement. The cost of this insurance will depend on the total value of your property. An insurance certificate will be given to you by the shipping company.

Transporting your belongings

Finally, you will have to sign for your belongings at the times of loading and delivery. This consignment contains the terms of the contract, mode of transport, volume transported, the customer's name and address and the shipping company, etc. Once you sign this letter, you will be giving the green light to the shipping company to proceed with the move.

Generally, you will pay for shipping costs before loading and for customs upon delivery. You can as well pay once at your convenience if you are using a company that handles customs for you.

Important:

If you require the services of a customs broker, ask other expats for recommendations. Not all of them are honest or efficient.

Good to know:

You are advised to check in advance with the Belizean Embassy and/or Belize Customs about international shipments to be aware of specific provisions or to obtain information on banned products etc.

Useful links:

FEDEMAC - Federation of European Movers www.fedemac.com
FIDI - The International Federation of International Movers www.fidi.com
Belize Customs Department www.customs.gov