Choosing the Right Container for Overseas Moving
If you are planning on sending your belongings on a boat for an international relocation, you have probably been told that your things will go into a container for shipment. However, there are several different types of containers to choose from, and you should know the primary function of each, so you are getting the most for your dollar. Options range from open or closed, to temperature controlled and several options in between. Here is a quick guide to help determine what decisions to make concerning overseas moving.
The first and most common type of container for moving is a dry storage container. This is your standard moving container that you see all over the place, and they come in both 20 and 40 feet. You might be able to choose a 10 foot variety, but those are rare. They open from one end, and are perfect for most of your belongings. Variations of this include flat rack, tunnel, open top, open side, and double door containers. Open top and open side containers are pretty self-explanatory. Instead of opening on the end, they either open on the top, or on the side. Open top allows for taller items to be loaded, while open side makes loading easier, because you will not have to go the length of the container every trip you make while loading. Tunnel containers are almost exactly like dry storage, but they open at both ends. This makes unloading a lot easier and can help you with organization. Double door containers are also self-explanatory, as they have two doors that open for you on the side, as opposed to just one. Finally, flat rack containers actually fold down on the sides, and are perfect for a larger item that is exactly the size of the container itself.
If temperature control is a major factor for you, then you can choose to use a refrigerated or insulated container. A refrigerated container is kept at low temperatures, and are made for items that are perishable, so they will not spoil. Insulated containers are kept at higher temperatures, for items that can be damaged if they are in the cold. You can also use a container that is specifically designed to carry a vehicle, so if you are moving a car, enquire about one of these.
Other Things to Think About
Another option to consider while making your overseas moving plan is whether you want your container to be exclusive, or shared. An exclusive container will only be filled with your items, and shared containers will be filled with items from multiple parties. Shared containers are a cheaper option than their exclusive counterparts, but you items could get mixed in with someone else’s, and you will not have as much space to work with. So it is important to find out exactly how much space you need.
The best way to do that is to contact your international moving company, like Allied International, and get an estimate. An agent will come to your house and take measurements of your items, and even pack them for you, so you will know exactly how much space you will need. A good rule of thumb is that 20 foot containers can hold around three rooms worth of furniture, and a 40 foot container can handle six. This obviously might be different for you, depending on how much you have in each room that needs moving. You may also only need to use crates to move your belongings, which can also be shipped by sea, and you will not have to rent crate space in order for them to be moved.
