ÿþ<HTML> <style type="text/css"> A:link {color: black;} A:visited {color: blue;} A:hover {color: red;} </style> <HEAD><script language="Javascript"> <!-- //Slide Show script (this notice must stay intact) //For this and more scripts //visit java-scripts.net or http://wsabstract.com if (document.images) { button1 = new Image button2 = new Image button1.src = 'http://www.sefco-export.com/tokyobay_5.jpg' button2.src = 'http://www.sefco-export.com/tokyobay_5_light.jpg' } //--> </script> <TITLE> Steps to take when shipping your personal effects overseas </TITLE> <META name=keywords content="customs, customs info, overseas, moving, specialists, sefco, export management, export, ship, move, mover, import, sea, air, freight, transportation, expatriate, expat, pack, shipping, steamship, container, carton, crate, logistics, agent, removal, diplomat, abroad, liftvan, container, van, truck, auto, automobile, personal effects, international"> <META name=description content="Moving overseas? Find information on shipping, expatriate life, the cost of relocating to another country and much more! Interested in import-export? Sefco helps you navigate the world. SEFCO-Export Management Company, Overseas Moving Specialists www.sefco-export.com"> <META content="Joe Quinn, Sefco-export.com" name=author> </HEAD> <BODY background="http://www.sefco-export.com/ricebk.jpg" TEXT="#003300" LINK="#000000" VLINK="#0000CC"> <a name="top"> </a><center> <table width="85%" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="4" bgcolor="#A1A1A1" align="center"> <tr> <TD><center> <table cellpadding="2" bgcolor="gold"><tr><td><center> <table bgcolor="#1C1C1C" cellpadding="15"> <td class="btnav" onmouseover="style.backgroundColor='#26466D';" onmouseout="style.backgroundColor='#191927'" width="500"> <center> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/mo1.gif" border="0" alt="Free Overseas Moving Rate Request form - click here"></a> <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/waytogo.gif" border="0" alt="Free International Shipping Rate Request form - click here"></a> </center> </td></tr></table></center> </td></tr></table> </center> </td> <td> <center> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm" onmouseover="document.rollover.src=button2.src" onmouseout="document.rollover.src=button1.src" target="_blank"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/tokyobay_5_light.jpg" border="0" alt="Overseas Moving Specialists... LOG ON to get rates and view our online resources." name="rollover"></a> </center> </td></tr></table></center><br> <CENTER> <font face="Verdana, arial"> <br><font size="2"><strong> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/move.htm">Sefco Export Management Company, Inc.</a> </strong><br>Headquarters: NYC, USA - Overseas Moving Specialists - Agents Worldwide <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com">www.sefco-export.com</a></font><br> </font><br><table width="80%"> <tr><td> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/stepstotake.jpg"> </td><td> <font face="Verdana, arial"> <FONT SIZE="7"><strong><i>Steps to take...</i></strong></font><br> <FONT SIZE="+2"> Recommended procedures<br> for shipping your <br>household goods, personal effects <br> and/or vehicle, going overseas. </FONT></FONT> <br><br><font face="Verdana, arial" size="2"> <b> <a href=http://www.sefco-export.com/pasos.htm>Está pagina esta disponible en Español en </b><br> www.sefco-export.com/pasos.htm</a> </font> </CENTER></td></tr></table> <br> <CENTER> <table width="90%" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="10" border="8" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <tr><td> <center> <table width="85%"> <tr><td> <strong><font size="+3"> <font color="#436EEE"> <em>Thank you for your interest in our service! </em> </font> </font> </strong><br> <font size="+1" face="Verdana, arial"><a name="liftgatephoto"></a> <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sitemap.htm"><IMG SRC="http://www.sefco-export.com/liftgate-truck1.jpg" align="right" alt="ship your property overseas" border="0"></a> <br><font size="2" face="Verdana, arial"> <b>Sefco Export Management Company, Inc. </b><br> USA: Sales and Information Tel 914-293-7109<br> HQ administration: 718-268-6233 <br>"<font color="darkblue"><b>Overseas Moving Specialists</b></font>" <br><br><b>HHG/PE and Vehicle Shipping division</b><br><br> Worldwide Shipping Agents</font> <br> <br> Did you just submit a rate inquiry to us? <br>If yes, thanks! <br><br> Please expect to receive a rate confirmation from us by email, typically within 3 business days of your export inquiry. Allow 5 days for an import (to the US) rate confirmation. <br><br> If you are in a rush, <br>please be sure to let us know. </font> <br><br><font size="2" face="Verdana, arial"> If you have a new rate inquiry, please use: <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm">www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm</a><br> <br><ul><br> <font color="darkblue"><b>overseas hhg-household goods, pe-personal effects moves <br>overseas vehicle shipments - heavy equipment - international sea/air cargo</b></font> <br> <br>SLI Shipper's Letter of Instructions for Automobiles, Motorcycles, Boats<br> Personal Property, other equipment/commodities <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/sli.htm">www.sefco-export.com/shipping/sli.htm</a> - (Printer Friendly version)<ul> <p> For Non-HHG (household goods/personal property) consignments... <br><ul> Commercial Export/Import <a href="#tradelogistics"><font color="#000000">Trade Logistics and Guidance</font></a></ul> <br> </font> <br> <br> <p><center> <strong><font size="+2"> <font color="#436EEE"> www.sefco-export.com </font> </font> </strong> </center><p> <font size="+2" face="Verdana, arial"> General guidance and advice</font> <br><br> <strong> <font face="Verdana, arial" color="#000000"> Sefco Export Management Company, Inc. </font> </strong> <br> <FONT face="Verdana, arial" SIZE="2"> provides you the benefit of over twenty one years continuous experience in the field of shipping personal effects, vehicles and all kinds of cargo to destinations around the world.<br><br> <IMG SRC="http://www.sefco-export.com/thediplomat1.jpg" align="right" alt="up and out" border="0"> <b>Moving overseas?</b> Need to ship your property? There are several options available, presenting choices between cost and convenience. <P>Trying to find out how to do it all and for how much? Sometimes people can find the experience frustrating, by running into brick walls information-wise. Beyond finding out, often for the first time, what is involved in shipping goods abroad, there is also the interpersonal element, where you want to feel comfortable with whom you are entrusting your personal effects. We recognize this. By offering personalized service, working with trusted and capable transportation providers, carriers, customs brokers and other experts in the field, you can be at ease knowing competent people are looking after your valuable shipment. At <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/corporate-info.htm"><font color="#000000"><b>Sefco Export</b></font></a>, we are HHG/PE household goods, personal effects and vehicle export specialists. <P> When you give us the "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/toproceed.htm"><font color="#000000">go-ahead</font></a>" for your shipment, we will connect you to our working partners who will be in charge of your particular consignment. Including giving you the name, phone number and physical address of the overseas destination agent where you plan to go. We oversee and manage the entire process from A to Z. In many ways, we act as the guardian for your property while it is en-route to your overseas destination. <P><ul> We'll arrange with our forwarding/NVOCC</a> (shipping company) colleagues to assign you either a "control" or a "booking number". This is how your particular shipment is tracked. SEFCO is not a carrier, we are a non-asset based 3PL logistics company working with the best providers in the industry, and have long-established GSA sales agreements with OA origin agents, DA destination agents, NVOCC consolidators, IFF's international freight forwarders, CHB customs house brokers, O/C on-carriage truckers, EIS export inspection services and other professionals located throughout the world. Our 20+ years of experience and carefully trained personnel are at your disposal, here to serve your needs and provide the professional support services that you require. Please <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sefco_registration.htm"><font color="#000000">REGISTER</font></a> for our closest attention and care. </ul> <P><strong> Surf </strong>our website <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com"> <font color="#000000"><b>www.sefco-export.com</b></font></a> <br>...and explore our hundreds of featured links. <br><br> <strong>Learn</strong> more about the whole overseas moving process. <br><br> <strong>Use </strong> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sitemap.htm"><font color="#000000">our site map</font></a> to help you get around. <br><br> <strong>Peruse</strong> our "<font color="#000000">online information resourcesk</font></a>", for a wealth of useful internet links. <br><br> <strong>Access</strong> our on-line guides, PDF documents, self-help/self-service tools and <b><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/informal-advice.htm"><font color="#000000">informal advice</font></a></b>. <br><br> <strong>Check out</strong> our <a href="#hyperlinks"><font color="#000000">hyperlinks</font></a> to help you learn more about the overseas moving and shipping process. <br> <br><img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/worldwide-info.jpg"><br><font size="2"> photo: info desk at the United Nations </font> <br><a name="askus"></a><br> <font size="+2"> <font color="darkblue"> Ask us... </font> </font> <br><br> Things you should think about. <br><a href="#payment1"><font color="#000000" size="+2">Did you know...?</a></font><br><br> <font size="2" color="#000000">QUESTIONS and ANSWERS: <br><br><DD> <b>Can you <a href="#payment1">deduct the cost of your overseas move</a> from your personal taxes? </b><br> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Answer: Probably! - </font><a href="#payment1"><font size="2" color="#000000">read on</a> <br><br> </font> <font color="#000000" size="2"><b>Need full premium service D/D overseas moving services? </b><br><br><DD> To book our best export packers, reserve warehouse facilities, make firm SSL-nvo/carrier reservations, and send <a href="#preadvise"><font color="#000000">pre-advise alerts</a></font> to our overseas D/A destination agents, please be sure to give us your deposit at least 4-6 weeks ahead of your desired packing/pickup date. Prime days for origin service during the summer season must be reserved well in advance with a signed contract and deposit received. <br><br><ul>Send all paperwork and instructions to: <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm"><font color="#000000">Sefco Export Management Company, Inc.</font></a><br> 1 Ascan Avenue PH-74, Forest Hills, NY 11375 - USA <br>Main telephone: 718-268-6233 </font> </ul><br> <font size="2" color="#000000"><b> Did you know...?</b></font><DD> <font size="2" color="#000000"> "...most vessels are operating at full capacity and with demand at all time high thanks in part to a weak dollar. Space is at a premium for individual HHG-household goods shipments. With this in mind my recommendation to you is to book early, at least 4 weeks in advance of scheduled departure date".<br> <br>Learn more by accessing our free online <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/onlinefeatures.htm"><font color="#000000">export-import shipping guides</font></a> and periodic <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/portnewsupdates_2007.htm"><font color="#000000">port news updates</font></a>. <br><br> <hr><font face="Verdana, arial"> <br><br> Shipping personal effects along with a car? </font> <br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/rorositemap.htm#top1"><img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/roroship-sefco2.JPG" align="right" border="0" alt="click here to find out more about RoRo shipping"></a> <ul> If you are planning to <br> &nbsp; <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/rorositemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000"><b>ship your automobile</b></font></a>...<br> ...to and from the USA, you can use a special "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/rorositemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">RO-RO</font></a>" <br>roll-on/roll-off auto-transport vessel. <br><br>Access the information on our website <br>to find out <b>"how to"</b> and <b>"how much"</b>. <br> <br>[see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/carshipper.htm"><font color="#000000">car shipper</font></a>, and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/caradvice.htm"><font color="#000000">car advice</font></a>] <br><br><b>Vehicle Export</b> <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/car-faqs.htm"><font color="#000000">Frequently Asked <b>Questions</b></a></font> <ul> <br> "Does the car have to be empty to ship it?"<br> <b>Answer</b>: "If sent via <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/roro1.htm"><font color="#000000">Ro-Ro Ship</font></a>, <br> yes, it should be basically empty." </ul> <br>You <font color="#000000"> <b>can not </B> </font> load your car with personal effects. <br>Customs at origin may say "take it out" and the SSL-steamship line clerk signing for the unit will not be liabile for any contents - they only sign for 1-unit - the vehicle itself. <dd> The only time you can include personal effects/household goods with an automobile<br> ...is when it's going into an exclusive-use <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">FCL-full container-load</font></a>. Sending a vehicle in an exclusive-use FCL ocean container often costs 2 to 3 times more than shipping it via RoRo <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/rorositemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">roll-on roll-off</font></a> service. </ul> Ok, you ask: "So what's the cost to send our car and how can I proceed with my order?" Well, chances are the information you are looking for is already shown on our site. Please have a look: [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/caradvice.htm"><font color="#000000">car advice</font></a>] <p> What about shipping a motorcycle? <br>[<a href="#motorcycle"><font color="#000000">click here</font></a> to learn more...] <p> <font color="darkblue"><b>Have a very small yet precious consignment?</b></font> <br> Consider taking with you on the airplane, or <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sitemap.htm#air"><font color="#000000">air-freighting</font></a> your most important cargo, or use a small parcel service like FedEx for sending perhaps one small item - or simply mail very small quantities of personal effects. By sea, you can ship via <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">LCL less than container-load</font></a> ocean service. Small qualities can go into sturdy <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets2.htm#trunks"><font color="#000000">shipping trunks</font></a>. <b>Sefco Export</b> can arrange for airfreight service from anywhere in the United States. <br><br>Refer to our on-line <b>Sefco Export Air Guide</b> <br>Here, we'll help you to <strong>visualize</strong> your cargo's cubic footage volume and "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/calculate-weight.htm"><font color="#000000">international dimensional (DIM) weight</font></a>". Please see our <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/about-volume.htm"><font color="#000000">aircargo dim-weight guide</font></a> and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/air-gridindex.htm"><font color="#000000">air rate guide</font></a> for worldwide personal effects air-rates. <p><br><font size="4">Start here to learn some shipping basics.</font> <br><br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/about-volume.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/aboutvolumeimage.JPG" alt="CLICK HERE to learn more"></a> <br><br> <b>Learn the basics about volume/air-weight</b> by reviewing some of our regional air guides. <br> Small shipments under 40-cubic feet often move by air. <p> <font color="darkblue"><b>Have a "medium" amount of goods to be shipped overseas?</b></font> <br> The <b> LCL "less than container-load"</b> ocean shipping method is typically used for consignments measuring about 40-cubic feet or larger. <strong>F.Y.I. - </strong> 40-cubic feet takes up roughly the same volume as a typical American refrigerator. <br> Read more about this, on our guide: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/about-volume.htm">About Volume</a>. <p> <font color="darkblue"><b>By Sea: Two Basic Choices</b></font> <br> With ocean shipments your choice is between sending your goods as <strong>LCL-less than container-load</strong>, or by using the <strong>FCL-full container load</strong> method. In general, if you are sending over @ 350-cubic feet of furniture and household goods, you might as well use a 20-ft container for your own exclusive-use.<br><br> <font size="4">Is your international cargo<br> going to be shipped as <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1">LCL</a> or <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1">FCL</a>?</font> <br><br><img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/crate1.gif" align="left"> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#waytogo"><img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont-26b.JPG" align="right" alt="click here to see container inside and out" border="0"></a> <br> <strong>Picture this...<br> <DD> F.Y.I. </strong>You can fit about 25 average sized American refrigerators inside a standard 20-foot FCL container. That should give you a good idea of just how big these containers are. For more examples, photos and details about containers, check out our <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/onlinefeatures.htm#visual"><font color="#000000">photo gallery section</font></a>. <br> <br>See: Steel Ocean <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont4.htm"><font color="#000000">Containers</font></a>. <br> We know containers <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#waytogo"><font color="#000000">inside and out</font></a>. <br> <br>Sefco Export's web-site can help you... <DD> <strong>visualize the cubic footage volume</strong> of your cargo, as well as show you what <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse.htm"><font color="#000000">wooden liftvan crates</font></a> and roro/container-ships actually look like. [See: Our HHG <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cubesheet.htm"><font color="#000000">cubic footage guide</font></a> and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/gallery.htm"><font color="#000000">shipping gallery</font></a>] <p><br><br><font size="5"> <i>Moving Overseas</i> </font> <br><font size="4">HHG-PE household goods and personal effects</font> <p> <strong>Now, on to your overseas move... <p> A typical movement take place in three parts: </strong> <br><br><font color="#000000"> <b>1) </b>the <a href="#origin">ORIGIN </a> service<br> <b>2) </b>the <a href="#shipping">Shipping</a> & handling portion<br> <b>3) </b>the <a href="#destination">DESTINATION</a> service<br> </font> <P><br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/originrate.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/originserviceimage.JPG"></a> <br><br> <b>1) <a name="origin">Origin </a></b> <P> You can elect to have our <strong> <font color="#000000"> professional packers </font> </strong> come to your home to take care of everything for you, for greatest convenience.<p> See our Origin Services rate guideline [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/origin.htm"><font color="#000000">origin services</font></a> / <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/originrate.htm"><font color="#000000">origin rate guideline</font></a>] <br>to get an idea on cost. <P> This involves actual professional movers coming into your home with any & all materials as may be necessary, to pack everything from books, china, electronics, clothing, toys, hi-tech equipment, art, antiques, furniture, appliances and so on. With in-home export packaging, comes inside labor pickup, transfer outside, loading into either the <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">FCL container</font></a>, or loading into our packers truck for transport back to the export packing "O/A" (origin agent) warehouse, for liftvan crating and/or shrink wrapping with palletization. Pier delivery via truck would happen from there, for <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">LCL export consignments</font></a>. <a name="list"> </a> <P><br> After everything is packed they (or you) create a <b>"packing list"</b> for your goods. [<a href="#packinglistnecessary"><font size="1">CLICK HERE</font></a>] <br> Often - when professional movers handle a pickup - a numbered sticker is placed on each item and a corresponding list is made, looking something like this: <P> 1-carton-books<br> 2-carton-toys<br> 3-arm chair<br> 4-mattress<br> 5-package, misc. personal effects<br> 6-carton-personal computer<br> 7-box-cds<br> 8-couch... and so on. <P> If there is any pre-existing damage, then there will be an <b>"exception noted"</B> next to that item on the list. <p>Example: item # 48 - marble table top (*cracked)<br>item # 92 - chair (*leg broken)<br>item # 93 - carton-china (c.p.) --means Carrier Packed/professionally packed<br> item # 94 - carton-books (p.b.o.) --means packed by owner <P> Upon pickup it is signed and dated. You keep a copy, and we keep a copy. This is what they use to clear the goods through customs on the other end. A delay may occur at destination if they don't have a copy of the packing list, so this is important for you to have. From the moment you sign the list on date of pickup, you should keep one original signed copy. <a name="piececount"></a> <br><br><ul><font size="4">What's your shipments "piece count" ?</font><br> <br>We will need to know the <b> total piece count</b> for your consignment. Count each individual item on your packing list as "one piece". At the bottom of your packing list, add up the total number of pieces. This is what is known as the "piece count". We discuss this subject further on our "payment instructions" page [click here: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm#list"><font color="#000000">packing list</font></a>]. <p>When your export paperwork is processed, there is important information that has to be included, such as the total weight (in lbs. or kg), the total measurement (cubic feet or cubic meters) - also known as the "weight and measure", the total number of pieces, the type of shipping unit (i.e., one crate, 2 lift-vans, 3-swp shrink wrapped pallets, one 20-ft container, and so on.) If this information is not confirmed to us prompty - before delivery to the export terminal - it may be necessary (for security reasons) to delay or divert the pier delivery until this information is known. Storage and re-delivery charges can accrue, which is why it is very important to be timely in providing us with a copy of your packing list and other export information. </ul><br> <b> Note: </b> if the goods are professionally packed and unpacked, they can be insured against "all normal risks". If pbo-packed by owner, fpa/"named perils"-marine insurance is available. <strong>We strongly recommend that air or ocean/marine <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/insure.htm"><font color="#000000">cargo insurance</font></a> be taken.</strong> This cost is extra to the cost for packing and transportation. We generally work with TGI-Travel Guard International Insurance (San Juan Capistrano, California). <a name="cargoinsurance"> </a><br><br><ul> <a href="#askus"><font color="#000000"><b>"Did you know...?"</a></b></font><br> Read some <b>important pointers</b> regarding the limitation of carrier liability, as defined by the US Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 1936 ("COGSA"). [Learn more: <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=GGLD%2CGGLD%3A2004-48%2CGGLD%3Aen&q=Carriage+of+Goods+by+Sea+Act+1936+%28COGSA%29&btnG=Search" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">click here</font></a>] </ul><a name="packinglistnecessary"></a><br> <font size="4"><u>Shippers Must Produce a Packing List</u> </font> <br>IMPORTANT NOTICE: All cargo moving from/to different countries will pass through Customs at various border crossings, and Customs Authorities will need to know what is in any shipment. <a href="http://www.thebest-of.info/sefco_links/security1.htm"><font color="#000000"><b>Security procedures</a></b></font> have become very strict. Advance preparation is necessary and issues pertaining to Customs Requirements can not be an "after-thought". Any delay in producing clean and legible documentation suitable and acceptable by Customs authorities can result in storage and additional accruing fees. <br><br> View copies of professionally generated <br> SAMPLE PACKING LISTS: <br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/list8.jpg"><font color="#000000"> [list 1]</font></a> &nbsp; <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/list1-w-g.jpg" target="_blank"> <font color="#000000">[list 2]</font></a> &nbsp; <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/list2-w-g.jpg" target="_blank"> <font color="#000000">[list 3]</font></a> &nbsp; <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/list2.jpg" target="_blank"> <font color="#000000">[list 4]</font></a> &nbsp; <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/pack-list1.jpg" target="_blank"> <font color="#000000">[list 5]</font></a> <br><br><b>Sefco Export resources</b> - PDF file - Blank Packing List template: <br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/inventoryform.pdf" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">www.sefco-export.com/inventoryform.pdf</font></a><br> <br> Shipments moving over an interim country, known as <b>"trans-shipments"</b>,<br> will often require a <b>"valued inventory list"</b>. Often we receive such lists as Word files, PDF attachements, or typed lists by email. We'll review, and keep a copy in your shipment file. The following online form may help serve a guide. See: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/Sefco-Export_Packing_List.htm" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">valued inventory list</font></a> <br><br><a href="http://www.sefcologistics.com"><font color="#000000">Commercial Shipments</a></font> require a <b>commercial invoice</b>. <br> <br> See a standard "professional movers packing list": <br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/images/packing-list001.jpg" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">[packing-list001.jpg]</font></a> (420-kb) <a name="listform"> </a> <br> <br> <strong>More about the above sample list (001)...</strong> <ul> Click on the image URL to download and view it. Have a look at the "exception symbols". Notice the section that documents the items' condition at origin, and condition at destination. See how you - the property owner, certify that "we have checked all the items listed... and acknowledge that this is a true and complete list... and of the state of the goods received." Also note that it reads: "Before signing, check shipment, count items and describe loss or damage in space on right above..." This is important for insurance purposes. It applies to shipments that are professionally packed and professionally unpacked, door-to-door. This is how any potential claim for damage or loss, is documented. When the property owner and the mover both sign the verified packing list - at both origin and destination, this is how an insurance company can document any loss or damage. Otherwise, it would be difficult to verify any "exceptions" to the list. </ul> <b>Methodology</b>: <ul>Complete professional <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/originrate.htm"><font color="#000000">origin service</font></a> means that after everything is prepacked, the movers physically takes each item from inside the residence, to outside, curbside and loads the goods onto their truck (if not going directly into an ocean container) for "on-carriage" to either the packers own warehouse - for optional further packing into large wooden "lift-van" crates [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse2.htm"><font color="#000000">warehouse packing</font></a>] or for trucking direct from your home right to the <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">LCL-export shipping</font></a> terminal. Cargo shipped as LCL-less than container loads, should be well packed for export and secure. <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">Full container loads</font></a> (FCL) of HHG/PE - household goods/personal effects only - are most often loaded direct at your residence/door.</ul> <a name="deposit"> </a> <b>Timing</b>: <ul> Most often, we would need to make reservations with the SSL-steamship line/nvo carriers at least 2-4 weeks or further ahead of the move date. <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/communication_page.htm#truckernotice"><font color="#000000">Truckers need to be reserved</font></a> ahead of time as well. If going for our P-premium service <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/p-premium.htm"><font color="#000000">full D/D service</font></a>, plan even further ahead. To reserve and secure our best <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/origin.htm"><font color="#000000">OA services</font></a> - export packers/professional movers - we recommend sending your <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm"><font color="#000000"><strong>pre-shipment deposit</strong></font></a> to Sefco at least 4-6 weeks before packing/pickup is to occur. Where possible, <font color="#000000"> please use Federal Express.</font></a> Without a FedEx tracking number, "last minute" pickup requests cannot be accommodated. Particluarly in the busy summer season, our best packers require a couple weeks advance lead time to schedule a packing/pickup date. <br> [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm"><font color="#000000">where to send your payment</font></a>]</ul> <br> <a name="surveypolicy"><b>Export Survey Policy:</b> </a><p> A pre-move <a href="#housecalls"><font color="#000000">housecall</font></a> by one of our trained export packing agents (only if needed, to take measurements for any custom made crates or for special access situations) can be arranged upon request. A formal report is made, called the <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/export-survey-report.htm"><font color="#000000">ESR-Export Shipping Report</font></a>. You should already be a <a href="#housecalls"><font color="#000000">Sefco customer</font></a> (deposit received) for us to dispatch personnel to a pickup site. <br><br> If you are not already a Sefco customer, you should be prepared to pay for the surveyors fee. For a knowledgeable export surveyor to come to a private residence and create a detailed survey, which you can receive a precise detailed copy of, expect a charge of approx $ 175. 00 (depending on location) to be prepaid. When you subsequently use Sefco for your export packing/shipping, this fee is deducted from the OA origin service bill. <p> Due to high demand for our honest and reliable export inspection services, please understand that our surveyor gets paid to provide an on-site evaluation. If all you require is a quote by fax or email, this is an acceptable alternative. Sefco does not operate in the fashion that local movers operate. We operate in a similar fashion to such pre-shipment inspection companies as SGS [<a href="#sgsinspections"><font color="#000000">click here for info</font></a>]. The honesty and reliabilty of other companies is something we can not vouch for. For instructions on how to set-up and contract for a professional Export HHG Survey, please go to: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/agents.htm#exportsurvey"><font color="#000000">export survey</font></a> The balance for packing, pickup, etc. as quoted, should be sent to us by the day of pickup. Total payment (including insurance) should be settled before the ship leaves port. Please follow our general instructions regarding payment: [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm"><font color="#000000">how and where to pay</font></a>] New accounts are welcome. <br><a name="newaccount"></a><br> <table bgcolor="#CAE1FF" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="6"> <tr><td><a name="housecalls"></a> <br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/instructions.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/contractimage.JPG"></a> <br><br> <font size="2" face="Verdana, arial"><b>How to Initiate your New Account</b> <br><br> Want to go ahead with your overseas move? <br> Find step by step instructions, on <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/toproceed.htm"><font color="#000000">how to proceed</font></a>. </font> <br> <font size="2" face="Verdana, arial">A <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm"><font color="#000000">pre-service deposit</font></a> is required in order <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/#howtogo"><font color="#000000">to engage our services</font></a>. <ul>Please send to us... <li>signed agreement [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/instructions.htm">1 - instructions</a>] <li>your deposit [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm#amount">2 - funds</a>] <li>a copy of our email rate confirmation [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm">3 - rate agreed</a>] <br> <br>SLI Shipper's Letter of Instructions for Automobiles, Motorcycles or Boats:<br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shippers_letter_auto.htm">www.sefco-export.com/shippers_letter_auto.htm</a> - (Printer Friendly version) </ul> Once the deposit is received, we can begin to service your new account. <br><br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/shipping/rate_request_form.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/ratequoteimage.JPG"></a> <br><br>Pre-Shipment Export Survey Report (site visit with inspection report) - <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/export-survey-report.htm"><font color="#000000">details here</font></a> ($175) available upon request <br><br> <font size="2" face="Verdana, arial"> <b>Pickup Reservations</b> </a>- Are you already a Sefco customer? <br> Have you received your quote, accepted our service and sent back our contract form with your pre-move deposit? You will need to do this, so we can open your file and start making the necessary advance preparations. Our shippers instruction / contract form is online. [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/contract.htm"><font color="#000000">contract</font></a>] <p><b>New Bookings - Export/Import Reservations</b> can be initiated only after your paperwork and deposit have been received. Once acknowledged, our appropriate personnel with get things going in a professional manner. <p> Upon receipt of your deposit, our origin packing agents (within the USA and overseas) will be able to assign personnel to your job. If need be, we will be able to send a trained representative to the site to take any premove measurements for crates, etc. as may be required for the move. <b>Housecalls</b> can not be made before becoming a Sefco customer. Otherwise, please expect to pay for the surveyors fee in advance. Your pre-move deposit assures prompt service and careful attention to your needs. <br> <p> <b>Overseas Agents, Corporate Accounts, Diplomatic Accounts and Private Individuals</b> can obtain a professional site inspection and survey report by prepaying for our service - unless your Company or Mission already has an existing relationship and recent "track record" for using our company. Paying accounts always get top priority. Our export survey fee does not include long distance travel. HHG-household goods export surveys are performed within the normal operating areas of our Sefco-approved export packing operations, located throughout the <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/states.htm"><font color="#000000">USA</font></a> and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/agents.htm"><font color="#000000">abroad</font></a>. Please print-out a copy of our <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/surveyfee.jpg"><font color="#000000">proforma invoice</font></a>, write in your name and address, and send to Sefco with your payment [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/surveyfee.jpg"><font color="#000000">click here</font></a>]. You will receive an honest, accurate and professional survey report by experience personnel with <b>no pressure</b> and no "low ball" estimate games. When you pay a professional for good reliable service, this is exactly what you get - from <b>Sefco Export</b> and our agents. <br> <br>In lieu of an on-site, pre-shipment inspection, shippers can use our on-line survey form. <br>Fill in what you have and send back to us. We'll review it and give you our rate to pack and ship it. <br>Sefco Export's <b>online tools</b>: [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cubesheet2.pdf"><font color="#000000">click here for our online survey "cube-sheet"</font></a>]. <p><hr><p>Sefco Export Management Company, Inc. <br> <b>Information Services </b> - read about our approach toward providing timely market information to commercial clientele. <br> Order an <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/export-report.htm"><font color="#000000">Export Shipping Report</font></a>. Beware of <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/misconception.htm">MISCONCEPTIONS</a>. <br><br><center> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sefco_registration.htm"><font color="#000000" face="Verdana, arial" size="2"><b>Send in your retainer/deposit and register today to get our help and prompt attention.</a></b> </font></center><br> </td></tr></table> </blockquote><br><br><a name="smallmove"></a><font size="4"> LCL Less than Container-Loads </font> <br><br><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sitemap.htm#lcl"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemapimage.jpg" alt="visit out LCL site map" border="0"></a> <br><br> <font size="+2"> <font color="darkblue"> Smaller moves... </font> </font> <br><br> If you have a smaller sized shipment, for example - just personal effects and no furniture, the goods will most likely move via the "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1"><b>LCL</b></a>" - <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1">less than container-load</a> method. For larger moves, including several rooms of furniture, you goods will most likely to go direct into a "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1"><b>FCL</b></a>" <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1">full container-load</a>. <P> To get a better feel for volume, and to figure out whether you will need a <b>LCL</b>-less than container load, or <b>FCL</b>-full container load shipment, check out our <b> Cubic Footage Volume Guide</b><br> [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cubesheet.htm"><font color="#000000">cube sheet</font></a>] <p>See some photos of... <br> what furniture looks like after export packing. <br>[see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pack.htm"><font color="#000000">export packing</font></a>] <P>Learn more about the art of safe moving:<br> protection, conservation and preservation [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/originrate.htm#preserve"><font color="#000000">preservation</font></a>] <p><a name="largemove"></a><br><font size="4"> FCL Full Container-Loads </font><br><br> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/sitemap.htm#fcl"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemapimage.jpg" alt="visit out FCL site map" border="0"></a> <br><br> <font size="+2"> <font color="darkblue"> Larger moves... </font> </font> <br><br> Most often, with<strong> <font color="#000000"> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/fclsitemap.htm#top1">FCL-full container-load shipping</a> </font></strong> the steel ocean container is brought right to your door and everything is loaded right there, then the container is sealed, locked and trucked right away to the pier. The trucker has a tractor trailer that is connected to the container, which rests on top of a chassis with wheels. The driver will wait with the container for the normal 2 hours free waiting time, while the goods are "live-loaded" by you, or by the movers. <p> Sometimes, for an extra fee, the driver will "DROP and PICK" the container, so it is left at your door, and he comes back to pick it up a couple days later after its been loaded. This gives you more time to get everything loaded at more leisurely pace. <a name="equipavail"> <p> </a> Container/trucking rates are based on "<strong>availability of equipment</strong>". This means that if they don't have any empty containers at the port/SS line depot in your area, you may have to wait for one to become available. This can be due to "equipment imbalance" in the shipping trade route. Too many containers here, not enough there. <a name="timeliness"> </a><p> Once the container is loaded, it is meant to be "in motion" and en-route to its delivery destination (as booked) with no delays at the port of exit or entry. Nothing should go to the pier if it is not meant to be shipped out. <p> Timeliness is important. Rates are based on shipments handled on a <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/payment.htm#prepaidbasis"><font color="#000000">prepaid basis</font></a> only. Export documentation must be prepared and submitted in advance of shipping. Read our informal advice in the subject: "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/informal-advice.htm#timeliness"><font color="#000000">Port operations and timely presentation of paperwork</font></a>" Holding a loaded container will mean additional trucking charges to deliver it to a security yard off the pier, as well as per diem yard fees, chassis rental fees, and a re-delivery fee when it does finally go to the pier. This can amount to a couple hundred dollars, for short term delays of less than a month. Such costs would be borne by the cargo/property owner. <p> If the goods are at a location that is inaccessible to the trucker and container (parking restrictions, narrow alleys, etc.), the cargo may need to be brought from there to a location more suitable for loading. <P>If professional crating is required for goods being loaded into the ocean shipping container, it may be better for the FCL-container to be "positioned" for loading at one of our designated movers warehouse rather than try loading heavy crates at a residence-door. <a name="advice1"><p>About timing... <p>Re:</a> <b> FCL container scheduling</b> -- we never guarantee an exact hour arrival time for any container, as road conditions would make such things unpredictable. We can, however, give you a general window of time for the estimated time of arrival for the container; for example, "live positioning" the container at your door between 10-a.m. and 12:00 noon. Typically, the container trucking dispatcher will call you just before coming over, to make sure someone is ready and waiting at the desired place of loading. They want to avoid making a fruitless trip. <p> The current market conditions are such that there are not enough truckers out there, ready and able to "pull" all the ocean containers requesting service. As drivers become available, they are assigned container hauls by their dispatcher. Major delays at the ports, have a ripple effect on how many containers a trucker can "pull" and deliver in any given date. When truckers need to pickup an empty container from the piers, long lines can cause delays of several hours or even days. Is such an environment, patience is indeed a virtue. Read more about port conditions: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/portnewsupdates.htm"><font color="#000000">port news updates</font></a> <p> We do not recommend leaving things to the last minute, i.e., making plane reservations to leave the same day/next day as the container loading. We do recommend giving yourself at least two extra days between when you may plan to load a container and when you may depart the country. When Sefco arranges for <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/p-premium.htm"><font color="#000000">complete origin services</font></a> with a container move, we "marry" our packers - manpower/professional labor with all materials, to the container. This avoids having a labor force sitting around waiting for the container to arrive. If packing/loading is not arranged through our full service export packers, the container trucking is performed by SSL steamship line connected truckers. <p> It's always possible that a SSL container trucker can be delayed. If you are hiring local people to help you self-load a container, budget for extra waiting time for your locals - just to be safe. Sometimes its better to "drop and pick" a container at the loading site, leaving it there a couple days. However, this means the cost of trucking will be double, since the container trucker has to travel twice from port to door and back, rather than once - when they perform a "live load" container positioning - where the driver waits a couple hours while it is loaded, then it goes right back to the port. Read more about timing [<a href="#schedules">scroll down</a> and also <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/communication_page.htm#timing"><font color="#000000">click here</font></a>]. <br><br> Helping you to anticipate your needs is all part of our business. This website is meant to educate and better inform you about your options. <a name="containers"> </a> <p> View some photos of actual <strong>steel ocean-shipping containers</strong>. See their dimensions and specifications. Free advice about containers and special guidance. See how containers look when they are laden (or loaded) on-board the ocean-going vessel.<br> <br> [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont1.htm"><font color="#000000">1-look inside</font></a>] [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont2.htm"><font color="#000000">2-container photos</font></a>] [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont3.htm"><font color="#000000">3-buy a container</font></a>] <br> [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont4.htm"><font color="#000000">4-valuable advice</font></a>] [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont5.htm"><font color="#000000">5-specifications</font></a>] <br> [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cont6.htm"><font color="#000000">6-containers on-board</font></a>] [<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/how2load.htm"><font color="#000000">7-how to load it</font></a>] <p> Have a shipment that can't fit into a container? <br> Learn about "break-bulk" and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse3.htm#mode"><font color="#000000">Non-standard Modalities</font></a> <br> <br> <br> For <strong><a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#top1"><font color="#000000">LCL-less than container-load shipments</a>,</font> </strong> the goods are brought to our nearest designated receiving warehouse, for on-forwarding from there. <P> If you elect to go the "packed by owner" PBO-route, by packing everything yourself, then this is one way you can possibly save money. But be sure to do a good job. Most goods going into a "consolidation container" are loaded by "high-low" fork-lifts, so its a good idea to make sure the goods are - at least - well secured, corrugated, plastic shrink wrapped and banded together so it sits securely on a shipping pallet. This is not necessary when goods go directly into your own FCL container, but if it's going "as LCL", then more export packing is better than less. Read more about this subject, h'ere: "<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#lcl2">LCL guides and tips</a>" <br><br><table><tr><td> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/loadcontr.jpg"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/loadcontr1.jpg"><br><font size="2"><font color="#000000"> click the photo<br> to see close-up view</font></font></a> </td><td> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/loadcontr2.jpg"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/loadcontr3.jpg"><br><font size="2"><font color="#000000"> we provide to you <br>the "know how" and resources </font></font></a></td> </tr> </table> <p> If you are looking to buy your own packing materials, moving cartons, bubble-wrap, tape, etc., [see:<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets2.htm"><font color="#000000">pallets</font></a>] our website has links to on-line vendors who will UPS everything to you in a matter of days. Prices for a variety of cartons are shown and most packing/shipping material vendors will take credit cards. <p> <a name="superbox"> </a> <blockquote> <table width="90%" bgcolor="#FFFFF0" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="6"> <tr><td><br><font size="2" face="Verdana, arial"> <b> Just shipping a small amount of personal effects, and prefer to pack it yourself? Here's an economical way to do it! </b> <p> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/box-and-ship.htm"> <img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/boxandshipcargo.JPG"></a><br><br> Buy a <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/box-and-ship.htm"><font color="#000000"><b>"super box"</b></a></font> on-line, have it delivered to your door. Then take your time, pack your own goods. Unless you prefer for our professional movers to come and pack it all for you, you can go for a "do it yourself" option. Send us a certified copy* of your packing list (*ask us for details). Personal effects only, <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/safeandsound.htm#nonhazardous-only"><font color="#000000">nothing hazardous allowed.</font></a> We will give you a flat rate for one "super box" or two or more... going to practically any destination overseas, by sea or by air. These super strong, large shipping cartons will fit perfectly onto a 48" x 40" x 40" <b>pallet</b> [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets.htm"><font color="#000000">pallets</font></a>]. Each super-box takes up approx. 45-55 cubic feet volume. Have your palletized carton ready for our common carrier trucker to pickup from your curbside/door. We'll take it from there. <br><br> <b>Learn more about this service <br> [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/box-and-ship.htm"><font color="#000000">box and ship</B></a></font>]. <br><br> View a photo and get a price for buying a 350-lb test/corrugated <b>"super box"</b> shipping container. Saying "350-lb test" means that a 350-lb man can stand on the carton and it is supposed to withstand that weight. <br><br> Did you know that you can actually buy a "knock down, prefabricated shipping crate", online? Prices start at $ 160.00 Sefco does not sell packing materials but we can tell you who does. <br> <b>When you're ready, we'll pickup and ship it overseas.</b> </td></tr> </table> </blockquote> <br><strong> Planning to use your own "exclusive use" FCL ocean container? </strong> <p>Exporting from the USA? <br> In some cases you can load the container yourself [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/economy.htm"><font color="#000000">economy</a></font>] but you'll need to make your own detailed packing list and follow certain instructions we will give to you. Please be aware that broadened <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/security1.htm"><font color="#000000">security measures</font></a> are in effect, post 9/11. [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/safeandsound.htm"><font color="#000000">security review</font></a>] <p> Importing to the USA? <br> Rates do not include labor/storage or additional customs handling charges in the event of intensive examination by <a href="http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&q=US+Customs+and+Border+Security"><font color="#000000">US Customs and Border Security</font></a>. If your import cargo is selected for intensive <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/safeandsound.htm#alphachb"><font color="#000000">examination</font></a>, the actual cost can be remitted by the property owner directly to the CET-customs exam terminal and US Government (if dutiable) per official receipt. <p> On our website - View photos of containers being loaded <br> [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/how2load.htm"><font color="#000000">how 2 load</font></a>], and get a free video from U-haul about stacking and loading household goods. <a name="pboshippers"> </a> <P> If you pack everything yourself, but don't have the means to physically take everything out from your home, then you'll still need "the movers" (physical labor) to perform an "inside-pickup" with manpower. It's up to you, if you prefer full p-premium service - where we "do it all" for you, or economy service - where you can "do it yourself". The same service parameters apply to deliveries. A trucker delivery to door only, is not the same as a premium level inside of residence delivery by trained movers who unpack every item (professionally export packed and then unpacked). Premium service LCL deliveries cost of multiple of the amount payable for a "straight trucking door delivery" (only). [read more on this: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/lclsitemap.htm#daguidance"><font color="#000000">click here</font></a> ] <P><b> LCL Less than Container Loads</b><br>If you can bring your PBO-packed by owner cartons outside and make them accessible to our trucker for a straight "curbside/loading-dock" style pickup, then you can save more by eliminating the need to dispatch our <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/how2load.htm"><font color="#000000">professional OA-origin agent packers</font></a>. Smaller loads of <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets.htm"><font color="#000000">securely packed/palletized</font></a> and crated goods are often collected by <b>our network of airport-based truckers</b>. They only work on a company to company basis upon our formal instructions (not offering their service retail to the public) and can pickup on very short notice - and "rocket" your LCL cargo right away to our designated export terminal. <P>Depending on the origin pickup location, one may find that professional truckers and common carriers will not accept freight that may be better handled by movers. Long distance truckers will readily pickup professionally packed freight from a movers warehouse, while balking at a residential pickup. Besides being an issue of whether the goods are properly packed, it tends to be a judgment call by the truckers local dispatcher. Please be advised that <b>LCL truckers are not "movers"</b> and should not be expected to provide any labor or pre-packing. That's a job better for the professional packers - the "mover men and women". <P> A straight trucking pickup can typically be arranged - operationally - on relatively short notice (3 days). But if you know you will need to use our service, do not wait until the last minute to get your check/deposit and paperwork into our office - well ahead of time. <b>A cost comparison</b> - Compared to "complete origin services", trucking-only (no labor or packers) can work out quite favorably price-wise. More work for you to do, means less money to pay to someone else. If you can make it easy for our trucker to receive the goods, then we can get a favorable rate. <P> If your goods are "standard dim", without being unusually shaped or very large items (i.e., a piano), then this makes things easy for the trucker to receive. If you elect to pack the goods yourself, common sense rules apply. Have each box sturdily taped, and numbered. <b>Do not</b> pack any <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/safeandsound.htm#nonhazardous-only"><font color="#000000">hazardous cargo</font></a> in your shipment. <P> Should you have a couple particularly heavy items, at a reasonable extra cost we can make sure to dispatch a "lift-gate" trucker, bearing in mind that most common carrier trucks ride about 4-feet up off the ground. Lift-gates are pneumatic lifting platforms used to raise the freight from street level to truck level. <P><br>Surf our image gallery [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/gallery.htm"><font color="#000000">gallery</font></a>]<p> <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/gallery.htm"><img src="http://www.sefco-export.com/van.gif" alt="photos!" border="0"></a> <br> <P> Most commercial truckers come and go between warehouse loading docks which are level to the back of the truck, rather than pulling up in front of a residence which is of course at street level. <P> You can elect to bring your pre-packed and "ready to go" freight into our designated export shipping warehouse yourself, and save the cost for in-land trucking and/or movers from your door. <P> Your goods can go "as is" (not advisable unless very well packaged), or for reasonable extra cost, we can instruct the warehouse to have the cartons placed onto square wooden pallets, so they are raised up off the ground. If we "palletize" the goods for you, they will also typically place plastic shrink-wrap all around the goods and then band everything together so it forms a square unit for easier handling. Most of our mover-based receiving depots can handle shrink-wrapping and palletization, as well as liftvan crating where required. <p> A typical pallet load can range from 40 to 80 cubic feet in size.<br> <b> Pallets</b> are also known as "skids" [see:<a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets.htm"><font color="#000000">pallets</font></a>] <P>For LCL-less than container-loads that include furniture and many fragiles, consider using wooden <b>lift-van packing.</b> When <b>complete origin services</B> is requested, the mover will provide the lift-van. An average prefabricated lift-van takes up about 200-cubic feet gross volume, each unit. Unless a professional mover is involved, lift-vans may be difficult to find. <p> The LCL export shipping warehouses [see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/cfs.htm"><font color="#000000">cfs warehouses</font></a>] are typically open Mondays through Fridays only, excluding holidays, from 8 am to 4 pm for receiving freight, with a break at lunchtime. <P> Please always make an appointment first before showing up with your freight. We'll give you your specially assigned control/booking number, so the warehouse receiving foreman will know in advance who you are and what they are supposed to do with your goods. Without that number, you goods will not be accepted. <P> For good order we'll give you a contact name and direct phone number at the receiving warehouse, so you can call for driving directions. <P> Usually within 1 or 2 days after the goods come in, we'll get a fax report from the warehouse showing us the actual "pieces, weight and cube" of your shipment. The shipping company's bill of lading will also show this information. <a name="oktogo"></a> <P><font size="4"><strong> Regarding cubic footage volume...</font> <br><font size="5">Is it "ok to go"? </font></strong> <br><br> After the measurement is taken and confirmed, if everything is in order, we'll then give it the official "ok to go". If we expect to receive, for example, 20 cartons totaling about 80 cubic feet, but instead receive 60 pcs. at 240-cubic feet, then we'll ask you first if you really want to ship that volume of goods. This way, there are no surprises and we work transparently together to get the job done right. <p>More about the "<a href="#piececount"><font color="#000000">the piece count</a></font>"... <ul> It's better to "unitize" smaller cargo into larger shipping units. For example, its better to receive (1) one pallet with 20-pcs (already secured onto it), rather than receiving 20-pcs of "loose" cartons. Most often, LCL-less than container-load cargo is palletized or packed into crates. This keeps down, the overall number of pieces. If you can secure your pbo-packed by owner goods onto a pallet - or load your goods into an export crate yourself, it's going to work out to your advantage, financially. This pre-packing (for export) allows for smooth receiving and on-delivery via our <b>commercial-freight</B> oriented receiving warehouses. At these "<b>non-mover</B>" receiving warehouses, practically everything moves in and out on pallets. </ul> <P> One operational note: people often take the precise cubic footage (H"x W"x D" divided by 1728 = volume) of each item and add it all up, to mathematically determine the total volume being shipped. Please bear in mind that there will always be a certain "fungibility factor" where there is going to be a small amount of air-space in between each carton, when finally stacked together in one or more overall square lots. After being palletized its not usual to see a 10% expansion factor. If there are unusually shaped items, this can make for a "poor fit" of the goods when placed together in a square - thus increasing the overall volume being displaced. <br><ul> <a name="lift">If sending</a> an LCL shipment including fragile antiques, the goods may be packed into <strong> <font color="#000000"> wooden lift-vans </font> </strong> for added protection. Lift-vans increase the gross size of the goods, after being export packed. If it's a combination of export-packed furniture (bubble or corrugated cardboard protected) and cartons, it can still move "loose" packed, when routed via our mover-based receiving warehouses (e.g., Boston, NYC, Chicago, Miami, LA, Baltimore). Most of our designated export shipping terminals, called CFS-container freight stations, do not get involved in packing anything, only receiving/shipping. <p> You can view photo's of lift-vans, crates, cases, and shrink-wrapped skids in our on-line gallery. <br>[see: <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse.htm"><font color="#000000">warehouse operations</font></a> and <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse2.htm"><font color="#000000">CFS container freight stations</font></a> also <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/whse3.htm"><font color="#000000">loading docks</font></a>] <p> Here's a point to consider: beside the cost of having a professional mover pack everything into these lift-vans, then re-delivering the goods from their local facility to our export shipping warehouse, bear in mind that there will be an expansion factor of about 20% from the net volume - uncrated, to get the final gross - crated volume. If you have unusually shaped (very long) items this can make for a poor fit. LCL shipping costs are based on the total outside gross volume after packing. So there is a cost/benefit to be considered. <p> Some destinations require lift-vans, others don't. If you just have pre-packed sturdy cartons, lift-vanning may be over-kill. "Loose pack/loaded" into an exclusive use FCL container, or on pallets going into consolidation container, may be sufficient. Still, in general, if the object is to assure the safety of the goods being shipped, <strong>stronger and more secure packing is always better than less secure</strong> protection/packing for the cargo. A crate is always safer for the cargo than if it is not crated, but it comes at a cost. If you have a small, dense quantity of personal effects, consider buying and using a sturdy shipping trunk. Our website has plenty of links to <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/pallets2.htm"><font color="#000000">outside vendors</font></a> of packing/shipping materials. Have some questions? <a href="mailto:info@sefco-export.com"><font color="#000000">Ask us</font></a> if not sure.</ul><br> Our <a href="http://www.sefco-export.com/p-premium.htm"><font color="#000000">P-Premium Service</font></a> export packaging for LCL cargo includes preliminary pre-packing, pickup, local transport and then further packing and loading into export quality wooden crates/cases, heavy-duty plastic sheeting applied inside the crate for waterproofing, woodshop nailing and finishing, steel/poly banding and calking/sealing around all edges. All crates and cases are made so they are lifted a few inches off the groun