Asian Tigers Group provides international relocation solutions for more than 16,000 families each year, with offices in 14 different territories. In this instalment of their regular column, they discuss key factors when considering international moving companies in Hong Kong to help with your relocation.
Selecting a Moving Company in Hong Kong
Faced with an international relocation, most people eagerly research their new destination country. Their thirst for knowledge of their soon-to-be-new-home knows no bounds. But those same people seldom invest that much energy in selecting a moving company. This is curious, because they will soon entrust that mover to pack and move their most precious and worldly possessions – a lifetime of experiences and memories, turned over to strangers.
Shouldn’t that decision be given equal weight?
Knowing what to look for when considering moving companies is essential in making the right choice; a choice that will affect you – good or bad – for years to come. So what do you look for? Here are some things to keep in mind.
#1 Reputation
Be thorough. Reviews are a good starting point. Speak to your neighbours, look on the web in places like Google My Business, ask your employer for their opinions. Check on social media for posts. A negative review is bad, of course, but look beyond that to see if the company responded appropriately, and if they remedied the problem. That reveals a lot about that company’s character and culture.
#2 Internationality
Look for international moving companies. Be wary of smaller, local companies that claim to provide international moving services. International is vastly different, much more complicated and thus fraught with risks if you are not working with experts in the field. So, refine your search to companies specialising, first and foremost, in international relocations.
#3 Accountability & Responsiveness
If there were a single element for success in an international move, it would be clear communications. Does the mover communicate? Clearly? Frequently? Is their information accurate? Do they keep their promises?
#4 Problem Solving & Accountability
Things occasionally go wrong. That’s a fact of life in any business, and international moving is no exception. The acid test is how does the mover address problems when they arise. Do they solve it? Quickly? Do they present options? Do they keep you informed? Are they accountable for any errors they make? How do they “make-good” to you, the customer?
#5 Specialised Expertise
This a big, broad category but it’s also vital. One example of specialised expertise is knowing the myriad documentary requirements that surround an international move. Another is being on top of all the customs and duties issues on such shipments. There are countless others, too. They may be more than you’re likely ever to know; but professional movers will certainly know them.
About Asian Tigers – Hong Kong
Asian Tigers launched in HK 47 years ago and has racked up a long list of achievements and awards since then. The current team has over 1,000 combined years of experience, and in a typical year they move more than 500 families in and out of Hong Kong.
Need assistance with relocation or shipping support? Visit asiantigersgroup.com.
This article first appeared in the Spring 2023 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
