The HR & Global Mobility Guide to Employee Household Goods Moving Quotes

This guide was created to help HR and global mobility professionals gain clarity and confidence in reviewing moving quotes by breaking down where costs come from, what affects them, and how to spot potential risks.

When you understand the true scope behind the numbers, you’re better equipped to support your relocating employees with positive experiences, avoid costly surprises, and make fair, informed decisions on vendor selection.

In this article we will cover:

• Key Components of a Quote
• Cost Drivers Explained
• Inclusions and Exclusions
• Customs Inspections, Duties and Taxes
• Why Prices Vary
• Best Practices 
• Comparing Quotes Checklist
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Key Terms

Most international moving quotes are structured to cover the full door-to-door journey. This typically includes every stage of the move - from packing at the origin home to delivery at destination. 

For example, a move from the Midwest USA to Europe might involve:

• Packing and loading at the origin home
• Road transport to an inland container terminal
• Rail transport to the port of departure (often more cost-effective than road alone)
• Sea freight to the destination country
• Customs clearance upon arrival
• Final road delivery to the new home

Each of these steps involves different services, partners, and cost drivers. A comprehensive quote should cover:

• Origin Services (e.g. packing, crating, labour, access)
• Transport (e.g. road, sea or air freight, surcharges)
• Destination Services (e.g. customs clearance, unpacking, delivery)
• Additional Costs (e.g. insurance, storage, access-related charges)

Understanding which services are included, and how they are broken down, helps ensure accurate comparisons and reduces the risk of hidden or unexpected fees.

Here's an example of some of the factors that may go into each part of your shipping quote: 

Transport Costs

Transport is often the most visible line item but also the most variable. Costs can differ based on the mode (sea, air, or road)  and container type (e.g. 20'/40') and shipping method ( Exclusive or Part load).

• Transport from residence to port
• Freight (Air / Sea / Road)
• Transport from port to residence
• Port Charges

Transport is also the most common element to have surcharges applied.

Freight costs will vary depending on the shipping method.

International Freight Options

International shipments move via air or sea. For sea shipments there are various options depending on requirements:

• Full Container Loads for exclusive use
• LCL or Groupage shipments for shared loads.
  • Less than container load (LCL) shipments are loaded in a wooden crate or palitised before being consolidated by a freight forwarder into a single container for shipment.
  • Groupage shipments are consolidated by the moving company with customers routed to the same destination sharing the costs of space within a single container. 

Below is a quick breakdown of the typical requirements where each might be best:

Road Transport Options

When moves travel by road (within Mainland Europe, domestically, etc), these will either go as an exclusive load travelling directly from door to door, or as a part load, with smaller moves sharing the costs of transport with other customers with the same routing on a pre-determined schedule. 

Main influencing factors on transport costs

Aside from the method of transport explained above, there are other reasons the transport cost can vary for sea shipments:

• Speed of sailing: The speed and route of a sea freight sailing can significantly influence its cost. Shipping lines offer different services. Some sail directly from origin to destination, while others take longer indirect routes with multiple port stops or transhipments (where containers are transferred between vessels). These slower sailings are typically cheaper because they optimise space and fuel efficiency by consolidating loads and sharing capacity across routes. In contrast, faster, direct sailings often cost more due to higher fuel consumption, fewer cost-sharing opportunities, and priority space on the vessel. Additionally, container availability and seasonal demand (e.g. during peak moving months) can also affect sailing options and pricing.
• Where the container can be loaded: Sea freight shipments are often more cost-effective when a container can be loaded directly at the residence during packing and delivered straight to the final address at destination. This approach avoids additional handling, transfers, and storage fees at warehouses or ports. However, this efficiency is only possible if access allows, and the assignee has completed all required customs documentation well in advance of the pack date, and has a confirmed delivery address before the container arrives at the destination. If these elements aren’t in place, the shipment may need to be held at port or moved to storage, incurring additional costs and delays. Early coordination and planning are key to unlocking the best value from sea freight.

Surcharges Explained

A surcharge is an additional fee applied to the moving quote to cover specific, often external or temporary, costs that are not included in the base price. These charges are typically related to regulatory compliance, infrastructure conditions, or unusual transportation requirements and can vary by region, route, or time period.

Common examples include:

• LEZ (Low Emission Zone) Surcharge – Fees for using vehicles that meet environmental standards in restricted city zones (e.g. London, Paris).
• SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Surcharge – Covers compliance with international regulations requiring verified container weights.
• Canadian Low Water Surcharge – A temporary fee applied when water levels in Canadian shipping routes drop, requiring lighter loads or alternative logistics.

Surcharges are usually non-negotiable, vary by destination, and may change without notice, making them important to monitor separately from base quote costs.

Why aren’t Surcharges included in the main quote?

Surcharges are Variable and Unpredictable. They are typically based on:

• Real-time external conditions (like fuel prices, weather-related port restrictions, or currency fluctuations)
• Local regulations that may change periodically or by location (e.g., environmental charges like LEZ)
• Operational challenges that arise after quoting (e.g., container inspections, port congestion)
• Unexpected events or certain seasons (e.g., Canadian low water surcharge during droughts)

Including them upfront could mean quoting inaccurately - too low or too high - especially for moves planned far in advance. Movers often wait to confirm these charges once the move route and timing are finalised.

Equally, because they originate from governments, ports, or carriers (not the mover), many providers list them separately to show transparency.

This separates provider pricing from external costs and avoids overcharging.

Destination Services

Once the shipment arrives at the destination port it will incur similar costs as at origin, including vehicle, crew, un-crating, access etc. with the addition of costs for customs clearance.

Customs clearance is the process of clearing the goods through customs ready for onward delivery including processing documentation. Costs do not include any duties or taxes that might be applicable if items are not eligible for duty free import. Your mover should help your employee to assess this during the quote stage, it is typically based on whether they are moving their permanent residence and the length of time they have been out of the country/owned their goods.

What are the biggest influences on Destination costs?

Just like at origin, destination costs are primarily driven by the volume of the shipment and the access conditions at the delivery address. The more items to unload and the more complex the property access (e.g. stairs, no parking, narrow doorways), the more time, crew, or equipment may be needed. In addition, the level of service requested at destination - such as unpacking, furniture reassembly, and set-up-will also impact the cost. Finally, local regulations, such as customs clearance processes (covered in more detail in the ‘exclusions’ section below) or labour requirements, can vary by country and affect the final price of destination services.

A note on currency fluctuations

Typically container space on a vessel is charged in US$ or Euros, and destination services are charged in local currency, and movers will calculate the cost in £'s based on the exchange rate at the time of quoting. As there is often many weeks between a quote and a shipment loading things can change. Normally small fluctuations are absorbed by the moving company who will lose or gain profit if a rate gets better or worse, but where there are large fluctuations (e.g., in times of economic crisis) these changes in cost may be passed back to the customer. If the change is not in your favour this could mean additional charges once the actual freight or destination cost is charged to your mover. 

Inspection Fees

Customs inspection fees are often excluded from the main quote or shown separately because they are unpredictable and vary by country.

In some destinations, a standard inspection fee is applied to all shipments as part of the import process and can be included as a fixed cost. However, in many countries, inspections are only carried out on a random or discretionary basis, and the length and complexity of the inspection can affect the final charge. For example, a quick visual check may be low-cost, while a full unpacking or detailed examination can result in significantly higher fees.

Because it's not always clear at the quoting stage whether an inspection will occur (or what type) it’s common for movers to treat these costs as pass-through charges, invoiced only if and when they are incurred.

Customs Duties and Taxes

While the customs clearance service (which includes preparing documentation, coordinating with customs authorities, and arranging inspections) is typically included in international moving quotes, customs duties and taxes themselves are not. These charges are set by the destination country’s Customs and Excise department and vary widely based on individual circumstances, such as the assignee’s visa/residency status, the type and age of goods, and whether the individual qualifies for duty-free import. For example, if an employee imports a non-qualifying vehicle or new items without meeting exemption criteria, duties may apply.

Since these fees are often unpredictable and outside the mover’s control, they are treated as separate, pass-through costs. However, a reputable mover will work closely with the assignee and HR team during the quote and planning process to help assess duty-free eligibility, flag any potential charges, and minimise risk of unexpected fees.

These can vary between providers so it’s always important to understand the small print.

Industry Standard Inclusions

• Full packing service including supply of materials
• Wrapping of furniture items
• Basic dismantling and reassembly of normal furniture not requiring specialist equipment/skills. (Excludes flat pack furniture)
• Loading of all items into transport container
• Transportation to destination port of entry
• Customs clearance including documentation assistance
• Unloading at destination (assuming standard access)
• Unpacking onto flat surfaces
• Placing of furniture
• Removal of discarded supplied packing materials on delivery day

Industry Standard Exclusions

Unless specified in the quote, the following may be excluded from the quote:

• Dismantling and reassembling of flat pack/non-standard furniture or complex items unless specifically noted as included
• Delivery of packing materials prior to move
• Physical Access check at destination residence
• Long carry (over 30 metres)
• Delivery above ground floor (equivalent to US 1st floor)
• Crating of fragile items
• Parking dispensations
• Taking down/refitting of any fixtures and fittings 
• Customs charges (customs duties/taxes, fumigation fees, custom inspection fees, storage/demurrage)
• Collection/Delivery during holidays / weekend and labour overtime
• 3rd party services (for example corgi registered plumbers to remove gas appliances)
• Shuttle vehicles or outside elevators required for difficult access
• Multiple deliveries
• Additional collection of packing materials (post move day)
• Delivery beyond 30 miles of the stated city limits
• Unpacking into cupboards (Typically this is to flat surfaces only)
• Shipment of any items listed as prohibited in terms and conditions. This includes but is not limited to batteries or other items that may present a risk to health and safety and of fire.
• Insurance (unless pre-selected by contract agreement or accepted as part of a quote).

Tip: If you're unsure whether something should be included or excluded in the quote, or how to spot potential gaps, check out the Best Practices for Getting a Quote section. It outlines practical steps to ensure the move scope is accurate and helps you avoid unexpected costs later on.

With one service provider

You might notice that a seemingly similar move (volume/access, etc) may vary significantly between assignees, either going to different destinations or even the same destination at different times. Here’s why there might be some variation:

• Seasonal fluctuations and peak moving periods
• Currency fluctuations, freight increases and surcharges from shipping lines
• Regional regulations and port fees can vary significantly between countries

Between providers

If you work with a panel of movers (or even during RFP processes) you might also be wondering why different providers for the exact same requirements may vary so much. Price differentials can arise due to a number of reasons including:

• Volume differentials: Estimation of volume is a manual calculation and there can be a margin of variation between one or more estimations. As pricing is largely based on volume any significant variation can have an impact on pricing and should be reviewed - if the volume is noted on the quote look for any major discrepancies and go back to the provider to double check. 
• Transit Time: Slower sailings can be cheaper than more direct routes therefore differentials may be caused by providers pricing based on different transit times - make sure this has been confirmed. 
• Method of Shipment: Unless this is specified in policy providers may base quotes on different methods of shipment e.g. shared or exclusive use containers/transportation - make sure you understand which your quote is based on. 
• Services: Inclusion of services such as packing, crating/special care wrapping, special handling, shuttle vehicles, parking fees etc. may vary between providers based on their recommendation and needs assessment.
• Move Plan: Each provider will create their recommended operational move plan based on their pre-move survey and needs assessment, and the associated resources will dictate pricing. If providers recommend different move plans this may impact pricing.
• Additional Fees: For some destinations additional charges may be applicable (e.g. container inspections/local fees). In some instances these can be pre-paid, in others they are only payable locally. Inclusion/exclusion of these fees in initial pricing can cause differentiation between suppliers.                                  
• Base cost: the foundations of moving are made up of labour, materials, fuel and vehicle/shipping costs which can be controlled and moderated by local authorities or have micro economic influences and therefore may impact decisions of companies sale rates.
• Quality Variations: Meeting standards such as FIDI FAIM or ISO, or in providing appropriately qualified staff comes at a cost - a provider’s investment in quality (for example investing in secure warehouses, roadworthy trucks, holding the right insurances and training staff) can increase their base costs slightly for the value it adds.

Why do costs sometimes change AFTER the quote?

• Changes to scope: Any additional volume or change to dates outside of the quote validity period
• If the delivery address was not known at the time of quoting and access or distance is not as assumed and included
• Issues beyond the movers control: New surcharges from the shipping line, large currency fluctuations, port strikes, delays – this is where you might see terms like detention or demurrage.

One of the best ways to prevent surprise charges is to proactively ensure that the quote fully reflects the actual move requirements and company policy. Here are key steps to help you do that:

How To Get Accurate, Like-for-like Quotes

Make Sure the Move Scope Is Accurate

Ensure a like for like comparison between vendors (volume, transit time, method of shipment, services, move schedule, insurance) by ensuring everyone has understood the same scope.

• Clearly communicate your relocation policy rules to the mover-particularly around what employees are allowed to ship (e.g. restrictions on new items or vehicles).
• Ensure a comprehensive pre-move survey is conducted by a qualified surveyor wherever possible to assess volume, access, and any special requirements.
• At the time of initiation, flag any unique needs or special considerations-such as medical equipment, pets, restricted timelines, or temporary housing plans-so they can be factored into the plan and quote.

Be Clear About Policy Requirements

Share your company’s relocation policy or any specific service expectations with the mover upfront:

• What’s included or excluded (e.g. insurance, packing, storage)
• Budget constraints or lump sum limits
• Shipment eligibility criteria (e.g. no shipping of new items)

This ensures quotes are aligned with what’s permitted and avoids pricing for services your programme won’t cover.

Use Standardised Quote Formats (Where Possible)

If you work with multiple suppliers, request quotes in a consistent format (even if that's just agreed elements to show) to:

• Compare like-for-like
• Avoid overlooking hidden costs
• Reduce decision-making time

Some companies include this as part of their RFP or supplier agreement.

Review Inclusions and Exclusions Carefully

Go through the list of what’s included and excluded in the quote. If you notice an exclusion that you believe should apply to the move, highlight it to the mover early. Likewise, if there are services you never cover, consider adding them to your policy or contract as a standard exclusion - this avoids confusion later.

If it’s not clear, ask for a detailed breakdown of:

• Services included in the base price
• Optional or conditional charges (e.g. long carry, shuttle vehicle)
• Exclusions you may be responsible for (e.g. customs duties)

Knowing this in advance helps prevent costly surprises and enables fair comparison between providers.

Make Sure Insurance Coverage Meets Your Standards

Transit insurance may be offered at different levels. Ask your mover:

• What level of coverage is included by default?
• What’s optional, and what are the costs?
• Are owner-packed items fully covered?

Ensuring the right level of insurance protects both the assignee’s belongings and your duty of care as an employer.

Read more: How to value insurance coverage for employee household goods shipments.

Importance Of Quality, Trust And Cultural Fit

Compare the Quality of the provider (including any external verification such as FIDI FAIM or ISO certification) rather than just the price.

Listen to your gut. If you’re happy that everyone is offering you the same level of service, the same level of quality and the same volume and rough price then it will be down to your personal preference. Who made you (and the assignee) feel most comfortable dealing with the process so far? Who has given you the most confidence, who do you trust? The culture of a company will determine their processes and customer experience, and your experience so far is a good indicator of what your experience will be like once you’ve booked, so, who do you want to work with?

Read more: Why you should move with a FIDI FAIM accredited International Mover

Using Mover Panels or Preferred Suppliers

Using a trusted, pre-vetted mover (or a small panel of suppliers) brings several advantages:

• Familiarity with their quote format, terms, and service levels
• Streamlined comparisons and faster approvals
• Greater confidence in pricing transparency and service quality

If your programme uses a lump sum policy, consider recommending preferred suppliers to employees to reduce the risk of them selecting a low-cost but poor-quality provider-or one who omits key services.

Read more: Sample RFP Questions for Household Goods Providers

Read more: Guidelines for a successful move management RFP

Red flags to watch out for

• Quotes that seem unusually low (look for hidden costs or incomplete service scope)
• Lack of transparency in costing breakdowns
• Overly broad exclusions that could increase final costs
• A generalised quote NOT based on assignee specific requirements – unless contracted, there would be a chance of high additional charges

How long is a quote valid for, and what happens if we wait too long to approve it?

Most international moving quotes are valid for a limited period, typically 30 to 60 days, depending on the provider and the shipping market. This is because key cost components like freight rates, fuel surcharges, and currency exchange can fluctuate. If approval is delayed past the validity period, the move may need to be requoted, and costs may increase-especially during peak seasons or in volatile markets. It's best practice to confirm the quote validity in writing and aim to approve moves promptly to secure space and pricing.

What should we consider if our company uses a lump sum relocation policy?

When employees manage their own move using a lump sum or cash allowance, it’s easy for them to focus on the lowest price. This can increase the risk of incomplete quotes, poor service, or hidden costs. To support a positive experience, employers should consider:

• Recommending vetted suppliers with clear cost breakdowns
• Providing a minimum service standard checklist (please reach out to us if you'd like support creating this). 
• Encouraging employees to share quotes with HR or mobility for quick review

This approach balances employee choice with risk management and cost visibility.

Read more: Employee Guide to Choosing an International Removal Company

Besides route and speed, what else affects freight costs and availability?

Freight costs are also influenced by factors outside the mover’s control, including:

• Port congestion or strike action
• Blank sailings (when shipping lines cancel routes to manage capacity)
• Geopolitical disruptions (e.g. war, tariffs, canal delays)
• Container shortages in high-demand periods.These risks are often unpredictable and can lead to higher prices or longer transit times, even after a quote is approved. Working with experienced movers helps anticipate these challenges early.

What causes customs clearance delay charges, even when paperwork is in order?

Even with accurate paperwork, shipments can be delayed by random inspections, backlogs at customs, or incomplete declarations by third parties. In some countries, clearance is manual and subjective, which means shipments can be held longer than expected without clear explanation. Some quotes include limited free storage during clearance; delays beyond that may incur demurrage or port storage fees.

These costs are typically billed after the fact, and cannot be reasonably included in the initial quote because there’s no way to anticipate if or when they’ll apply (if they were included as standard ‘just in case’ you’d be paying for them even when not incurred, which is not cost effective).

To help minimise this risk, your mover should work with the assignee during planning to:

• Ensure documentation is accurate and complete
• Assess eligibility for duty-free entry
• Build in realistic expectations about clearance times and potential cost exposure

Ultimately though, customs control the process, and even a perfectly prepared shipment can be delayed or charged unexpectedly.

What level of insurance should we choose, and what are the options?

Transit insurance typically comes in two main forms:

• Total Loss Only – Covers the shipment if it's completely lost (e.g. due to vessel sinking), but not partial damage.
• All-Risk (Full Cover) *HIGHLY RECOMMENDED* – Covers loss or damage to individual items during transit, packing, or handling, up to the declared value.

Many providers offer variations in deductibles, valuation methods, and exclusions. For corporate relocations, it's best to opt for comprehensive, all-risk cover that protects both the employee and employer. Note: Items packed by the owner (“PBO”) may not be covered or may be insured for total loss only.

Insurance is a complex subject, so for more information please reach out.

Read more: How to value insurance coverage for employee household goods shipments.

What happens if the assignee isn’t ready to accept delivery?

If the destination address isn't available, access isn't as expected, or the assignee isn’t present, the mover may need to reschedule delivery-which can incur extra costs. These could include storage charges, redelivery fees, handling costs, or additional crew time. To avoid this, confirm that the assignee has a confirmed address and is prepared to receive the goods before the container arrives at destination. This is especially important for direct delivery containers where flexibility is limited.

Why can’t I get a quote without a survey?

While it’s tempting to request a quick quote upfront, accurate pricing depends on detailed information - including volume, access, special handling needs, and packing requirements. You may be able to get a ‘ball park’ budget without a survey, but a pre-move survey (in-person or virtual) allows the mover to assess the unique scope of the move and build a realistic, tailored quote. Without it, the estimate may be based on assumptions that don’t reflect the true complexity or cost, increasing the risk of unexpected charges later. For high-value or policy-compliant moves, a professional survey is an essential step.

How do we minimise unexpected costs

Some costs are beyond the control of you and your mover, but here’s three tips that are within your control:

• Be ready: Working with your move manager to get all your documentation complete ASAP means getting the green light to ship sooner, this might mean your shipment can be loaded directly at your home and travel straight to the port (access and schedule permitting) which can be cheaper than loading via a company warehouse. 
• Move with a company that is FIDI FAIM certified (this will reduce the risk of any hidden costs if something goes wrong!). If you are working with an RMC and not selecting your movers directly, talk to them to find out if this is part of their selection criteria, or ask them to utilise movers you’ve selected yourself. Read more: Why you should move with a FIDI FAIM international Mover. 
• Ensure sufficient insurance is in place, with the correct level of valuation in case of any accidental damage. [Link to valuation insurance blog]

Access

The immediate area around a property-both inside and out-that affects how easily movers can load or unload. Includes driveways, stairs, elevators, narrow roads, etc. Poor access can lead to added charges (e.g., shuttle, long carry).

Accessorial (Additional) Services / Charges

Extra services outside the standard move scope, such as stair carries, appliance handling, shuttle use, or packing/unpacking services. These are typically charged separately.

BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor)

A surcharge added to sea freight rates to cover fluctuations in the price of marine fuel (bunker fuel). Shipping lines apply BAF to protect themselves from volatile fuel costs. You probably won’t see this listed as a separate line item in quotes but it may form part of your costs.

CAF (Currency Adjustment Factor)

A surcharge applied to account for currency fluctuations between the quote currency and the operating currency of the shipping line or port. Especially relevant when international freight is billed in a different currency (e.g., USD or EUR). CAF is used to stabilise pricing in response to exchange rate volatility. You probably won’t see this listed as a separate line item in quotes but it may form part of your costs.

Crating

A custom-built wooden box used to protect fragile, high-value, or awkwardly shaped items (e.g. artwork, glass tables, TVs) during transport. Crating is typically an additional charge and may be required for insurance coverage.

Customs Clearance

The administrative process by which a shipment is approved to enter or exit a country. It involves paperwork, inspection (where applicable), and verification of eligibility for duty-free status. Often included in quotes as a service fee, but duties/taxes are charged separately by local customs authorities.

Customs Duties / Import Taxes

Government-imposed fees applied to imported goods that don’t meet duty-free criteria (e.g. new items, ineligible vehicles). These are not included in moving quotes, as they vary by country, item, and individual eligibility.

Declared Value

The total value assigned to household goods for insurance purposes, usually based on replacement cost or depreciated value. Determines the level of coverage under transit insurance.

Demurrage

Demurrage is a penalty fee charged by the shipping line when a container isn’t collected or returned within the allowed free time at the port or terminal. This can occur due to customs delays, missing paperwork, or scheduling issues. It’s charged per day and can escalate quickly if not resolved promptly.

Door‑Curbside

A delivery option where items are delivered only to the outside of the destination property, not carried inside.

Door‑to‑Door Service

A comprehensive service where items are collected from and delivered inside the homes at both origin and destination. Reduces handling and coordination.

Export Wrap / Full Export Packing

A professional-grade packing service using heavy-duty materials (e.g. bubble wrap, paper, cardboard) to protect items for international or long-term storage transit. Recommended for warehouse or containerised moves.

External Elevator

An external elevator (also called a furniture lift) is a mechanical platform lift used outside a building to move goods through upper-floor windows or balconies, especially where internal staircases or lifts are too narrow or unavailable. The cost includes equipment rental, setup, and specialist operators, and is often required in dense urban areas.

Freight Charges

Costs related to transporting goods via ship, truck, or air. In sea shipments, this includes container handling, loading, and the sea voyage itself. Often the largest component of the quote and impacted by container size, route, and fuel surcharges.

Fuel Surcharge

A variable fee added to offset fluctuations in fuel prices. This may be updated frequently and shown as a separate line item to reflect real-time market conditions.

Insurance (Transit Insurance / Move Protection)

Optional coverage to protect the assignee against loss or damage during the move. Different levels of cover are available (e.g. full replacement vs. limited liability), and assignees are usually required to declare the value of their belongings for coverage.

Long Carry

A long carry fee is charged when there’s a significant distance between the truck and the residence, usually beyond a standard allowance (e.g., more than 15–20 meters). This might occur if parking is not available directly outside the property, requiring the crew to manually carry goods over a longer distance.

Port Charges / Terminal Handling Charges (THC)

Fees applied by ports or terminals for the handling and processing of containers. Often not included in some quotes unless specifically requested, and can vary widely between countries.

Port Storage Fee

A charge applied when a shipment stays at the port longer than the free storage period (usually a few days). Port storage is billed by the port operator and can quickly accumulate if paperwork or customs clearance is delayed.

Shuttle

A smaller vehicle used when a full-size truck or container can’t access the property due to narrow roads or parking restrictions. Adds cost and handling time.

SIT (Storage‑in‑Transit)

Temporary storage of goods during the move process-either before delivery or due to delays. May incur additional daily storage and handling fees.

Stair Carry

A stair carry charge applies when movers need to carry items up or down flights of stairs, typically beyond a certain threshold (e.g., more than one or two floors). It compensates for the added time, physical effort, and risk involved when an elevator isn’t available or usable. This can apply at either the origin or destination.

Tranship / Transhipment

The process of transferring goods from one vessel (or mode of transport) to another during the shipping journey. This usually occurs at a hub port and can increase transit time and the risk of delay or damage, especially if not well-managed.

Warehouse Handling

Charges for moving goods into, out of, or within a warehouse during the moving process. This includes unloading from trucks, placing items in storage, reloading, and preparing for onward delivery. These costs are often incurred when goods cannot go directly from origin to destination.

Read the full Employee Shipping Glossary here.