Moving internationally can feel like navigating a maze, and choosing the right shipping company is crucial for a stress-free experience. This review provides an inside look at using Euro Usa for a transatlantic move, highlighting both the seamless aspects and essential considerations to keep in mind for your own Euro-USA transition.
Seamless Moving Experience with Important Caveats
Overall, the experience with Euro USA was seamless in many respects. The customs process, often cited as a major headache in international relocations, was made remarkably easy thanks to Euro USA’s guidance and streamlined forms. However, it’s vital to be aware of potential discrepancies between the initial quote and the final cost, as well as the actual delivery timeframe compared to initial estimates. Planning with these factors in mind is key to a positive experience.
Understanding Euro USA’s Pricing Structure: Volume over Weight
When estimating your shipping costs with Euro USA, it’s important to move beyond simply counting boxes or container sizes. Instead, directly inquire about the cost per square cubic foot. This is because Euro USA primarily calculates charges based on volume, not weight. Be aware that their packing process, which often involves robust multi-layered paper packaging for items, can increase the overall volume of your shipment. Similarly, while wooden crates offer protection, they also contribute to the total volume and consequently, the final cost. Packing strategically using sturdy boxes rather than suitcases can help minimize unnecessary paper wrapping and keep costs in check.
Delivery Time Expectations: Factor in Warehouse Delays
While Euro USA facilitates the shipping process, be prepared for a potentially longer delivery time than initially anticipated. In our experience, the shipment took a total of four months to arrive. Significantly, almost three of those months were spent in a warehouse on the East Coast of the USA. Knowing this upfront allows for better planning and management of expectations regarding when your belongings will reach you.
Packing Tips for Euro USA Shipments: Durability is Key
The journey across continents can be rough on your belongings. While all boxes arrived safely, they showed signs of wear and tear, indicating they were “very beaten up” during transit. Therefore, using heavy-duty, strong boxes and securing them well with tape is essential to protect your items. Avoid using large boxes, as these are more susceptible to crushing under the weight of other items during shipping. It’s also worth noting that despite potential crating initially, items are unlikely to be in crates upon final delivery. Packing with resilience in mind is crucial for ensuring your goods arrive in good condition after their Euro-USA journey.
Final Delivery and Potential Additional Costs
Upon arrival at your final destination, be prepared for a swift drop-off process. Movers typically unload boxes just inside your door, very close to their truck. Any additional services beyond this basic drop-off, such as navigating stairs, elevators, or moving boxes further into your home, may incur extra charges. These “nickel and dime” costs can add up, so it’s wise to clarify potential extra fees beforehand, especially if your delivery location presents any access challenges. The delivery itself can be very quick, in our case lasting only about 15 minutes, and you’ll be asked to sign paperwork promptly.
Euro USA: Streamlined Customs and Helpful Communication
Despite the caveats regarding cost and delivery time, Euro USA excels in simplifying the customs process. Where other companies might present customs clearance as a daunting task requiring you to find your own agent, Euro USA provides clear forms and guidance. Ken from Euro USA was particularly helpful in demystifying the process and answering confusing questions, making this aspect of the international move significantly less stressful. Communication from the European shipping company was also regular and informative via email, providing reassurance throughout the shipping period.
Conclusion: Plan Smart for Your Euro-USA Move with Euro USA
Choosing Euro USA for your move to the USA offers the advantage of a streamlined customs process and helpful communication. However, to ensure a truly seamless experience, it’s critical to plan proactively. Focus on understanding the volume-based pricing, clarify the cost per cubic foot, anticipate a potentially longer delivery timeframe with warehouse delays, and pack your belongings for a robust journey. By keeping these key insights in mind, you can navigate your Euro-USA move with greater confidence and preparedness.
