Packing / preparing for your move

Can I pack my own boxes?

Yes, you can pack your own boxes. Some clients elect to pack clothes, books and linen and leave the more fragile items to us. If you choose to do this, we will supply you with appropriate professional quality boxes and packing materials.

We can also provide you with instructions for packing your boxes to professional standards, however we can not be responsible for any breakages in boxes packed by you.

How should I prepare appliances before moving day?

Your fridge should be emptied and wiped clean throughout. If it is going into storage, wiping the interior with vanilla essence will help keep any mildew at bay. We will store the fridge in accordance with manufacturers recommendations, with the door chocked ajar.

It is imperative that washing machines be prepared properly as these are easily damaged. Most front loading washing machines require the insertion of stability bolts. It is not our responsibility to do this and any damage resulting in adequate security will not be our responsibility.

How long will the inspection / quotation process take?

Our inspections process usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour and we strive to provide you with a quote within the following 24 hours.

Shipping / the moving process

Can I track my international shipment?

Yes, we provide our customers with regular email updates and a client login to our website which allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment.

Can you move art, antiques, pianos or billiard tables?

Yes, we can! We have specialist staff who are trained and accustomed to moving antiques. We also have an art transport division equipped and skilled at moving, storing and installing valuable and fragile works of art. This department uses specialised air ride climate vehicles and our art handlers are trained to museum handling standards.

Many of our vehicles contain piano trolleys and have hydraulic tail lifters. Our staff are also experienced at disassembling and reassembling grand pianos and multi piece slate billiard tables.

How long will the removal take?

This depends on the number of items we are moving and the ease of access. Your Moving Coordinator will be able to advise you of the approximate time we expect your move to take. Most homes require at least a day of pre-packing prior to the removal process.

How are international cost calculated?

For shipments sent by sea the cost is calculated by volume (in cubic meters).

Air freight is calculated by 'chargeable weight' - the actual gross weight or the volumetric weight of the shipment - whichever is the greater. Volumetric weight for airline couriers is determined by a formula (length x width x height of each package measured in cm multiplied by 5000) to reach a chargeable weight measured in kgs.

In all cases, we move your belongings in the most cost-effective manner so to pass on the best possible price to you. Contact us to receive an accurate, no obligation quote.

Is there anything I can't send?

Yes, there are a number of belongings that are prohibited, including LPG gas bottles, paints, aerosols and solvents.

A full list of prohibited items will be provided to you by your moving consultant.

I only want to send a few items, can you still help me?

Yes we can. Our excess baggage department specialises in packing and shipping small quantities of unaccompanied personal effects by sea or air.

To get an excess baggage quote, please click here.

Am I expected to give the removalists food or drink on when they are working?

You are not expected to do this. However, providing tea, coffee and water for our staff is much appreciated.

Do I need to be there on moving day?

No, you do not need to be present for the entire packing and moving process. However, if you are unable to attend in person, it is important that you nominate an authorised representative to allow our crews access to your home and be present to observe and sign your packing inventory.

Storage

How often can I access my stored belongings?

You can access your belongings during standard business hours, under supervision. If you need to access some possessions more often than others, we can arrange to pack the storage container to reflect this.

Do you have the facilities for storing large/unique items?

Yes. We used a containerised system, so if you can fit it into a shipping container - you can store it with us.

We also have specialist climate controlled storage facilities for works of art. Contact us for more information.

I only want to store a few items. Can you still help me?

Yes we can. We have a range of options suitable for storing belongings of different sizes. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Are there anything I can't store?

Flammable or toxic items such as fuel, gases, paints, poisons, aerosol sprays are not permitted, nor are perishable items such as food and plants.

Customs and quarantine

Can I move foodstuffs?

Yes, we can move most dry and tinned foodstuffs. It is highly recommended not to pack or move opened bottles of liquids or other spillable foodstuffs.

Will I have to pay customs?

This depends on what you are shipping and your final destination. Speak to your moving consultant for more information.

Administration

How much notice do I need to provide?

The amount of notice required depends on the nature of your move.

We recommend that you book your interstate move four to six weeks prior to departure. Booking ahead will allow us to secure and confirm your booking for your preferred dates and give you sufficient time to prepare for your move.

Of course, interstate moves can be still be arranged successfully at shorter notice, depending on your individual circumstances.

For local moves, we usually require 3-4 days notice. For moves in December and January it is a good idea to provide additional notice to book your preferred date.

Do I need insurance?

Whilst it is unusual for items to be damaged or lost in transit, for your peace of mind we recommend that you take out transit insurance. To help you get the right cover, we have put together a cost-effective policy specifically designed to protect your belongings during transit and/or storage.

Request a quote or contact us to speak to a moving consultant about the appropriate insurance for your move.

How and when do I need to pay?

All moves require full payment at least two working days prior to work commencing. King & Wilson accepts all major credit cards and also provides for payment by BPAY.

Our system also includes an on-line payment gateway which means our clients can pay for their moves via ANZ's e-gate secure payment system.