Simplyship.co.uk Reviews

Based on checking the website, Simplyship.co.uk presents itself as an international removals company with a focus on reliability and professionalism.

They specialize in moving belongings worldwide by air or sea, catering to both private and corporate shippers.

Their services include full container loads for complete households, shared groupage for smaller shipments, and airfreight for urgent items, highlighting their comprehensive approach to international shipping.

While the service itself – the physical movement of goods – is generally permissible and a necessary part of modern life, it’s crucial for individuals to ensure all aspects of their move, especially financially, adhere to ethical and permissible guidelines.

For instance, any related financial transactions should avoid interest-based loans or insurance policies that involve uncertainty or speculative elements, as these are not in line with sound financial principles.

Instead, focus on transparent, upfront pricing and direct payment methods to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguities.

Navigating international relocations can be a complex endeavor, fraught with logistical challenges, potential hidden costs, and the emotional toll of moving one’s life across borders.

This is where a service like Simply Ship aims to step in, offering assistance from packing to transit.

However, as with any service involving significant financial outlay and trust, it’s vital to conduct thorough due diligence.

For those embarking on such a journey, consider alternatives that prioritize clarity, upfront cost disclosure, and flexible, direct payment options.

Engaging with companies that offer transparent contracts and avoid speculative financial products is always a more prudent and ultimately more beneficial approach.

For instance, exploring multiple quotes, understanding all terms and conditions, and opting for direct payment rather than credit or loan-based services can lead to a smoother and more ethical moving experience.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Simplyship.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon initial review, Simplyship.co.uk projects an image of a well-established international moving company with a significant operational history. The website emphasizes “reliability and professionalism” as core tenets, aiming to instill confidence in potential clients. They highlight their presence in both the UK Scotland and Australia, suggesting a robust logistical network for moves between these regions and globally.

Initial Impressions of Simplyship.co.uk

The website provides a clear overview of their main service: international removals by air or sea.

It immediately presents contact numbers for both their Scottish and Australian offices, along with a prominent “Request a Quote” button.

This direct approach suggests efficiency and a focus on lead generation.

• Geographical Reach: They explicitly mention shipping to key destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, UAE, USA, Canada, and “Rest of the World,” indicating a broad service area.
• Experience: The claim of “over 50 years” of experience in providing international moving services for private and corporate shippers is a significant data point, suggesting deep industry knowledge and stability.
• Service Variety: They clearly outline three primary shipping options: Full Container Loads FCLs, Shared Containers groupage, and Airfreight, catering to different volumes and urgency levels.

Website Usability and Information Clarity

The website’s design is functional, providing quick access to essential information.

Key services are outlined directly on the homepage, making it easy for users to understand what Simply Ship offers.

• Ease of Navigation: The main menu includes “Services,” “Shipment Protection,” “Storage,” and “Pet Shipping,” among others, suggesting a comprehensive suite of relocation-related offerings.
• Quote System: A prominent “Online Quotation Form” is advertised as “Easy To Complete” and taking “Only a few moments,” which is a user-friendly feature for initial inquiries.
• Transparency: While general services are clear, detailed pricing or terms and conditions are not immediately visible, common for bespoke moving services that require a custom quote. It’s always wise to request and scrutinize all contractual terms before committing to any service.

Simplyship.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating Simplyship.co.uk, it’s important to look at both the aspects that might appeal to a customer and those that warrant caution, particularly when considering the broader implications of financial engagement.

Potential Advantages of Simplyship.co.uk

Based on the website’s claims, Simply Ship aims to provide a reliable service for international removals.

Their stated advantages revolve around experience and comprehensive offerings.

• Extensive Experience: With “over 50 years” in the international moving business, Simply Ship suggests a wealth of experience in handling complex logistics, customs, and global shipping regulations. This long-standing presence can be a significant draw for customers seeking seasoned professionals.
• Global Reach: The ability to ship to a wide range of international destinations, including Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, and the UAE, provides flexibility for individuals and corporations relocating worldwide.
• Diverse Shipping Options: Offering FCLs full containers for large moves, shared containers for smaller shipments, and airfreight for urgent items means they cater to varying needs and budgets, providing choices for customers.
• Ancillary Services: The mention of services like “Shipment Protection,” “Storage,” “Pet Shipping,” and “Packing” indicates a holistic approach to relocation, potentially simplifying the moving process for clients by offering a one-stop solution.
• Customer Support Access: The presence of direct phone numbers for both their UK and Australian offices, along with an online quote form, suggests multiple channels for customer interaction and support.

Aspects Requiring Caution and Better Alternatives

While Simply Ship offers legitimate moving services, certain aspects, particularly those involving financial products like “Shipment Protection,” require careful scrutiny. Murlist.com Reviews

Many conventional insurance models can involve elements of uncertainty gharar and interest riba, which are not aligned with permissible financial practices.

• Conventional “Shipment Protection”: The term “Shipment Protection” often implies a conventional insurance policy. Such policies, when structured with elements of interest or excessive uncertainty, are not recommended.
  • Better Alternative: Instead of relying on conventional insurance, consider self-insurance if the value of goods allows, or explore Takaful Islamic insurance options if available in your region. Takaful operates on principles of mutual cooperation and shared risk, avoiding interest and speculative elements. If Takaful is not an option, ensure that any “protection” offered is a clear, transparent agreement that does not involve hidden fees or interest-bearing components. It’s always best to understand the precise nature of any financial product being offered.
• Lack of Transparent Pricing: While common for custom moving services, the absence of upfront pricing details on the website means customers must go through a quote process. This can make initial comparisons challenging and necessitates thorough review of the final quote to avoid unexpected costs.
  • Better Alternative: Always request itemized quotes from multiple providers. Compare not just the final price, but also what exactly is included and excluded. Push for clarity on all potential charges, including customs duties, port charges, and handling fees.
• Online Transaction Security: Although an “Online Quotation Form” is provided, the website does not prominently display security certificates or detailed privacy policies related to data submission.
  • Better Alternative: When submitting personal information online, always verify that the website uses HTTPS encryption indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Review their privacy policy to understand how your data will be handled.
• Reliance on External Factors: International shipping is subject to numerous external factors like customs clearance, port delays, and weather conditions. While Simply Ship cannot control these, potential customers should be aware of these inherent risks.
  • Better Alternative: Plan your move with ample lead time and build in buffer days. Maintain open communication with the moving company for updates and potential contingencies.

Simplyship.co.uk Shipping Options

Simplyship.co.uk offers a range of shipping solutions designed to accommodate different volumes, urgency levels, and budgetary considerations for international moves.

They provide options for both large-scale household relocations and smaller personal effects.

Full Container Loads FCLs

This option is typically recommended for individuals or families moving an entire household, offering the fastest and most private shipping method by sea.

• Description: FCLs involve using a sole-use container e.g., 20′, 40′, or 40′ High Cube dedicated exclusively to your belongings. This means your items are not mixed with other shipments.
• Ideal Use Case: Best suited for whole house moves, particularly 3-bedroom homes or larger.
• Process: Simply Ship states that FCLs can usually be packed and loaded at the residence, providing convenience for the client.
• Transit Time: Most destinations are quoted with an average transit time of 8-10 weeks.
• Container Sizes:
  • 20’ container: Typically holds an average 3-bed home. Dimensions are approximately 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches high, offering around 1,172 cubic feet of usable space.
  • 40’ and 40’ High Cube containers: Used for larger homes or extensive inventories. A 40′ High Cube container offers significantly more volume, up to 2,694 cubic feet, due to its increased height.

Shared Containers Groupage

For those with fewer items, shared containers offer a more cost-effective solution by consolidating multiple shipments into one container.

• Description: This service involves groupage, where your packed items are collected and returned to a warehouse. There, they are inventoried separately to prevent misplacement before being loaded into a container with other shipments bound for the same general destination.
• Ideal Use Case: Most cost-effective for less than full household moves, part households, boxes, or personal effects.
• Process: Items are packed and collected from your home or storage facility, then transported to Simply Ship’s warehouse for consolidation.
• Cost-Effectiveness: This is highlighted as “the most cost-effective way to ship” because the cost of the container is shared among multiple clients.
• Transit Time: Takes “a bit longer” than FCLs due to the consolidation process. A “shipping table” is mentioned for specific details, which presumably would be provided during the quote process.

Airfreight

When speed is the primary concern, airfreight is the quickest option for international moves, albeit at a higher cost.

• Description: This method utilizes air cargo services to transport your belongings.
• Ideal Use Case: Best for urgent effects that need to arrive quickly, such as essential documents, critical personal items, or time-sensitive corporate shipments.
• Speed: Advertised as “The quickest… option,” with an average transit time of 8-10 working days.
• Cost: “The most expensive option” due to the speed and logistical complexities of air transportation.

Simplyship.co.uk Additional Services

Beyond the core international shipping options, Simplyship.co.uk advertises several supplementary services designed to provide a more comprehensive relocation experience.

These additional offerings aim to simplify various aspects of moving abroad, from securing belongings to transporting pets.

Shipment Protection

Simplyship.co.uk offers “Shipment Protection,” which, in conventional terms, refers to insurance against loss or damage during transit.

However, from an ethical standpoint, it is important to exercise caution with conventional insurance. Smt-fx.com Reviews

• Conventional Concerns: Many conventional insurance policies involve elements of Riba interest and Gharar excessive uncertainty. The collection of fixed premiums with the promise of a payout for an uncertain future event loss or damage can fall into these categories, which are not aligned with ethical financial practices.
• Better Alternatives:
  • Takaful: Seek out Takaful Islamic insurance providers if available. Takaful operates on principles of mutual cooperation, where participants contribute to a fund to help each other in times of loss, sharing risk rather than transferring it for a fixed premium.
  • Self-Insurance/Contingency Fund: For items of lower value, consider creating a personal contingency fund to cover potential losses. This avoids engaging with potentially problematic financial products.
  • Due Diligence: If no Takaful option is available, thoroughly scrutinize the terms of any “shipment protection” offered. Look for clear, transparent contracts that avoid hidden fees, interest calculations, or overly complex speculative elements. Understand the exact nature of what you are paying for and what recourse you have. Always prioritize a clear, direct agreement over one laden with ambiguity.

Storage Solutions

For individuals who require temporary holding of their belongings before, during, or after their international move, Simply Ship offers storage services.

• Purpose: Useful for those whose new residence isn’t immediately ready, or for staggered moves.
• Types: While not detailed on the website, typically storage can include short-term, long-term, and secure containerized options.
• Considerations: When arranging storage, ensure the terms are clear regarding access, security, and pricing. Transparent per-unit or per-volume pricing for the duration is ideal.

Pet Shipping

Moving with pets involves specific regulations and care.

Simplyship.co.uk includes pet shipping as one of their specialized services.

• Complexity: Pet relocation is highly regulated and requires adherence to specific animal health, quarantine, and import/export laws that vary by country.
• Services: Typically includes assistance with veterinary checks, permits, crate requirements, and arranging safe transport by air or sea.
• Due Diligence: It’s vital to work with a company that has certified expertise in pet relocation, ensuring the welfare and legal entry of your animals. Always verify their accreditations and experience in this sensitive area.

Packing Services & Supplies

Simplyship.co.uk emphasizes professional packing and offers a range of packing materials.

• Professional Packing: They offer “Professionally Packed,” “Owner Packed,” and “Part Packing” options, allowing clients to choose the level of assistance they need. Professional packing can reduce the risk of damage during transit.
• Packing Tips: The site mentions “Packing Tips help2compare,” suggesting they provide guidance to clients who choose to pack their own belongings.
• Removal Products & Moving Kits: They sell “Moving Kits,” “Cardboard Moving Boxes,” “Bubble Wrap, Tapes & Label Rolls,” and “Moving Accessories.”
• Benefit: Access to quality packing materials directly from the mover can ensure items are packed appropriately for international travel, reducing potential damage.

Vehicle Shipping

For those needing to transport vehicles internationally, Simply Ship lists vehicle shipping as one of their services.

• Logistics: Shipping vehicles involves specific documentation, customs clearance, and specialized handling.
• Options: This typically includes RORO Roll-on/Roll-off services for operational vehicles or containerized shipping for added protection.
• Important Note: When considering vehicle shipping, be mindful of any financing options offered. Conventional interest-based loans or leases for vehicles are not permissible. Instead, explore halal auto financing options, which are structured as permissible modes of acquisition e.g., Murabaha or Ijarah to avoid Riba. If direct payment is an option, it’s always the most straightforward and permissible approach.

Simplyship.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Simplyship.co.uk, it’s insightful to consider how they might compare to other players in the international removals market.

Key Differentiators of Simplyship.co.uk

Based on the website’s presentation, Simplyship.co.uk’s primary differentiating factors appear to be:

• Dual-Country Presence UK & Australia: Their explicit mention of offices in both Scotland and Australia positions them strongly for moves between these two regions. Many competitors might have a global network but not necessarily dedicated local offices in these specific countries. This suggests a direct handling capability for a significant corridor.
• Longevity in Business: The claim of “over 50 years” of experience is a substantial boast in an industry where companies can come and go. This suggests stability, accumulated expertise, and a track record that might appeal to clients seeking reliability.
• Clear Service Tiers: The simple breakdown of FCL, Groupage, and Airfreight makes it easy for customers to self-identify the most suitable service for their needs, right from the outset.

General Comparison Points with Other International Movers

While specific competitor names aren’t listed, a general comparison framework helps highlight where Simplyship.co.uk might stand out or where other movers might offer different advantages.

• Global Networks Allied, FIDI members: Larger international moving networks e.g., Allied Van Lines, FIDI-affiliated companies often boast a presence in virtually every country, offering door-to-door services globally.
  • Simply Ship’s Position: While Simply Ship states “worldwide” service, their prominent UK-Australia presence might suggest a stronger focus on those routes, potentially offering more direct control and expertise there, as opposed to relying on a vast network of partners.
• Specialized Niche Movers: Some companies specialize in specific types of moves e.g., fine art, corporate relocations only, or specific geographic regions.
  • Simply Ship’s Position: They appear to be a general international mover for both private and corporate clients, with a strong focus on household goods and general cargo, plus niche services like pet and vehicle shipping. They don’t appear to be exclusively high-end or budget-focused but somewhere in between, emphasizing professionalism.
• Online Quoting and Digital Tools: Many modern movers invest heavily in sophisticated online quoting engines, tracking apps, and digital inventory tools.
  • Simply Ship’s Position: They offer an “Online Quotation Form,” which is standard. The website doesn’t explicitly showcase advanced tracking or digital inventory tools, but this doesn’t mean they don’t have them internally.
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: Aggregated customer reviews on independent platforms Trustpilot, Google Reviews often provide a more holistic view of a company’s service quality than self-stated claims.
  • Simply Ship’s Position: The website does not prominently display customer testimonials or links to review platforms. For a truly informed decision, seeking out third-party reviews would be crucial to gauge real-world customer satisfaction compared to competitors. Data Point: According to Statista, customer reviews influence 90% of purchasing decisions for service-based businesses, highlighting the importance of external validation.
• Pricing Transparency: Some movers are increasingly providing indicative pricing online, or more detailed breakdown of costs upfront.
  • Simply Ship’s Position: Like many in the industry, Simply Ship requires a quote request for specific pricing, which is common due to the variable nature of international moves volume, distance, services required.

In essence, Simplyship.co.uk presents itself as a seasoned and reliable option, particularly strong for moves between the UK and Australia, with a broad range of general international moving services. Their long history is a competitive advantage.

For specific moves, it’s always advisable to gather multiple quotes and compare detailed service inclusions, pricing, and external customer feedback before making a final decision. Wakaa.uk Reviews

How to Get a Quote from Simplyship.co.uk

Obtaining a quote from Simplyship.co.uk is a straightforward process, primarily facilitated through their online quotation form.

As international moves are highly customized, direct online pricing is not available.

Instead, a personalized assessment of your specific moving needs is required.

Steps to Request a Quote

The website highlights its “Easy To Complete – Online Quotation Form” as the primary method for initial inquiry.

1. Access the Form: Navigate to the “Get Quotation” or “Request a Quote” sections prominently displayed on the Simplyship.co.uk homepage. There is also a direct link “Click here to get a FREE quote.”
2. Fill in Your Details: The “Moving Quotation Form” will likely ask for:
   • Contact Information: Your name, email address, and phone number.
   • Origin and Destination: The full address of your current location and your desired destination country and city.
   • Moving Date: Your preferred or estimated moving date.
   • Inventory/Volume: This is crucial. You’ll typically be asked to provide an estimate of the volume of goods you intend to ship e.g., number of bedrooms, large items, number of boxes. Some forms might have a detailed inventory list, while others might ask for a general description.
   • Service Type: Your preferred shipping method Airfreight, Full Container, Shared Container.
   • Additional Services: Whether you require packing services, storage, pet shipping, or vehicle transport.
3. Submit the Form: Once all required information is entered, submit the form.
4. Await Contact: Simply Ship states, “Only takes a few moments to fill in and get the info you require!” implying a prompt response. They will likely contact you via phone or email to discuss your needs further and provide a customized quote.

What to Expect After Requesting a Quote

After submitting your online form, expect follow-up communication to clarify details and provide an accurate cost estimate.

• Initial Contact: A representative from Simply Ship will likely get in touch to confirm your details and perhaps ask additional questions to refine the scope of your move.
• Detailed Inventory if necessary: For larger moves, they might suggest a virtual survey or an in-home visit to accurately assess the volume and specific requirements of your belongings. This step is critical for an accurate quote.
• Receiving the Quote: The quote will then be provided, outlining the estimated costs for transportation, packing if requested, insurance/protection if chosen, and any other ancillary services.
• Clarification: It’s important to thoroughly review the quote and ask for clarification on any line items that are unclear. Ensure it includes all potential charges, such as customs duties, port fees, and destination delivery charges, to avoid surprises. Data Point: According to a 2022 survey by the American Moving & Storage Association, nearly 30% of customers experience unexpected charges if their initial estimate is not detailed.
• Negotiation where applicable: While not always possible, in some cases, there might be room for slight negotiation or adjustment of services to fit your budget.

Simplyship.co.uk Pricing

Simplyship.co.uk, like most international moving companies, does not publish fixed pricing on its website.

This is primarily because the cost of international removals is highly variable and depends on a multitude of factors unique to each customer’s situation.

Instead, they operate on a bespoke quotation model.

Factors Influencing International Moving Costs

The price you receive from Simplyship.co.uk will be determined by several key variables:

1. Volume and Weight of Goods: This is the single largest factor. The more belongings you ship, the higher the cost. This is why a detailed inventory or survey is crucial.
   • FCL vs. Groupage: Full Container Loads FCLs are generally more expensive overall than Shared Containers groupage for smaller volumes, but they can be more cost-effective per cubic foot for large moves.
   • Airfreight vs. Sea Freight: Airfreight is significantly more expensive than sea freight due to the speed and operational costs of air cargo.
2. Distance and Destination: The longer the distance and the more remote or complex the destination e.g., islands, politically unstable regions, the higher the shipping costs.
3. Origin and Destination Access: Ease of access at both your current and new residences e.g., high-rise apartments vs. ground-floor houses, narrow streets can impact loading and unloading costs.
4. Service Inclusions:
   • Packing Services: Professional packing adds to the cost but can reduce the risk of damage.
   • Disassembly/Reassembly: If Simply Ship is required to dismantle and reassemble furniture.
   • Ancillary Services: Pet shipping, vehicle shipping, and storage will incur additional charges.
   • Customs Clearance and Duties: These are country-specific and can be significant. While the mover might assist with documentation, duties and taxes are typically the responsibility of the client.
5. Shipment Protection Insurance: If you opt for their “Shipment Protection,” this will be an added cost. As discussed, it’s vital to scrutinize the terms of this service to ensure it aligns with permissible financial practices, prioritizing Takaful or transparent, non-interest-based options.
6. Time of Year: Peak moving seasons e.g., summer months, end of academic years can sometimes lead to higher demand and potentially higher prices, though this is less pronounced for international moves than local ones.
7. Exchange Rates: For international transfers, fluctuating exchange rates between the UK GBP and the destination country’s currency can impact the final cost, especially if payments are made in installments or across different currencies.

How Pricing is Presented

When Simplyship.co.uk provides a quote, it will be a customized estimate. Xertzspot.com Reviews

• Itemized Breakdowns: A reputable mover will provide an itemized breakdown of costs, distinguishing between:
  • Freight charges cost of transportation.
  • Packing and labor charges.
  • Terminal handling charges at origin and destination ports/airports.
  • Customs clearance fees.
  • Any charges for additional services e.g., pet transport.
  • Taxes and duties often an estimate, as these are subject to government assessment.
• “No Obligation Quote”: Simply Ship emphasizes “Get a quick no obligation quote,” meaning you are not committed to their service by merely requesting a price estimate. This allows for comparison shopping.

Recommendation: Always obtain at least three different quotes from reputable international movers. Compare the detailed breakdowns, not just the final number. Pay close attention to what is included “door-to-door,” “port-to-port,” “customs clearance assistance” and what is explicitly excluded. This thorough approach ensures you get the best value and understand all potential costs.

How to Cancel Simplyship.co.uk Services

The process for canceling services with Simplyship.co.uk would typically follow standard industry practices, which generally involve clear communication and adherence to contractual terms.

While the website doesn’t explicitly detail a cancellation policy, the nature of international removals necessitates a formal process.

General Steps for Cancelling a Moving Service

1. Review Your Contract/Quotation:
   • Before taking any action, locate and carefully read the terms and conditions outlined in your accepted quotation or service agreement with Simply Ship. This document should detail any cancellation fees, notice periods required, and refund policies.
   • Key things to look for:
     • Cancellation clauses: What are the penalties for canceling at different stages e.g., before packing, after packing, once goods are in transit?
     • Notice period: Is there a minimum number of days’ notice required before your scheduled move date to avoid or reduce fees?
     • Refund policy: Under what conditions are deposits or partial payments refundable?
2. Contact Simplyship.co.uk Directly:
   • The most effective way to initiate a cancellation is to contact their offices directly.
   • Phone: Call their Scotland office at 01224 330 515 or their Australia office at +6108 6260 1461 or +61 08 9455 7454.
   • Email/Written Communication: Follow up any phone conversation with a written cancellation notice email is usually sufficient, but a formal letter might be preferred for records. This creates a clear paper trail.
     • Include: Your name, contact details, quotation or booking reference number, the services you wish to cancel, and the effective date of cancellation.
3. Confirm Cancellation and Next Steps:
   • Ensure you receive a written confirmation from Simplyship.co.uk acknowledging your cancellation.
   • Discuss any outstanding payments, refunds due, or cancellation fees. Confirm the timeline for any financial transactions.

Potential Cancellation Fees

It is standard for moving companies to charge cancellation fees, especially if services have already begun or if cancellation occurs close to the scheduled moving date.

These fees are typically in place to cover administrative costs, lost business opportunities, and any resources already allocated e.g., booking containers, scheduling crews.

• Examples of potential fees:
  • A percentage of the total service cost.
  • A fixed administrative fee.
  • Costs for any services already rendered e.g., delivery of packing materials, partial packing.

Important Note: If you are canceling due to dissatisfaction or a dispute, clearly document your reasons and any previous communications. However, it’s always best to resolve issues directly and amicably if possible. In all dealings, prioritize clarity, written communication, and adherence to permissible financial practices, ensuring that any refunds or deductions are transparent and justified.

Simplyship.co.uk Alternatives

For those seeking international removal services, whether exploring options beyond Simplyship.co.uk or looking for alternatives that might better suit specific needs or financial considerations, the market offers a diverse range of companies.

When selecting an alternative, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency, ethical financial practices, and a strong track record of reliable service.

Here are categories of alternatives and examples of well-known companies in the international moving space:

1. Large Global Moving Networks

These companies typically have extensive international reach, often through their own offices or a vast network of accredited partners. Knulla.se Reviews

They offer comprehensive door-to-door services globally.

• Allied Van Lines: A major player in the global relocation industry, offering a wide array of services including international shipping, corporate relocation, and specialized transport. They have a massive network of agents worldwide.
• Atlas Van Lines: Another prominent international moving company with a global reach, providing services for both residential and corporate moves, including customs clearance assistance.
• Graebel Companies, Inc.: Focuses heavily on corporate and government relocations, known for their comprehensive global mobility solutions and high service standards.
• Crown Relocations: A well-established global mobility company offering international moving, destination services, and immigration support. They have a strong presence in numerous countries.
• Santa Fe Relocation: Provides global mobility services, including international moving, real estate, and immigration services, with a significant network across Europe, Asia, and other regions.
• FIDI-Accredited Movers: Look for companies that are members of the FIDI Global Alliance. FIDI is an international federation of movers that sets rigorous quality standards for international removals. A FIDI-accredited mover has undergone a stringent audit process, ensuring adherence to global best practices in quality, professionalism, and service. This provides an extra layer of assurance regarding reliability and compliance.

2. Specialized International Movers

These companies might focus on specific regions, types of goods, or niche services.

• Container Shipping Companies: For very large moves where you only need to ship a container and handle packing/unpacking yourself, you could directly contact major shipping lines or their agents e.g., Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM. This is usually more of a port-to-port service rather than door-to-door.
• Freight Forwarders: Companies that specialize in organizing shipments for individuals or businesses. They act as intermediaries between shippers and transportation services like shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies. They can often find competitive rates and manage complex logistics, though they might not offer the same level of personal service as a dedicated moving company.
• Baggage/Personal Effects Shippers: For smaller shipments e.g., a few boxes, suitcases, or personal items, companies like Excess Baggage Company or Send My Bag specialize in sending unaccompanied luggage or small parcels internationally. These are often more cost-effective for limited volumes than traditional movers.

3. Region-Specific Movers

Many reputable moving companies specialize in routes to and from specific countries or continents, potentially offering more competitive pricing or specialized knowledge for those routes.

• UK-Based Movers with International Divisions: Many large UK domestic movers also have international departments e.g., Pickfords Removals, Britannia Movers International, Bishop’s Move. These might have dedicated expertise for popular routes from the UK.
• Australian-Based International Movers: Similarly, Australian companies like Grace Removals or Chess Moving Australia specialize in international moves to and from Australia.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Alternative

When evaluating any alternative to Simplyship.co.uk, always prioritize the following:

• Detailed, Itemized Quotes: Insist on a comprehensive quote that breaks down all costs, including freight, packing, customs clearance assistance, and any additional services.
• Transparent Terms & Conditions: Read the fine print regarding payment schedules, cancellation policies, and what happens in case of delays or damages.
• Ethical Financial Practices: Avoid companies that push interest-based financial products like conventional loans for moving costs or traditional insurance with interest/speculative elements. Inquire about Takaful Islamic insurance or permissible alternatives for shipment protection.
• Reputation and Reviews: Check independent review platforms Trustpilot, Google Reviews, BBB for feedback on customer service, reliability, and handling of issues.
• Accreditations: Look for memberships in industry associations like FIDI, BAR British Association of Removers, or IAM International Association of Movers, which indicate adherence to professional standards.
• Clear Communication: Choose a company that communicates clearly, promptly, and transparently throughout the entire process.

By diligently researching and comparing multiple options based on these criteria, you can find an international moving service that aligns with your needs and ethical considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Simplyship.co.uk?

Simplyship.co.uk is an international removals company with offices in Scotland, UK, and Australia.

They specialize in moving personal belongings and household goods worldwide by air or sea for both private and corporate clients.

Where are Simplyship.co.uk’s offices located?

Simplyship.co.uk has offices in Scotland UK and Australia.

Their head office in Scotland is located at 15 Westhill Business Centre, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6UF.

What services does Simplyship.co.uk offer?

Simplyship.co.uk offers international removals by full containers FCLs, shared containers groupage, and airfreight. Audio-tools.net Reviews

They also provide additional services such as shipment protection, storage, pet shipping, vehicle shipping, and various packing options and supplies.

How long has Simplyship.co.uk been in business?

Simplyship.co.uk states that their experienced staff have been providing international moving services for over 50 years.

What destinations does Simplyship.co.uk ship to?

Simplyship.co.uk ships to a wide range of international destinations including Australia, New Zealand, UAE, USA, Canada, Europe e.g., France, Spain, Bulgaria, Scandinavia, and the “Rest of the World.”

How do I get a quote from Simplyship.co.uk?

You can get a free, no-obligation quote by filling out their “Online Quotation Form” on their website.

You can also call their Scotland or Australia offices directly.

What information is needed for a Simplyship.co.uk quote?

Typically, you’ll need to provide your contact details, origin and destination addresses, estimated moving date, an idea of the volume of goods e.g., number of bedrooms, large items, and any specific services required like packing or pet shipping.

What are the shipping options available through Simplyship.co.uk?

They offer three main shipping options:

1. Shipping full containers FCLs: Best for whole house moves, packed and loaded at residence, fastest sea option 8-10 weeks.
2. Shared containers Groupage: Most cost-effective for less than full households, involves consolidation at a warehouse, takes longer.
3. Airfreight: Quickest and most expensive option for urgent items 8-10 working days.

Does Simplyship.co.uk offer packing services?

Yes, Simplyship.co.uk offers various packing options including “Professionally Packed,” “Owner Packed,” and “Part Packing.” They also sell moving kits, cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, tapes, and label rolls.

Can Simplyship.co.uk ship vehicles internationally?

Yes, Simplyship.co.uk lists “Shipping Vehicles” as one of their services for international moves.

Does Simplyship.co.uk offer storage services?

Yes, Simplyship.co.uk provides storage solutions for belongings. Mohotrend.net Reviews

What is “Shipment Protection” offered by Simplyship.co.uk?

“Shipment Protection” refers to a form of coverage against loss or damage to your belongings during transit.

It’s crucial to understand the terms of this protection thoroughly, and ideally, explore ethical alternatives like Takaful if available, to avoid conventional insurance models that might involve interest or excessive uncertainty.

Is Simplyship.co.uk a reliable moving company?

Simplyship.co.uk emphasizes reliability and professionalism, stating over 50 years of experience.

For full assurance, it’s recommended to check independent customer reviews and verify their accreditations if available.

How long does international shipping take with Simplyship.co.uk?

Transit times vary by method and destination:

• Full containers FCLs usually take 8-10 weeks for most destinations.
• Shared containers take a bit longer than FCLs.
• Airfreight averages 8-10 working days.

Does Simplyship.co.uk handle customs clearance?

While the website doesn’t explicitly detail their customs clearance process, reputable international movers typically assist clients with the necessary documentation and guidance for customs procedures, though duties and taxes are usually the client’s responsibility.

Can I track my shipment with Simplyship.co.uk?

The website does not prominently feature an online tracking system.

You would need to inquire directly with them regarding shipment tracking capabilities.

What are the payment options for Simplyship.co.uk services?

The website does not specify payment options.

It’s best to discuss payment terms directly with Simplyship.co.uk during the quotation process. Tepedirect.com Reviews

Always aim for transparent, direct payment methods to avoid interest-based financing.

Does Simplyship.co.uk offer European removals?

Yes, Simplyship.co.uk explicitly states they offer “European Removals” to destinations like France, Spain, Bulgaria, and Scandinavia.

How do I contact Simplyship.co.uk?

You can contact them by phone at 01224 330 515 Scotland or +61 08 9455 7454 / +6108 6260 1461 Australia, or by submitting their online quotation form.

Are there any hidden fees with Simplyship.co.uk?

Reputable movers aim for transparency, but international shipping can involve various charges e.g., customs duties, port fees that might not be included in the base quote.

Always request a fully itemized quote and clarify all potential costs before agreeing to services to avoid surprises.