Relocation - what to take?

[Sam]

Hi there

When I moved to Singapore 2 years ago, I made the mistake of shipping every single thing that I own (including costs and jumpers, towels, you name - I've got!!!). This was all paid for out of my own pocket and cost me quite a bit less than the professional movers as I did it all through a friend.

I'm planning on moving back to Australia very soon but this time I'll have to use the professional in Singapore.

Can anybody offer advice on the following:
1. What movers are the cheapest & most reliable?

2. Is there anyway to cut down on costs? I've been quoted about S$6K on average to ship 525sqm.

3. Should I stock up on electrical (plasma TV etc.) in Singapore & ship them overseas, is it cheaper to do that throw it in with the rest of the container?

4. Any other tips for saving a few bucks?

Would really appreciate some advice!!

[PhantomX]

Hey

I had the same experience and made the mistake of shipping lock stock n barrel. Forget the small stuff ie towels etc unless youve got a minimal LCL commitment and you still have alot of left over space. Otherwise you will end up having to pay freight on rags. If youve got space left over cram the place with plasmas and all the electronics that you or your relatives and friends in OZ would like and give yourself a chance of retrieving part of the freight charges

[Sam]

Hi thanks for the reply.

So are you saying it will definitely be cheaper to buy electronics from Singapore rather than back home? Wouldn't I be taxed on the way in?

[PhantomX]

You are allowed under Aussie customs rules to bring in personal effects without duty as long as you don't bring in 2 or more of everything, otherwise they will deem you trading in these goods. Also, there is hefty penalty for false declarations
And whatever you buy new make sure it doesnt look mint ie shrinked wrapped and in original condition. At the very least remove the wrapping.

[PhantomX]

If you buy from places like Sim Lim Square you will have savings in the order of 30% if not more vis a vis Oz

[how about]

How about furniture.

We are also planning to move to australia and have been quoted S$7000+ for a full container.

Since they are charging for a full container, do you think it makes sense to buy furniture from here. ( we have been told that we will have extra space in the container).

We do need to buy a bed for the guest room and bits and pieces for the living room like an additional chair/coffe table. Is it cheaper in Signapore

[PhantomX]

Furniture is a personal thing
Many styles and makes here you cant get in Oz
But then Oz is short on availability
Cost comparsions should be done with freight charges grossed up
But if you are commited to FCL and you have excess space then pieces you can get here eg ethnic balinese and the like may be worth getting
Mind you though, furniture by virtue of its bulk takes a lot of space especially if you have to buy it as a set
Occassional pieces should not pose such a problem
Hope all this helps

[PhantomX]

Sorry, the comment should read
"Oz is not short on availability"
Addendum
"Range may not be as large as in Singapore"