Moving to Chicago, United States

If you have any items in your consignment which may be considered an endangered species you will require a CITES permit. CITES is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, an international agreement between governments to safeguard certain species from over-exploitation. The trade is diverse, ranging from live animals and plants to a vast array of wildlife products derived from them, including food products, exotic leather goods, wooden musical instruments, timber, tourist curios and medicines. If you are not sure whether a species is controlled by CITES you should check on the CITES website.

Should you need to apply for a CITES permit you will need to complete an application form (charges will apply). For specific requirements with the intended import country please visit the CITES website for more information. Please note we will require the CITES permit six weeks prior to your move date as we are required to present the permit at the port of departure prior to container loading, failing which the certificate may be deemed invalid and the item may be denied entry at destination, destroyed or returned to the UK at your expense.

If you’re relocating around the globe and would like to take your vehicle with you it’s really not a problem. We specialise in the shipment of cars, motor homes, motor bikes, boats and caravans to all worldwide destinations. Your vehicle will be carefully stowed within a container and secured by retaining straps between the towing points or axles and floor mounted ring bolts and all wheels chocked. We have the knowledge, skill and experience to prepare your vehicle to provide the best possible protection throughout its journey.

Pre-shipment preparation service:

Your vehicle will be cleaned and valeted and we will complete an inspection check list as to make note of the condition of the vehicle prior to loading. We will isolate the battery in accordance with Dangerous Goods regulations. In addition we will place silica gel sachets in the passenger and luggage compartments to absorb moisture in the atmosphere. It is a maritime requirement that the vehicle's fuel gauge should register empty upon loading to the container, failing which you will be responsible for the cost of draining the tank and disposing the waste fuel.

Standard containers come in two sizes; 20' and 40' in length. While a 20' container is suitable for shipment of one car or 4x4, a 40' container provides sufficient space for two average size vehicles or one vehicle and your household goods. If you are shipping a motor vehicle with your household goods we will prepare, load and secure the vehicle and goods into a container at your home (space permitting). If the access is deemed unsafe for loading at your residence then we can arrange collection and load your vehicle and goods at our depot.

We can also arrange shipment by roll on/roll off car carrying vessels to certain ports, this option is far better for the larger vehicles like motor homes and caravans but can also be a more cost effective way for cars. Please note personal effects and spare parts are prohibited from shipment on roll on/roll off vessels.

We will require clear copies (PDF preferable) of the V5 Registration Certificate or Certificate of Permanent Export (if you have already notified the DVLA), your purchase invoice as proof of ownership, your passport photo ID page, your visa (if applicable), your completed Battery Disclaimer form and completed Vehicle Entitlement form. For a complete list of documents required refer to car documentation. Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have authority to import your vehicle, so if in doubt contact your embassy. We are unable to ship your vehicle without your completed documentation and payment.

For further information please ask our team

At origin Pollards trained packing teams will expertly pack and wrap your goods ready for shipment. All your possessions are well-protected and perfectly safe throughout the entire relocation.

At destination, our agents will unpack your goods and dispose of any of our used debris from your new residence.

Many countries require your presence to clear customs on arrival of your goods, although some countries will permit you to nominate a representative to clear customs on your behalf. There are different rules in each country and your Relocation Consultant will be able to confirm the regulations for the country you are relocating to.

For further information please refer to the FIDI Customs Guides. Please note that the information provided is not definitive and is intended as a guide only. Destination regulations can change without notice and for specific guidance we strongly recommend that you obtain direct rulings from your destination customs authority.

If you are travelling on route we can arrange to store your goods and defer shipment to coincide with your estimated arrival date.

We’re here to help, if you have further questions you’d like to ask our experts. Contact us today on 0800 9750324 or drop us an email: enquiries@pollardsmovingandstorage.co.uk