So, the decision has been made to move to your dream home in Cyprus – how exciting! Now the fun really begins. We all know that moving house in the UK can be fraught with problems; but moving overseas can be a minefield if you don’t plan properly and use the professionals.

But where do you begin? First and foremost, make sure you employ a professional removal company. Beware of the cowboys because they are out there and they disguise themselves well – particularly on the internet.

Your safeguard is to look for professional memberships, such as BAR (British Association of Removers). This is the only code in the moving industry that’s approved and monitored by The Office of Fair Trading under its Consumer Codes Approval Scheme. Other memberships to look for are FIDI, a network of International Quality Removers. Most BAR members are also members of FIDI.

All removal companies like as much notice as possible, so don’t wait until your house is sold before contacting them. They will need to book your container (which will hold all your possessions) and also the ship that will transport it. If you give as much notice as possible, you will have a choice of sailings.

Call several companies to compare quotes. A good company will be able to assist with shipping cars, pets, antiques, pianos and so on.

There are several different methods of shipping:

- Deep-sea shipping is the most cost effective transport method, especially for bulky items like furniture and vehicles.

- Groupage is extremely economical and the cheapest way to ship. It’s ideal if you don’t have enough goods to fill a container, so you simply share space with others who are going to Cyprus.

- Full containers mean that you have sole use of a container that can be sealed and loaded at your home. This gives a fast, direct service.

- Airfreight is the fastest method of all, but the most expensive. It’s perfect if you can’t wait for your clothes and documents to arrive.

Before accepting a quote, make sure you get everything in writing and whatever you do, don’t ship without marine insurance. Choose a “Total Loss” policy which will cover you for everything – and don’t underinsure.

On the day of your move, the best thing you can do (and it is difficult) is keep out of the way. The removal company will have everything under control; all you need to do is make sure your suitcases and anything you are taking with you on the plane are kept out of the way.

Remember to take your paperwork. One piece will be your inventory. Don’t lose this, as it’s your only record of what has been shipped. An agent in Cyprus who works in conjunction with your removal company will handle your goods at the docks, including clearing customs. The agent will call you when your container clears customs and arrange a convenient time to deliver it.

Then all you have to do is unpack. Good luck with your move.

Start your hunt for a home in Cyprus here…
If you’re searching for a Cypriot property, a good place to start is the Cyprus Buying Guide’s new property search facility. To start your search now visit http://www.cyprusbuyingguide.com/content/cyprus-properties