Contact
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Juana Azurduy 1520 Piso 3 Of. E.
Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires | CP 1429. - mercovan@mercovan.com.ar
- 54 9 11 56610295
FAQ
What are the costs associated with an international move?
The costs of an international move can vary depending on several factors. Below, we detail some of the elements that influence the final price:
– Destination: The country or city you are moving to directly impacts the cost. Moves to more distant or complex destinations may be more expensive.
– Cargo volume: The larger your move, the higher the cost. Volume is measured by the space the cargo takes up in the container or other means of transport.
– Type of transport: Depending on the mode (sea, air, or land), costs may vary. Sea transport is generally cheaper but slower, while air transport is faster but more expensive.
– Additional services: If you need additional services such as packing, insurance, storage, or furniture disassembly and assembly, these also increase the price.
At MERCOVAN, we work to offer you the best option tailored to your needs and budget. We can provide you with a personalized quote once we know more details about your move.
What items are prohibited when shipping in an international move?
Items prohibited for international moves vary depending on the customs regulations of the destination country. However, there are certain items that are generally not permitted for transport. Below is a list of the most common:
1. Hazardous Materials and Restricted Substances
– Explosives, fireworks, flares
– Compressed gases (oxygen cylinders, butane, propane)
– Flammable liquids (gasoline, paints, solvents, oils)
– Toxic or corrosive chemicals (pesticides, acids, bleach)
– Large lithium batteries
2. Weapons and Related Objects
– Firearms and ammunition
– Unjustified knives, swords, and sharp objects
– Self-defense equipment (pepper spray, tasers)
3. Perishable Goods and Food
– Fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products (without sanitary permits)
– Homemade or unpackaged foods
– Plants, seeds, and soil (subject to phytosanitary regulations)
4. Objects of High Cultural Value Heritage
– Antiques and works of art without an export certificate
– Archaeological relics
– Protected historical documents
5. Medications and Controlled Substances
– Illegal drugs and psychoactive substances
– Controlled medications without a prescription
– Steroids and supplements prohibited in some countries
6. Other Prohibited Items
– Large amounts of cash
– Undeclared jewelry and precious metals
– Live animals without the proper permits
– Pornography or obscene material
Important Note: Restrictions may vary depending on the laws of the destination country, so we always recommend consulting with our team to ensure your move complies with all customs regulations.
How is the delivery time for my belongings calculated?
The delivery time for an international move depends on several key factors, such as the type of transport, distance, customs clearance, and potential unforeseen circumstances. Below, we explain the main factors that influence delivery times:
1. Type of Transport
– Ocean (30-90 days): This is the most common method for large volumes. A container from Argentina to Europe or the US can take between 4 and 8 weeks to arrive, not including customs clearance.
– Air (5-15 days): Air transport is much faster, but also more expensive. Ideal for small, urgent moves.
– Land (7-30 days): Applies to moves to neighboring countries such as Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, or Paraguay.
2. Distance and Route
– Moves within Latin America: Between 15 and 45 days, depending on the specific destination.
– Argentina → Europe: 45 to 60 days.
– Argentina → USA/Canada: Between 30 and 50 days.
– Argentina → Asia, Africa, and Oceania: Between 60 and 90 days.
3. Customs and Procedures
– Exporting in Argentina: Export procedures can take 3 to 10 days if all documentation is in order.
– Importing in the destination country: The import process can take between 7 and 30 days, depending on local regulations and goods inspection.
4. Additional Factors
– Peak Season: During the summer and end-of-year months, moves may experience delays due to increased shipment volume.
– Unforeseen Events: Port strikes, weather issues, or documentation delays may affect delivery times.
Note: We always recommend planning ahead, as factors beyond our control may affect delivery times. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about your international move!
Do I need insurance for my belongings during the move?
Purchasing comprehensive insurance is highly recommended to protect your belongings during your move. We offer this service as an optional extra. To purchase it, it’s important to present a detailed list of the items you’ll be transporting. This will allow us to provide adequate coverage for your peace of mind.
What documentation do I need to provide for an international move?
The required documentation varies depending on the destination of the move and the specific regulations of the destination country. However, our specialized door-to-door service coordinators will be available to guide you through the entire process. They will inform you about the necessary documents and assist you through every step of the customs process.
How can I prepare my furniture and belongings for the move?
We recommend taking the following steps to prepare your belongings:
– Clean beforehand: Eliminate unnecessary items to reduce costs and avoid moving unnecessary items.
– Separate personal and valuable items: Passports, important documents, jewelry, money, and small electronic devices should travel with you and not in the move.
– Empty and clean appliances: Be sure to empty and dry refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances before shipping to prevent mold and odors from forming.
Do you offer storage in case I need time before receiving my things?
Yes, Mercovan Argentina offers secure storage services for your belongings if you need time before receiving them. We have state-of-the-art facilities, equipped with security and climate control systems, to ensure the protection and preservation of your belongings. Our logistics center is designed to handle and safeguard your belongings efficiently and safely.
How far in advance should I schedule my international move?
Ideally, you should schedule your international move at least 2 to 3 months in advance, although this timeframe may vary depending on the destination and the complexity of the move. The more time you have to plan, the more flexible you’ll be to coordinate all the details, from preparing your belongings to customs clearance.
If you have an urgent move or a shorter timeframe, we can also accommodate your needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us so we can coordinate the process efficiently.
Can I bring my pet with me when I move?
Yes, it is possible to bring your pet with you when you move, but you should keep in mind that each country has different regulations for importing animals. Some of the most common requirements include:
– Mandatory vaccinations (e.g., rabies).
– Health certificate issued by your veterinarian.
– Quarantine periods (some countries require pets to undergo a quarantine period upon arrival).
– Microchip or tattoo to identify your pet.
It is very important that you check the specific regulations of your destination country to ensure you can meet all requirements and avoid any setbacks. At Mercovan, we can help you organize the entire process so your pet travels safely and comfortably!