[D&J]

Hi

Had a 20ft container UK to NZ at cost of £3,800, including marine insurance (at 1.6%) from Robinsons (using NZ Van Lines this end).

We are returning to the UK in September and started to get quotes for same service, but in reverse.

First quote in today from NZ Van Lines (who will use Robinsons in UK). £900 more expensive than to come here with an exchange rate that is almost the same. Have queried this with the shippers and awaiting a reply. Anyone experience a similar thing. I can't quite get my head around the difference in cost for what is the same job. In fact some of our things are still in packed boxes that are complete with seal (we never did get the Christmas Decorations or Camping gear out).

Anyone had a similar experience or able to offer any advice/names of reputable alternative shippers so we can broaden our search.

We are awaiting a price from Crown.

Much appreciated
D&J

[hosebergine]

A friend of ours is in fashion logistics and mentioned a while back when we were momentarily considering self-packing a container that going to the UK is more expensive than going away from it. Something to do with the number of empty containers v's the number of full ones. May have something to do with it...?

[leachio]

Hi D&J

We came back in oct 07 after 7mths and we did do it bit of a rush in the end! We got 3 quotes in 2 days, nz van lines, crown and pickfords. Cant recall exact quotes but think about 10k nzd was close ish. However I do remember pickfords being sooooooooooo pushy and that put us off, nz van lines just seemed a bit slap dash but crown were marvelous and so nice, friendy, helpfull and they had crown at this end too. Equally as efficient and helpfull. Highly recommend them although Ive read diff crown stories on here so I suggest u find which one feels right for u guys.

Good luck with the return and safe journey, :)

[D&J]

Thanks for the replies.

Crown have come in surprisingly lower than we expected so seriously considering them. I have been cheeky enough to ask them to knock a bit more off, just to see how far we can get them down. Also, had a quote from Letton Percival for insurance at 1.6% so have asked Crown to match that. Giving NZ Van Lines the same options but we have decided that if there isn't much between the quotes Crown will be our first choice.

Allied Pickfords coming Monday so should have something firmed up by the end of the week.

Thanks again
D&J

[Janey]

we have had a range of quotes from $9k-$11.8k crown being the most expensive dates not firmed yet so will get better quotes nearer the time just collapsed over cost of blood test for dog to confirm rabies immune $350 + consultation wow!

[irishliz]

We moved back two months ago and managed to get NZ Vanlines at $10,200 with Crown's quote at $10,700 from Wellington to Liverpool for a 20". Both these quotes started off higher and I just asked if there was any chance of a discount considering exchange rates, lower cost of container hire, etc. We felt that was very good. Our friends shipped a 40 footer with NZ vanlines at the same time and their final quote wit NZ vanlines was $13,000 - which is pretty good.

Janey - take it you are returning? If so best of luck.

[Janey]

Thanks Liz just waiting for the 6month post rabies jab then we will be on our way

[LesleyS]

Sad to hear you are leaving the BOP - Did you say on another thread somewhere the reasons you had decided to return to the UK?
Good luck with the removals quote!

[D&J]

Hi All

Managed to get NZ van lines at $9,500 for a full 20ft container and they matched Letton Percival's fully comprehensive insurance at 1.6%. All in all it's quite a good saving on our original quotes so we are pleased. All booked up for packing 14th & 15th September. We'll spend 1 week in a rental and fly out 23rd September.

Thanks again guys!

Much appreciated

D&J

Reason for Leaving: It's just not for us!!

[Craggyfarm]

I am green about shipping. Can anyone advise on shipping costs and arrangements for cars, presumably they have to go in a separate container?