Author: zider1
Subject: Urgent advice on shipping from Boston to Middle East – Kuwait
Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2009 2:47 am (GMT -6)
Topic Replies: 0

Currently I am live in Boston, USA and intend to relocate to Kuwait by the end of February 2009. Since we are allowed only two check-in baggage on the flight (50 lbs each), we are exploring our options to ship the personal and household items such as clothes, books, linen, kitchenware, misc knick knacks and a 32″ LCD TV.

At the moment, I believe that we would have a maximum of 7-8 boxes – measuring 20″x20″x20″(weighing about 50 lbs each), and one box measuring 34″x10″x24″. My estimate of the total weight would in the range of 400 lbs with a total value of less than $2400.

I have already a bunch of online freight forwarding/ shipping companies and received quotes ranging between $400-$500. Basically, I wouldn’t mind a transit time of no more than 45 days for delivery at the point of destination (Kuwait). Considering that this is overall a relatively small load (LCL);

1. What are my best options that would be both cost effective and reliable?

2. Do I require specific custom clearance papers to ship personal items – whether it is an air freight or ocean freight?

3. Am I entitled to pay duty? (the only electronic item I shall be sending is a used LCD TV)

4. How much would an insurance cost on such a shipment?

5. Can I pack the goods myself and hand the boxes over to the service provider/shipping company or is it mandated that I must have packers from the company do the job?

I am in dilemma as I am running out of time and really confused as to how to go about with this relocation business!! I would appreciate if you guys could guide and assist me. Thanks a lot in advance
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zhyder