Shipping to Israel        

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Could not find one ?  Feel free to contact us at  toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net  or via "contact us" and we will try to help you.

General:

One of the most complex and sensitive issues regarding your overseas

relocation is the shipping of your belongings.

At the beginning of this chapter some of the key subjects such as packing, type of services available and customs regulations etc. will be mentioned. Later on these crucial issues which you must be well aware of in order to choose the best overseas shipping company for your personalized needs, will be explained to you in detail.

Reading carefully through this chapter will save you much time, money and frustration. The chapter will raise some of the possible problems which can occur and other important issues that shipping companies do not always like to mention. In this chapter, the reader will be wisely advised how to protect himself in advance.

In today’s market there is a large number of overseas shippers. Some are large companies and more famous while others are smaller but just as well competitive. Each company will attempt to convince you that it can provide the best service for the lowest cost. The main question is which company is indeed the BEST shipper and whose services will be most satisfying for your needs.

Due to our objectivity, we will analyze for you all advantages of such a move. Understanding that the term BEST in this specific case does not carry a general meaning but a personal one. Besides the well known criteria by which one decides upon a shipping company, such as trustworthy, reliable services and right price, you must also look into the shipper’s specialized destination points. Some companies ship more than others, and they might have an edge on services and prices to those specific locations.

Services Available:

Warehouse to Door, Warehouse to Port (Destination), Door to Port (Destination) and Door to Door (Destination).

Exclusive 20’ and 40’ containers door to door

The price for door to door service includes the following:

1.  Preliminary packing of breakable goods at your home.

2.  Removal from your residence for delivery to shipper’s plan for final  

     export packing.

3.  Receiving your goods and consolidating all outside purchases at

     shipper’s plant.

4.  Export packing into heavy duty wooden lift vans and/or containers.

5.  Placing the van into steel containers.

6.  Preparation of all documents.

7.  Delivery to steamship line.

8.  Pre-payment of all ocean freight.

9.  Releasing your effects at the Israeli port.

10. Destination services include – Custom clearance, In house delivery, unpacking and removal of all debris.

Warehouse to port service include #’s 3 through 9. Warehouse to Door service include #s 3 through 10. Door to Port service include #’s 1 through 9.

Pre-Move Check List:

Phone the moving/shipping company 2 – 3 months before moving date.

Plan items to be shipped.

Purchase new items to be shipped.

Make itemized inventory.

Determine value of the inventory.

Confirm moving date.

Confirm arriving date at destination.

Make storage arrangements (on both ends, if necessary).

Have all documents and valuables with you, including passport, record of inoculations, visa if necessary, invoices of new items, etc.

Agents’ name and address – date of sailing – expected arrival date – container number – number of units shipped for you.

Provide list of purchases made and being delivered to warehouse. Itemized list of goods being shipped with dollar value for insurance purposes.

Provide notify address in Israel so shipper’s office can contact you.

Most Important: After packing your goods into a metal container it is most recommended to put your own lock on it and keep the key for yourself (in

addition to the seal and lock the shipping company will put on).

Estimate -  The first step is to have an estimator visit your home to make a complete evaluation. There is no charge for this survey and, or course, you are under no obligation whatsoever. Examining, room by room, item by item, the estimator can determine the shipping method best suited to your particular needs. You will be advised of the approximate volume (cubic meter/footage) involved, the most economical and efficient way to proceed, and all other aspects of your move will be discussed in full detail. It’s highly recommended to take this opportunity to have all your questions answered by this qualified estimator. If you like to do your own estimate, please consult with a table of measurements.

Planning To Move – Items to ship; this decision, of course, must be made by yourself after judging all factors. Obviously, it will be simple one if you have an apartment secured, know the size of the rooms, have a floor plan made, and know just how your furniture and appliances will fit. Our only advice in this case would be to make certain that the delivery into the apartment will not create any insurmountable problems because of oversized couches, pianos, etc. The dimensions of halls and stairways have to be considered; elevators and lifts in Israel are sometimes too small to be used for transportation of large items. The decision will be more difficult for those who do not have definite apartments yet and who, for the first few months, will go into temporary housing. In these instances, our advice is “be selective”. Take the things which are generally suitable for Israel, or which you simply, do not wish to part with, but bear in mind the different mode of living in Israel (more out-door living terraces, smaller apartments and smaller rooms). Also consider the cost of shipping. Make sure that the article is not only desirable for your new home in Israel, but is worthwhile to take. Know your privileges with respect to the customs regulations. Laws are subject to change and the latest customs information should be obtained. Please see the Israeli customs web site .

ITEMS NOT TO SHIP: To avoid financial loss, it is recommended not to ship the items mentioned in the following list. Any questions concerning the importation of any item should be addressed to the nearest Israeli Consulate General or write us toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net , please also see "Contact us".

1.  Valuable Papers

2.  Stamp Collection

3.  Coin Collection

4.    Valuable  Jewelry

5.    Pressure Spray Cans

6.    Inflammable Items

7.    Liquid Bleach

8.    Opened Liquid Glass Bottles

9.    Excessive Food Staples

10. Fire Arms (License required)

11. Live plants or seeds (License required)

12. Broadcast Equip. or Walkie – Talkie (License required)

13. New Building Material

14. Alcohol (Hand Luggage Only).

(*) Caution: Do not include in your shipment items belonging to others. Customs examination may reveal importation of duplicate or restricted items resulting in fines penalties or confiscation.

HOW TO PACK  - preliminary packing of dishes, silver, crystal and other breakables should be left to shipping company professionals. They can do it better and in a fraction of the time. However, if you prefer to do your own pre-packing for reasons of convenience or economy we suggest you follow the instructions listed below:

Tips On Packing:

Appliances & Utensils – Wrap and place small appliances and utensils in sturdy cartons with the heaviest items on bottom. Nest pots & pans wherever possible to conserve space.

Books – Pack in small cartons, Alternate bindings.

Bric-a-Brac – Wrap separately and pack tightly so that items can’t shift during handling.

Chinaware, Glassware, Silverware & Valuable Articles – Breakable items should be wrapped individually in paper. Large plates and heavy pieces should be placed on the bottom of the container, on edge. Smaller plates, cups and saucers toward the top. Plated and dishes should be placed in a vertical position with pads of paper in between. Recommended – 3” of paper on the bottom and 2” of paper between layers. Do not pack above edge of container.

Clothing, Draperies, Linen, Towels – Software should be folded and neatly packed into clean cartons or bureau drawers. Medium sized carton would suit this purpose.

Footlockers & Trunks – Both are useful in shipping light items and soft goods. They are marked, steel strapped, and put directly into the steel container. Wood boxing would not be necessary which represents a saving to you.

Glasstops, mirrors, painting and marble – We suggest these items be wrapped and then crated. For small mirrors, paintings, etc. carefully wrap each and place on edge in cartons.

Lamps & Lampshades – Remove bulbs and shades and pack lamps with linen or wrap separately and place in clean cartons. Shades should be wrapped completely in tissue and placed in large tissue linen cartons.

Rugs – Should be rolled and wrapped in plastic.

Tools – Remove all fuel from power tools. (do not ship flammable fuel under any circumstances). Pack tools in small strong cartons. Wrap separately if fragile.

(*) Final Export Packing - After preliminary packing and effects have all been received at shipper warehouse, the goods are measured for the final phase of boxing. All interior space is utilized so that shipper provides you with a maximum density factor. The shipping company should invite you to be present at their plant during the packing procedure so that you may bring last minute items that may be included.

(*) Cubic Meter / Feet -  The cost of your shipment is determined by the services provided and the outside cubic volume of your shipment.(For US shippers - to determine the cubic feet of a particular item, measure three sides and multiply the length by width by the depth inches then divide the result by 1728.

Example: 2’x 2’ x 2’ – 8 cubic feet 24”x 24” x 24” divide = 1728 = 8 cubic feet.

EXPORT PACKING OF ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES it is our recommendation that when purchasing heavy electrical appliances as a separate shipment without household effects, they should be Export Packed in addition of factory packed.

Although appliances export packed are more costly to ship, we recommend it since this sort of packing reduce the danger of damaging your appliances upon their arrival. Please keep in mind that replacement and repairing charges of appliances in Israel are much more costly than the additional expense of export packing.

(*) Purchases - some shipping companies will provide you with tax exemption letters addressed to your suppliers with instructions that the goods are to be delivered to shipper’s plant for consolidation and shipment abroad. These letters are accepted by all suppliers as an exemption from local taxes (defers from country to country). Consolidations are held at the shipping company plant at no additional charge. The shipper should keep on file, records of all items received for your account. A copy of receipts should be mailed to you. Please note that you are responsible to oversee that all your purchases arrive prior to your own departure. However, in instances where this is not possible, it is recommended that you leave a complete list with shipper of all purchases made. Shipper will keep in touch with your supplies and see to it that your shipment does not go out before all merchandise arrives.

(*) Note of caution – Many suppliers are not following through in delivering all purchases. Costly problems may arise if singular items are sent at a later date. We recommend that your effects be in the warehouse 2 weeks prior to date of sailing.

This will enable shipper to give your shipment the personal attention and time required to complete the export boxing, paperwork and all necessary shipping arrangements.

(*) Insurance (See also a separate chapter) - There are several very reputable Israeli insurance companies that are offering all risk marine Insurance on shipments of household effects. We highly recommend to use one of these Israeli companies, after all damages and losses will be found only when shipment arrives to Israel and it will be much easier to deal directly with a local company (most recommended company, "Maagan",  you can contact at toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net . At the same time, in order to fully protect your interests it is your responsibility to provide the insurance company with a detailed dollar value inventory list. The lack of such an inventory or any discrepancy or inaccuracy in the data for value stated in the inventory may complicate or delay settlement of claims covered under insurance policy.

Claim procedure requires that you notify the nearest claims office as indicated in your insurance policy for survey of damage, immediately after taking delivery of your effects. You may do this by phone or in person, but do not fail to make a written report, keep a copy and, if no action has been taken by the visit of a surveyor, then you must repeat this call – to be followed, if necessary, by a register letter. The surveyor’s report, original insurance certificate, packing slips, bills, and other documents, as required, will be submitted to the underwriters for approval of the claim. This procedure may take some time regardless of the company involved. However, a well documented claim will expedite settlement.

Storage in Israel

When your cargo arrives to Israel and your apartment is not ready yet, you will have to think about storing your belongings for some time. It is important to know your options (*) in this field:

Small shipment (less than a container load):

      1. First 30 days at the port are FREE.

2. From day 31^st, you will pay (about) $2 a day.

3. If you need storage for a few months, it’s recommended to contact a  

    professional storage company.

Big shipment – Full container load

Payments to Israel port authority:

1.  First 4 days are free.

2.  Fifth day – 20’ container will pay $18, while 40’ container will pay $27.

Each additional day, price PER DAY will go up substantially !  

Payments to steamship line companies:

1.  First week FREE.

2.  Second week - $10 per day.

      3. Third week - $20 per day.

4.    Each additional week, price per day will go up.

(*) Olim get discount on above prices.

Necessary documents to expedite clearance through customs:

Your and your spouse valid passports and your children who are dependents. (including, all previous passports if any)

Teudat Oleh (Oleh certificate).

Fully detailed list contents.

Contract or lease of your apartment.

Invoices for any new appliances and other purchases.

Insurance list.

Shipper’s Bill of Landing (if you will customs clear your belongings)

Letter from your Moshav, Kibbutz, or yeshiva etc.

Marine insurance

Why pay more? Get a discounted Toshav Hozer Rate

(Get a free quote for your cargo and save hundreds of dollars from the most recommended insurance agent  "Imperia" at: imperia@bezeqint.net )

I have been in the business of  moving people to Israel for many years. I have dealt with thousands of returning Israelis and Olim and have never seen anyone ships his/her belongings without taking out a marine insurance policy.

Despite the above statistics, many people approach me each year and question on the validity of such an act. “Do we really need it?” they ask. “What will happen if…? Well, I have only one answer to give. Yes it is a must for every person moving to Israel! After all, this is not your typical local move from one block to another, or from one city to another. It is a move across the ocean which passes through many hands and goes through many obstacles.

In light of this, you need a strong insurance policy to back you up and protect you.

This insurance policy could be your only remedy in case of a damage, missing items or any catastrophes that may occur. There is no other way to protect your belongings.

Now after we have “solved” the question of whether you need to take out an insurance policy for your shipment, we would have to deal with more difficult questions, mainly, of choosing one that fits your needs, and what questions you should ask before signing a contract.

I should also like to add that I highly recommend that the insurance company you choose be based in Israel. In order to insure your shipment for its full replacement value, it is best that your agent be established or have office in Israel. There can be no and’s, if’s or but’s on this one! In turn, an Israeli based agent can provide you with any further service you might have need of, make it beneficial to you both.

A few more tips on going about selecting a company and questions that should be asked:

1. Contact the insurance company/agency two or three months prior to   

    your departure.

2. Ask for the “all risk” policy. It is by far the most comprehensive and  

    protective one you can get.

3. Find out how much deductible is in case of a claim. Sometimes,  

    insurance companies ask for special deductible for special individual

    items, as for piano, art pieces, etc.

4. Find out if the insurance policy covers the shipment of your goods from

    the appliance store to the shippers warehouse.

5. Find out if the insurance policy covers:                                                                           A. Storage in your origin country (and how long?) 
B. Storage in Israel (if necessary).
C. Delivery from port of arrival (Haifa, Ashdod) to your apartment in Israel.

6. Insurance companies ask for appraisal for high value items such as art  

    pieces, fur coats, oriental and chinese rugs, etc.

7. Special packing will be required by the insurance company for piano, art

    pieces, etc. (And also separate deductible).

8. Cameras and Jewelry are not covered by insurance policy unless you  

    coordinate with your insurance company.

9. In case of stolen items or damage, you can not file a complaint with the

    insurance company unless:
A. This item is on the shipping company’s list.
B. This item is declared on customs papers.

10. Let the moving company pack you belongings, the breakable. It will be easier for you in the long run to file a claim with the insurance company if the moving company did the packing.

11. In case you file a claim for stolen or damaged items, The following documents are required:
A. Original receipt of that item.
B. Shipping company packing list.
C. Bill of landing of your shipment.
D. Appraisal by the insurance company for the damage.
E. Customs declaration. (The item must be on it)
F. Copy of your policy report.
G. Insurance policy issued by the insurance company.
H. If you found out about the damage or stolen items while the shipment was still at the port, you have to file a complaint with the port authority and submit it to the insurance company.