Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
What services do you provide ?
We can ship anything from one box to full container loads i.e. personal effects, household goods and commercial cargo.
Can I use my own boxes, trunks or suitcase etc. ?
Yes, you can use your own packaging. Please ensure that the method of packaging is strong enough to carry the weight of the contents.
Beware of volumetric weight, please see below. All packages must be labeled with address and contact details. If you lock the suitcases please send the keys with the suitcase when collected in case of a customs inspection. If no keys are available then the locks may be broken by customs.
How do I calculate volumetric weight ?
Length: 40 cms (L)
Width: 50 cms (W)
Height: 60 cms (H)
The volumetric formula is: (LxWxH) / 6000 = ?
(40x50x60) / 6000 = 20.00 Kg (This is the accepted international volume calculation and cannot be amended)
You will be charged on the greater weight being either actual weight or volumetric weight.
Do you provide boxes ?
Yes we can. This will include bubble-wrap and tape. If boxes and packing material are to be supplied a non-refundable deposit will be required which will be deducted off your final invoice.
Do I send my goods via Air or Sea ?
Smaller shipments of up to 100kg are more advisable to send by air as this can sometimes be more cost effective. However please check with us and we can advise which is the better option for your shipment. The urgency of your shipment will also determine the mode of transport.
Do you pick up boxes from my house ?
Yes we do collections throughout South Africa.
Can you pick up some boxes from one address and the rest from a different address ?
Yes. Additional addresses are subject to an additional charge.
How big are your boxes ?
45x45x50 cms. These boxes are double walled for durability.
What is the maximum weight per box ?
We suggest a maximum weight of 30kg per parcel. If you pack more than 30kg make sure the box is robust enough to handle the extra weight.
What does “Door to the Port” mean ?
This means we are only responsible for sending your boxes from your house to the destination port. The receiver is responsible for customs clearance of the shipment through the Customs Authority abroad, the payment of local port and handling charges and the transportation from the port to the house.
What does “Door to Door” mean ?
This means cargo collected from your door, delivered to destination address. All charges for shippers account.
The only charges that may be applicable at the destination could be customs examinations and storage if applicable.
Can I do my own customs clearance ?
Yes, certainly. The procedure for doing this is slightly different from one country to another. The alternative is to use the service of a customs broker or a freight forwarding agent, who can clear your goods through Customs on your behalf. They will also be able to arrange the transportation of the goods from the port to your house. There will be destination charges applicable if sent on a door to port basis.
What are prohibited goods ?
Here is a list of goods that can not be sent by Air but may be able to be sent by Sea after correct packaging. Please enquire if you require any information in this regard.
Fireworks, ammunition, firearms, explosives.
Cylinders of compressed air, oxygen, petroleum gas or any type of aerosil cans.
Camping stove, cigarette / pipe lighters or cigarette lighter refills.
Nail polish, colognes, perfumes, paint or paint thinners.
Matches or Batteries.
Dry ice, specimens or samples.
Detergents, bleaches, drain or oven cleaners.
Fibre glass repair kits, adhesives and puncture repair kits.
Alcohol or medicine containing alcohol.
Any type of chemical / pesticide / herbicides etc.
Machinery that has internal combustion engines that might have contained petrol.
Do you provide insurance ?
Yes insurance can be provided if required. Please enquire.
When will my shipment depart ?
As soon as all documentation and payment has been received.
How do I pay ?
Either Cash Deposits or EFT Transfers are accepted.
If paid by cheque shipments will only be dispatched once money has cleared.
How do I get a quote ?
Please email us with the details of your shipment at info@personaleffectslogistics.co.za and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Quotes are estimates only based on information given and are valid for 14 days. Firm quotes can only be given once cargo has been collected, weighed and measured and packaging checked for transportation purposes.
Please note if you do get a better quote let us know and we will try our best to beat it…