UniGroup assigns a certified move manager to provide the best method of transport and manage multiple arrangements required in order to meet specific scheduling needs. A single-point-of-contact coordinates all aspects of relocation from origin to destination within our UniGroup network of agents in the U.S. and overseas.

Means of Transport

Lift-Vans

• Constructed of plywood with a 2-inch by 4-inch wooden frame. Skids are attached to the bottom of the container so it can be handled by a forklift.
• Lift-vans are usually lined with water-resistant paper and may be caulked as necessary to keep your goods dry. After caulking, steel straps are placed around the outside to secure the lift-van.
• Standard sizes are 185 to 210 cubic feet. Other sizes can be built to hold bulky items.
• Generally used if total shipment weighs less than 4,000 pounds.
• Can be used for storage as well as transportation, which prevents additional handling
• Can easily be inspected for customs clearance.
• Preferred when the destination country lacks the capacity to handle steamship containers.

Steamship Containers

• Constructed of steel and resemble motor freight trailers.
• Twenty-foot containers hold approximately 1,100 cubic feet while 40-foot units hold about 2,200 cubic feet.
• Can hold more than a single lift-van and are used for large or bulky shipments. To effectively use a steamship container, a minimum of 700 cubic feet (approximately 4,000 pounds) is suggested.
• May not be available for shipping to some countries.
• Provided by ocean carriers and may not be utilized for storage purposes.
• Due to their construction, allow for best protection of a shipment compared to other containers.
• Can result in lower transportation charges if the minimum requirement for weight and volume are met.

Air Freight Containers

• Constructed of triple-layered corrugated cardboard, they range in size from 18 to 96 cubic feet. Larger containers are fitted with skids for ease in moving with a forklift.
• Restricted to certain dimensional specifications in order to pass through aircraft cargo doors.

Ways of Transport

After the household goods have been packed and loaded into the appropriate container, UniGroup Relocation will arrange door-to-door transportation. The shipment may be moved by rail or motor freight to the port of exit. Whether it is a seaport or an airport depends upon the mode of transportation selected. More than one mode of transportation will be required - either ocean or air for the longest part, plus truck or rail to and from entry and departure points.

Motor Carrier

• Provides unlimited access to most geographical areas through the United States.
• More cost effective than air transportation to a port.
• Used to transport steamship containers and lift-vans.
• Provides expedited pickup when necessary.

Railroad

• Capable of transporting more goods in certain trade lanes by stacking steamship containers.
• More cost effective than a motor freight carrier.
• Frequently used to transport steamship containers to and from an ocean port.

Ocean

• Most common way to transport shipments internationally.
• Usually less expensive than air freight.
• Normally comprises the longest leg of a move, in terms of distance and time spent in transit.

Air Freight

• Reduces transit time; used to send time-sensitive items.
• Recommended for certain countries, depending on the nature of the shipment and final destination.
• Ideal for smaller shipments.
• Allows you to quickly settle into a new environment.