Moving To South Africa

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Moving From NZ (International Move)

Move to South Africa

With NZ's premium worldwide movers

NZ Van Lines is New Zealand’s leading moving and storage company, and one of the world’s most trusted and respected brands in worldwide moving today. For over 35 years we have consistently delivered quality removal services to our customers moving to South Africa from New Zealand.

Your Perfect Partner for Moving from NZ to South Africa

If you are considering moving to South Africa for only a few years or forever NZ Van Lines is the perfect partner for your forthcoming relocation. Every year our removals group manages the highest number of relocations in the industry, both into and out of S.A. Whether you are making the move to Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and everywhere in between we can assist.  Request a free, no obligation moving quote.
 

New Zealand Van Lines has been relocating to South Africa individuals and families since 1986.

Happy Family on the Move with NZ Van Lines

Moving individuals and families to South Africa for over 35 years

After 35 years of building our global partner network, NZ Van Lines can deliver a complete global ‘door to door’ service to individuals and families moving overseas to South Africa.

Our service starts at home with the appointment of a dedicated Moving Consultant to assist with your international move every step of the way. This includes everything from the packing and uplift of your furniture and personal effects, the preparation and lodgement of key documents, right through to the clearances and delivery service to your new South African residence.

In addition to moving your household items we can assist with additional moving services such as; movers insurance, storage, pet relocations, vehicle shipping and more.

International Shipping to South Africa

If you are considering a move South Africa we will provide a seamless door-to-door process. As New Zealand’s biggest volume international mover you can be assured that NZ Van Lines has the best shipping options with regular sailings to all major ports including Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.

Air Freight

Air Freight shipments are generally needed when there are specific personal effects required, within a short time frame. Many customers will have a smaller air freight shipment arriving in advance of their sea freight. This is a popular option for customers moving into temporary accommodation while they wait for their primary shipment, or self-employed workers setting up their business.

Sea Freight Sole-Use Container

Sole-use 20’ or 40’ shipping containers are most often used for complete house loads, and can include additional items e.g. motor vehicles. 

Shipping container to South Africa by Sole-Use is the most efficient and quickest method for a direct door-to-door service. 

Sea Freight Shared Container

Shared or Groupage Containers are a popular choice, often being used for small shipments or when two to three households of personal effects can be consolidated into the same container. Generally, a shared container is very cost effective, as you only pay for the space you use. They are especially popular with less time sensitive customers.

Our Services

International Packing

As New Zealand’s premium worldwide moving company, our removals and packing team are the best in the industry. Our professional moving staff are trained to international packing standards, and have years of experience in export wrapping and packing, stowing, storing, and moving household goods. We will pack everything using materials that are specifically designed to protect your household effects in transit. 

Moving overseas from NZ

Inventory

NZ Van Lines will prepare a detailed inventory of all your items prior to loading; numbering, describing and labelling each item. This document key to ensuring the safe transit of your effects as it is checked and cross-checked while your shipment progresses from uplift through to delivery.

Loading and Transport

Your consignment will be loaded into a secured shipping container for shipment by sea or a customised airfreight container for transportation to South Africa. NZ Van Lines will transport the consignment to the departure port / terminal.

Vehicles / Boats

Cars, motorbikes, trailers, boats etc. are received at our depot for loading; unless collection has been requested. A vehicle condition report will be completed upon arrival at our facility.

Vehicles will be secured in the container, in some instances these will be framed within the container when loaded along with household effects. Motorbikes will have custom built crates.

Documentation

NZ Van Lines will prepare all the export documentation and arrange outward Customs clearance procedures, and manage payments of freight, port or terminal charges at origin and destination.

Clearance

We will manage the clearance of the shipment, excluding Customs duties or taxes or any subsequent treatments ordered as a result of inspection.

Delivery

Your household effects will be safely transported from the port of arrival to your residence. Please note this will be via store to meet local Customs and Quarantine inspection and clearance requirements.

Vehicles will be collected from our partners facility, alternatively delivery can be arranged.

Unpacking

All items will be placed in the appropriate rooms in your new residence, furniture items disassembled by NZ Van Lines will be reassembled.

Items will be unwrapped and placed on a flat surface such as a bench top or table top. 

We will assist with the removal of waste packing materials following delivery.

ADDITIONAL MOVING Services

Secure Storage Solutions

NZ Van Lines provides a broad range of storage solutions for both short and long-term requirements. We can assist with secure and affordable options in either New Zealand or South Africa before or after your household goods are shipped to South Africa.

Insurance

Moving from one location to another involves navigating many challenges, and one of them is concern for the safe transport of your household goods and personal effects.

NZ Van Lines provide a complete range of marine transit insurance options, while your possessions are under our care. You will have full protection for damages, partial or total loss, from the moment our packers arrive at your home, until you take delivery and are unpacked, at your destination.

Money Exchange

New Zealand Van Lines have partnered with Xe Money Transfer, a trusted global payment and foreign exchange specialist to provide highly competitive exchange rates and tailored currency advice to both private individuals and businesses alike. XE is the world’s trusted currency authority used by more than 300+ million people a year.

Pet Relocations

We understand that pets are part of the family, and their welfare and safety are our top priority. We regularly work with trusted pet transport providers to ensure that your pet’s move is stress and hassle-free.

Our Global Standards and Accreditations

FIDI large Logo

FIDI is the world’s largest global alliance of international moving and relocation companies, with members in over 100 countries. All FIDI affiliated companies have one thing in common: their high level of quality service – and we prove it.

IAMTrusted Moving Company designation

IAM (The International Association of Movers) is the moving and forwarding industry’s largest global trade association. With more than 2,000 members, it comprises companies that provide moving, forwarding, shipping and logistics in over 170 countries.

OMNI Logo

OMNI (Overseas Moving Network International) is a network of the world’s finest corporate moving and relocation companies operating on every continent. Represented worldwide by companies that have demonstrated the excellence of their service, market influence, financial security and innovation.

NZOMA Logo

NZOMA (New Zealand Overseas Movers Association) is a national organisation for members who are quality accredited with a global industry specific standard, whose objectives include delivering high professional, financial, ethical, operational standards, and leadership for the New Zealand international moving industry.

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Moving to SA

Moving to South Africa from New Zealand: What You Need to Know

Making the move from New Zealand to South Africa (SA) is an exciting step towards new opportunities, diverse landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Whether you are relocating for work, family, or a lifestyle change, careful planning is essential for a seamless transition.

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KEY INFORMATION FOR MOVING TO SOUTH AFRICA

At NZ Van Lines, we are committed to providing a seamless and stress-free international relocation experience. For individuals and families moving to South Africa, having access to essential information can make the transition even smoother. Below is some further key information.

New Zealanders moving to South Africa will need to secure the appropriate visa. Common visa categories include work visas, business visas, study visas, and retirement visas. Understanding the application process, required documentation, and processing times will help ensure a hassle-free transition.

The cost of living in South Africa varies significantly depending on the city and lifestyle preferences. Housing, utilities, transport, and grocery costs tend to be lower than in New Zealand, but imported goods and private healthcare can be more expensive. 

South Africa has a mix of public and private healthcare options. While private healthcare facilities offer world-class medical services, they can be costly, making health insurance an essential consideration. Information on recommended health insurance providers, access to doctors, and medical emergency procedures can be valuable for new arrivals.

For families moving to South Africa, education is a key consideration. The country offers a range of public, private, and international schools. Many expatriates choose international schools due to their globally recognised curriculums, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge system.

Adjusting to a new culture is an important part of any international move. South Africa is known for its rich cultural diversity, with 11 official languages and distinct regional customs. Researching information on local etiquette, business culture, and social norms can help newcomers integrate more easily into their new community.

Like any country, South Africa has areas that are safer than others. Understanding security measures, choosing safe neighborhoods, and following local safety advice can help expatriates feel more secure.

South Africa’s climate varies across regions, with Cape Town experiencing a Mediterranean climate, Johannesburg having a subtropical highland climate, and Durban offering a humid, coastal environment. New residents should be prepared for seasonal changes and lifestyle differences, such as the prominence of outdoor activities, vibrant city life, and world-renowned wildlife experiences.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about New Zealand Van Lines international moving services. We look forward to being of service to you! To speak with one of our friendly Move Managers call: 0800 362 236