Palmers Relocations News - Blog

GETTING UNDER THE SKIN OF KIERAN O’HARA

Palmers Relocations — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:07:57 +0000

In the fast-paced world of relocation, where meticulous planning meets the unpredictable nature of change, Steve Jordan embarked on a quest to uncover the essence of one of the industry’s wild men—Kieran O’Hara from Palmers Relocations. Some may call it bravery, while others might label it as sheer folly, but for Steve, it was a captivating journey of exploration.

Embark on this insightful expedition with us as Steve Jordan engages with Kieran O’Hara, unravelling the stories, passions, and motivations that shape one of the key figures at Palmers Relocations. Get ready to discover the man beyond the persona and gain a profound understanding of what truly makes Kieran O’Hara tick in the dynamic world of the moving industry. So, here we go.

I have interviewed Kieran O’Hara from Palmers Relocations in Australia. Some might say I am brave. Or is it foolish? But for me, interviewing anyone is a voyage of discovery. Many of us know the people, or we think we do. It’s my job to get a little under the skin, do some gentle digging, unearth perhaps a side of a person’s character that they keep hidden for the most part. Find the person beyond the persona.

And for Kieran that persona is larger than life. He’s young, pony-tailed, charismatic, enthusiastic, optimistic, successful and has a reputation of being something of a hell-raiser. If there’s a group at a conference out on the razzle until the sun comes up it’s a reasonable bet that Kieran is involved. But there must be more. Is it just a front? Is the real Kieran O’Hara a quiet, introspective introvert who gently takes a back seat to his brash cousin every time a name badge goes around his neck? I was intrigued to find out.

His upbringing was unconventional. His parents emigrated to Australia in late 1986 where they raised eight children. Kieran was number seven. His dad was Shay O’Hara, he’d been the lead singer with an Irish show band called Royal Blues. He also had a successful solo career, travelling widely, including Australia, having hit singles and selling out in Las Vagas. It was a lifestyle that continued after the family’s emigration. “He used to hang around with Elvis and dated Dolly Parton,” said Kieran. Kieran has a poster at home declaring ‘Shay O’Hara sold out, Tom Jones tickets available’. “He was away a lot and mum got pregnant every time he came home.” Shay died in 2009. “Having a legacy where your children can still hear your voice is special.” You can listen to Shay with Royal Blues here.

Kieran didn’t know what he wanted to do when he left school, but he had a friend whose father worked for a local moving company. He encouraged him to take a job there. “I was on the road during the day and did my university studies in the evening,” said Kieran. He was studying business. He admitted that being with a bunch of lads all day led him into some bad habits. “One day I was asked to do an office move in the evening, but I said I couldn’t because I had my university work. The following day I was called up to HR. I assumed I was in trouble. But they offered me a job in the office.”

He chose not to accept. Not because he didn’t want office work. “The salary was half what I was earning on the road.”

Then the company offered him a job with a commission. That suited his personality much better. He was soon breaking targets and earning good money. “I did no admin during the day, just selling,” he said. “I’d do the paperwork in the evening.” But then, of course, the commission structure was changed and Kieran joined Crown, first in records management and then in business development. He was here when his father died in 2009. That changed everything.

He left the industry to join the family business with his brother who, according to Kieran is “A lad if there ever was one”. The company sold electrical parts for ovens. It was a lucrative business and Kieran was able to inject his creative abilities into it to make it more so. But it wasn’t for him. Aged 27 he returned to the moving industry for a short stint with Kents in Sydney.

It was around this time that he met Greg Palmer, a Kiwi who had expanded his antiques business in Christchurch and now had a moving and self-storage company in Melbourne and Adelaide. Kieran joined Palmers in 2013 as a sales manager. “I was able to earn money very fast for them. Revenue went through the roof. I think we doubled every year for five or six years.” Kieran now owns the business with Greg and Greg’s son, James.

During that time Kieran was able to introduce Palmers’ Relocations to the world of international moving. He remembers going to London for the BAR conference in the early days. “I thought if I could get this one market correct then the rest would follow. I’d never been to an international moving conference and I didn’t know one person there. Nobody had heard of Palmers, most companies were domestic movers and everyone seemed to be in their own cliques. I was like a fish out of water. I was shunned by everybody, and it was really hard. It was probably my inexperience as well. I think BAR is a lot better now.”

Despite that shaky start, the business has been a success. I wondered what was his secret of selling. Is it just hard work or is there a technique? “Everyone across the industry is looking at automation,” he said. “It’s important, but it’s only important for the people who don’t know how to sell. There’s nothing better than just picking up the phone and talking to somebody. Old school techniques.”

Palmers Relocations has corporate accounts but until recently had not worked with RMCs. Kieran doesn’t sound convinced about the RMC working model, but he acknowledges that there are some benefits. “They are as competitive as hell and the payment terms are terrible,” he said. “But it is an area where the work comes to you, and you don’t have any marketing costs. If you get your costings right, you can do OK.” He does acknowledge though that Australia is a big country and there are not too many professional international moving companies, so perhaps the industry has more leverage there than in other countries.

As far as payments are concerned, he says he has a “huge moral compass”. “I won’t tolerate companies not paying. There’s no point in doing business if you are not going to get paid.” He said that no matter how much business an account was giving him, he would turn it down if the payment terms were not right. “For some companies, it’s the thing that’s keeping you alive that’s killing you.” He has the same attitude to those who work for him. “I pay all my suppliers on time. I don’t want them having to worry about feeding their families.”

Kieran is also not a fan of contra payments. He’s been caught before. “People don’t realise the danger. Companies can both owe each other $400,000 but if one goes under, the other still has the debt. It’s happened to me. I got burned and it won’t happen again.”

Has the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle his father lived rubbed off on Kieran? “That’s the reason I am the way I am. It’s genetic,” he said. His siblings are the same. “It was a rough and ready upbringing; we’ve all got balls of steel. We would all give up everything for something we believed in. I will roll the dice on anything. I would not be scared. I’ve come from nothing, and I’m prepared to go back to it.”

That said, life changes. Kieran now has a five-year-old daughter. He is devoted to her. He has learned how to stop work. He knows what’s really important. I asked Kieran more about his personal life, but that was a step too far. Despite his uncompromising style, there are some things that even Kieran O’Hara wants to keep to himself.

He also knows that he has a responsibility to the people who work with him. “Big time. That’s a massive one.” But he’s also worldly enough to know that people can sometimes let you down. “Sometimes you get burned by the people that work with you, but you just have to move on. You can’t let it make you bitter. The next person will not be the same.”

I wondered too about Kieran’s management style. Is he quiet and methodical in the office? He thinks not. He knows he has charisma and knows that he must be careful how he applies it. “It can be easy to control people but sometimes you have to step back and let somebody else be the superstar,” he explained. “You can’t always put yourself out there or you’ll get shot down. You’ve just got to use your influence in the right way. For example, if I see a newcomer at a conference I will always try to help them. Some people try to make themselves bigger by being mean. That’s not my style. Better to be nice to people.” Maybe it was his experience at BAR that made him that way.

Despite this caring attitude, Kieran doesn’t think he’s a very good manager. “I’m very good at making money but I’m a very poor manager. Other managers are far calmer than me. They’re not directly involved in the sale as I would be. Management is all about getting the best out of other people and I’m not great at it. I get the best out of me. I don’t always have the time my employees need, being so busy myself, it’s something I need to improve on.”

So, what’s my conclusion? Who is the real Kieran O’Hara? Well, everyone is complex. Everyone is a mix of characters. Everyone has their business façade and their private face. Kieran has too. Despite having a strong opinion on everything, and the ability to influence others in his way of thinking, there are things he keeps private. Of course, he does. But, the truth is, the Kieran O’Hara you see at conferences, the fast-living, try-anything, one-of-the-lads, super-confident, extrovert, is the real Kieran O’Hara. That’s the way he is. His dad was the same and so are all his brothers and sisters. What you see, is what you get.

“Whatever happens, people can rely on me for one thing,” said Kieran. “I always speak the brutal truth.”

Interview by Steve Jordan: https://tinyurl.com/SteveJordann

From Pantry to Your New Place: Essential Tips for Packing Your Food during a Move

Palmers Relocations — Wed, 17 May 2023 01:44:21 +0000

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and exhausting. But hey, let’s not forget about one essential aspect of the move: packing your food! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some easy steps to make sure your food items survive the journey, whether it’s a local, interstate, or even an international move.

First things first, take a good look at what you’ve got lurking in your kitchen. Categorize them into two groups: the perishable and the non-perishable. This way, you’ll have a better idea of what needs to be handled with extra care.

Now, let’s tackle those perishables. Nobody wants to waste good food, so it’s time to get creative with your meal planning. Start consuming or donating perishable items like fresh produce, meat, and dairy products before moving day. It’s like a delicious challenge to finish everything off!

Next up, double-check those expiration dates. It’s a sad reality, but we must bid farewell to any food that’s past its prime or close to it. Say goodbye to those expired items and make room for the fresh and tasty ones!

For the non-perishable goods, it’s time to gather them up and pack them like a pro. Sturdy boxes are your best friends here. Place those cans, spices, and dry goods securely in the boxes, making sure to label them for easy finding later. You wouldn’t want to mix up your favorite snacks with your cleaning supplies!

Now, let’s not forget about those open packages or loose items. They can be a bit mischievous during a move, so transfer them into sealable bags. This way, you’ll avoid any unexpected spills or unpleasant surprises when unpacking.

Oh, and here’s a heads-up: liquids can be quite the troublemakers. Avoid packing sauces, oils, or beverages, unless you want a gooey mess on your hands. Finish them up or give them away to avoid any accidents. Safety first, folks!

But wait, there’s more! If you’re moving with frozen goodies or refrigerated items, don’t panic. Grab some coolers or insulated bags and fill them up with ice packs to keep things fresh during the journey. Your ice cream will thank you later.

Now, let’s talk about preparing food for moves when removalists are helping you. Communication is key here. Inform the removalists in advance about any special food items, particularly those with specific storage or transportation requirements.

For local moves, coordinate with the removalists to ensure that food items are packed securely and transported with care. They can provide guidance on how to properly package delicate or temperature-sensitive items to maintain their freshness.

In the case of interstate moves, it’s important to consider the duration of the journey and the potential for varying climates. Discuss with the removalists the need for specialized packagings, such as coolers or insulated containers, to preserve the quality of perishable or temperature-sensitive items during transit.

When it comes to international moves, there may be additional regulations and restrictions to consider, particularly related to customs and quarantine. Consult with both the removalists and relevant authorities to ensure compliance with any necessary food import/export regulations. Removalists experienced in international moves can provide valuable advice and support in navigating these requirements.

Regardless of the type of move, it’s a good idea to label your food boxes clearly and make a note of any fragile or perishable contents. This way, the removalists can handle them accordingly and ensure they are stored appropriately upon arrival at your new home.

Remember, open communication with the removalists and proper preparation of your food items will help ensure safe transit. If you have any questions, Palmers Relocations consultants are more than happy to help prepare you for your move.

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Benefits of hiring a moving company

Palmers Relocations — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 21:55:19 +0000

If you’re planning a move, hiring a professional removalist company can be a great choice to help make sure your belongings get to their destination safely and on time. Here are some of the benefits of using a removalist company:

1. Professionalism and Safety: Professional removalists have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to safely move and transport your items, including large, heavy furniture and delicate items. They also adhere to safety regulations, so you can rest assured your belongings are in good hands. Memberships and accreditations like FIDI, FAIM, IAM, AFRA, BAR etc indicate that the company upholds certain quality standard, engage in regular training and have processes in place to ensure a smooth moving experience.

2. Time Savings: With a removalist company, you don’t need to spend time packing, loading, and unloading items. Professional movers are experienced and efficient at doing these tasks, so you can spend your time on other important tasks related to your move. While it would take you days or even a week to pack, removalists are trained to safely pack, load and move the entire household in no time. Moreover, leaving the heavy lifting to removalists allows for avoiding bruises, back pain and other types of injuries.

3. Stress Relief: Moving to a new home can be a stressful experience. With a removalist company, you can delegate the task of packing and moving your items, so you can focus on other things like preparing your new home, arranging for utilities, planning the arrangement of furniture and more. Removalists like Palmers Relocations also provide Valet Unpacking Services where all belongings get unpacked, organised, and neatly put away in their correct locations. Everything is done and you can sit down, relax and enjoy the rest of the day in your new home.

4. Money Savings: Even though using a moving service can be costly, choosing the right moving company will save you money. Professional and experienced moving consultants will be able to assess the volume and requirements of your move, suggest the best solution and provide a precise quote. When comparing the offers, don’t forget to check what is included in the price.

Overall, there are many benefits to hiring a professional removalist company for your move. With the right company, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your belongings will be handled with care and arrive on time and in the same condition they left in.

Why we recommend an in-home or virtual survey?

Palmers Relocations — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 00:19:47 +0000

If you are moving homes, your chosen moving company will need to know the volume (size) of the move to be able to provide you with an estimated moving quote. The volume of 2- or 3-bedroom homes may vary significantly based on individuals, their habits, lifestyle, living arrangements, and the relocation cost.

In order to provide a professional service, an accurate quote, and a pleasant moving experience, we at Palmers Relocations provide obligation-free in-home and virtual surveys to learn more about the move. And what better way if not having an experienced home relocation specialist assessing the volume of the move for you?

Our moving consultant will arrive at the residence or connect virtually at a designated time to conduct a survey.
During the survey you will discuss:

What furniture, personal belongings, and white goods will require removal? If all furniture will be taken or some items will get sold or given away to friends and family. Information like this will make a difference in the end.
Suppose you have any sentimental, expensive, important, or fragile item(s) that require extra care or special packing/moving requirements. By letting consultants know about these items, it will allow preparing additional packing materials to ensure extra care and safety during transit.
Address of current and the new place. Is it an apartment or a house? Are there specific access requirements such as parking restrictions, and lift access requirements for either location? It will help to prepare for a smooth move and arrange for any additional equipment or permits if necessary.
It is also important that we know in advance specifics like narrow staircases, hallways, or elevators as it may affect the way how certain items will get moved. It may require dismantling in order to fit the item and to stay efficient, at Palmers Relocations, we can prepare for it.

Our consultant also can arrange transit insurance or offer storage solutions if required. Some clients after selling their homes or moving out of the rental home, decide to travel and need a place to store belongings until found their new home. We can accommodate such moving requirements and create a removal plan tailored to the needs and provide full door-to-door service and everything in between.

A survey is an excellent opportunity for clients to ask questions, discuss and negotiate additional services like vehicle or pet relocation, home exit cleaning or handyman services, packing and wrapping requirements, and what to expect on a moving day. Anything that will help prepare you and your family for the transition and put your mind at ease.

After the survey, we will assess the information and calculate the volume of the move, necessary truck size, the number of movers and packing materials, evaluate if additional equipment is necessary for efficiency, and send you a tailored quote for your move. There is a chance our quote can be cheaper or much higher than other removalists. It’s worth considering if other quotes took the specifics and volume of the move into account and charged accordingly or used an average estimate that may result in additional expenses later on.

If you would like to schedule an in-home or a video survey with us at Palmers Relocations, please fill out the form below and one of our consultants will be in touch shortly. Remember survey has zero–obligation to you but will provide you with important information and precise quote. We are moving and storage experts for over 40 years and we are more than happy to help you make the transition as easy and stress-free as possible.

International Removal Guide 2022

Palmers Relocations — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 04:24:59 +0000

Congratulations! You are moving overseas! It is a new start in a new country. So exciting! But how does it happen? Where do you start? What are the right questions to ask?

First things first. You won’t be moving on your own. You will probably organise trusted removalists who will take care of the move and the moving requirements. Second, moving overseas is not cheap and it will require preparing for the upcoming cost, which leads to the next point – planning. Do not leave the moving process to the last moment. It is possible to organise the last moment move, sure, but there is always something you will be compromising on. Better start early.

International Removal Company

Take your time and do your research. Make sure the removalist company is accredited and is a member of moving associations like AFRA, IAM or FIDI Global Alliance. It will ensure implemented service quality and procedure standards. Having a global network and years of experience in the industry will give you the peace of mind that the company has moved clients many, many times before, has experienced various scenarios and can solve any issues in case anything occurs. Trusted removalists will ensure your household items get clearance by customs and duties and arrive at your destination safely. Read reviews, get quotes from multiple companies, call the shortlisted removalists and talk to the consultants. They will be able to provide you with the necessary information about the move and it will help you make a decision about whom to trust and choose for your move. Deciding purely based on quotes leaves a lot of information out of consideration. For example, by asking what is included in the Door-to-Door move, you may discover the offer may vary between the removalists. While the cost for one can seem higher, it can include services that the other one does not and can be a better value. Also, remember that your move manager will be your direct point of contact and will guide you through the moving process. Starting from signing the acceptance form, filling out the required documentation and insurance form, and organising your uplift and delivery. Having a professional and experienced removalist will allow you to relax and focus on the arrival and other tasks knowing that you will be taken care of.

How much the move will cost?

Moving abroad can get very expensive. Every move is unique and will have different requirements even if some variables are the same. Firstly, the cost will depend on the distance – moving to a neighbour country or across the globe will be very different – and the volume of your belongings. Comparing 2 bedroom apartment with 4 bedroom house with a garage and shed shows the amplitude of how different moves can be. Similar ta car insurance, many clients choose to insure their belongings when moving. Even if removalists have done everything perfectly, there is always a possibility that something may happen while the container is on the way to the port, on the vessel or being processed in ports. Having transit insurance assures you are being protected in case of an accident.
In addition, many removalists offer additional services like exit cleaning service, valet unpacking service and, vehicle or pet transportation to ease or improve the relocation experience. All of these services will affect the overall cost. The best suggestion is to talk to your removalists, explain your moving requirements and see what is the best solution for the move, what would be the estimated budget or offer a different solution and “make it happen”.

What can I do to reduce the cost?

Although the global pandemic has eased, the shortage of containers and vessel delays are still affecting the industry. Shipping costs have increased significantly in late 2021 and 2022. There is a high possibility that quotes from removalists are higher than expected. There are however a few steps to reduce the shipping costs to match your budget.

Downsize

When living in one location for some time, it is easy to accumulate items that are not being used anymore. Instead of taking them along, discard items that can’t be reused, donate to your local charity or give to friends or family the ones that would add value to their lives. Maybe there is something you know you won’t use anymore or will replace soon. In that case, it might be worth selling and purchasing a new one at your destination.

Declutter

We all have old magazines, paperwork, and old school notebooks that take up space but aren’t used anymore. Similar to clothes that don’t spark joy anymore. They get moved in the wardrobe but never get picked. If you haven’t used the particular item for a whole season, there is a chance, you never will and it is time to free up the space. You will be surprised how much space can get freed up by decluttering and downsizing.

It is understandable to be confused and not know what to bring along. What is essential and what is not. At the same time, remember you can purchase anything you need either locally or order online and get delivered to your doorstep.

Important Things to Organise Before Relocating Overseas

Prepare Financially
- start saving for the move
  - removals
  - rent and bond at the destination
  - plane ticket
  - insurance
- research the average cost of living in your destination country
- familiarise yourself with local currencies
- budget your expenses
Research your destination
Renew your passport
Apply for the correct visa
Organise your health insurance
Purchase a plane ticket
Get your documents in order:
- bank details
- insurance policies
- dental and medical records
- educational qualifications and notarial translations (if applicable)
- birth certificate
- make copies of important documents (just in case)
- medical prescriptions (if applicable)
- do you need special vaccination?
Decide and organise the living arrangements
Make a to-do list for the week of arriving
- accommodation,
- rental & utility bills
- move in
- setting up a local bank account, and transferring funds.
- taxation office
- familiarise yourself with public transport and plan routes to locations you will visit on daily basis.
- find a local supermarket
Prepare a priority box – in this box include items that will make your first moments after move-in easier. Priority boxes can include items like a kettle, mugs, cutlery, WC paper, set of towels, sponge and more. Contents can vary depending on each individual needs and requirements.

After you have moved, make sure you cross-check all of your boxes/items with your removalists to make sure everything has arrived safely. Once it’s done, take your time, relax, and go and explore your new neighbourhood. It’s been an overwhelming period, it’s time to be adventurous and experience more positive emotions. Enjoy the time of unpacking and settling into your new life.

We hope this article helps to start the moving process and ask the right questions. If you have any questions regards the moving process, enquire with our experienced team.

Irish Relocation Consultation Service | Irish Women Abroad

Palmers Relocations — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 04:07:59 +0000

Moving to Australia or back to Ireland doesn’t need to be scary, or overwhelming. It is supposed to be an adventurous and exciting time in a person’s life. Although sometimes it does not feel that way at all. There are too many things to take care of or prepare for. Having clarity, knowledge and support, can make the time of preparing less stressful and more exciting. And we will tell you – HOW?

Sarah Whelan Sarah is the Founder of Irish Women Abroad and she has launched a new Relocation Consultation Service for both hopeful Irish emigrants and former Irish expats seeking clarity on the next step in their life while returning home. Personalised consultation will provide you with the guidance, necessary information, moving tips, support, and advice during the relocation journey. Hours or even days spent researching and scrolling through Facebook groups and Google can be spent with family and friends or doing something more fun.

Since 2019, Sarah has supported dozens of Irish emigrants and expats in our online community and has access to a large and proven network of recommended businesses and services that will answer questions and clear any doubts.
At Palmers, we strive to deliver exceptional comfort to our Irish clients in addition to our comprehensive Door-to-Door moving service. We hope consultation with Sarah will enhance the moving experience even more. Book your Consultation here.

What to Consider Moving Overseas in 2022

Palmers Relocations — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 23:52:08 +0000

After nearly two years, Australia finally opened its borders in February 2022 for citizens, eligible visa holders, and tourists. Unsurprisingly, bookings have soared. Visiting family and friends, booking holidays, there are many reasons to travel to and from the land down under.
“If you’re double vaccinated, we look forwards to welcoming you back,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. Despite the fact there are entry requirements, many people rush to seize the opportunity to travel after the world has opened, while others have decided to take a leap of faith and move to another country to work, study or live. What to consider moving overseas in 2022?

Although these are good news and welcomed by many, global supply chain disruptions, port congestion, capacity shortages, lack of containers, increasing ocean freight rates and an ongoing pandemic have challenged shippers, ports, carriers and logistics providers to maintain pre-pandemic service levels. It includes international removalists and the services they provide. Even though there is high demand for international relocations of household goods, vehicles and pet relocations to and from Australia, rising shipping costs and ongoing delivery delays come with challenges.

The Port of Rotterdam Authority’s commercial director, Emile Hoogsteden, expects congestion to last until 2022 in Europe’s largest seaport. “This is due to the fact that the international container ship fleet and terminal capacity are not expanding at a rate commensurate with demand.” The post-pandemic situation is gradually reducing congestion in ports around the world, but there are still significant delays expected in 2022 that must not be overlooked.

If you intend to relocate across borders, it is best to begin working with a moving company as soon as possible. To avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure to arm yourself with the necessary information. And, while the global situation is constantly changing, planning ahead of time can help mitigate the potential impact on your relocation.
As the world adapts to global changes, so do Palmers Relocations movers. Collaborating closely with partners in ports and overseas, allows us to adjust and communicate with our clients about changes as they come to continue providing excellent relocation services. Our international move managers advise taking the global situation into account and allowing more time for goods to arrive at the destination country, and clear customs before being delivered to your new home.

Planning ahead of time will help to avoid unpleasant surprises and give you more time to enjoy the move and the country, whether you are returning home or moving somewhere new.

To better prepare for the upcoming move, contact our move managers:

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Should I Hire or Buy a Shipping Container?

Palmers Relocations — Mon, 24 May 2021 23:15:30 +0000

Whether you’re moving locally, interstate, or overseas, the importance of a reliable shipping container cannot be overstated. It plays a pivotal role in the transportation and storage of your belongings, making it a crucial decision in your moving process.

Understanding Shipping Containers

Shipping containers, or intermodal containers, are standardized units designed specifically for transporting goods. Versatile across various shipping modes—truck, rail, air, and cargo—they are renowned for their quality, security, and ease of transport. Palmers Relocations handle well over 10,000 shipping containers annually and there are about 20 million shipping containers around the world. It attests to their widespread use in various industries.

Advantages of Shipping Containers

Whether you choose to rent or buy, shipping containers offer common advantages:

Durability: Crafted from corten steel, shipping containers are built to last for decades, ensuring the safety of your belongings during transit.
Standardization: Operating under ISO standards, shipping containers maintain consistent specifications globally, encompassing size, weight, and quality.
Convenient Transport: The ISO standardization facilitates seamless handling by various parties involved – from moving companies to cargo companies – and will be able to handle it all around the world.
Safety and Security: Made to be resistant and durable, shipping containers ensure the protection of your goods. They are secure, with contents known only to you and sealed at the origin until opened by you or customs at the final destination.

Source: CONTAINER ARCHITECTURE IN THE HOT-HUMID TROPICS: POTENTIAL AND CONSTRAINTS – Scientific Figure on ResearchGate. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Typical-Shipping-Container-Exploded-View-Source-18_fig1_278021414

Reasons to Buy a Shipping Container

Investing in a shipping container provides several advantages:

Cost Variability: Container prices vary, with second-hand 20ft units ranging between $2,500 and $3,500, and new ones priced around $5,000. A second-hand 40ft container costs $3,500 to $4,500, while a new one is approximately $6,500.
Long-Term Use: Buying is ideal for repeated usage, such as storage at your final destination. It’s a valuable long-term storage solution, and you can even resell it when no longer needed, experiencing minimal devaluation.

Choosing the Best Option for You

The decision between renting and buying depends on cost and usage. Buying your shipping container is an investment and it comes with excellent advantages. Let’s look at in more detail some reasons you should buy a shipping container.

Renting: Generally more cost-effective for moves within Australia, especially when provided by your removal company. Suitable for one-time use or shorter durations.
Buying: Ideal for international relocations that also require long-term storage. While it requires an initial investment, the potential resale value and flexibility make it a wise choice, especially when planning to use it multiple times. Just like vehicles, there is a market for second-hand shipping containers. However, unlike vehicles, there is very little devaluation….. In other words, you can sell your container at an acceptable price even if you own it for months or years.

Which Option Is The Best For You?

It all comes down to cost ultimately and use. Will you use a shipping container once or multiple times? As a general rule, it is best to just use/rent a shipping container if you are moving within Australia. This varies if you are going to rural property of course, but generally, it is best to use the hire container provided by your removal company.

Expert Guidance from Palmers Relocations

At Palmers Relocations, our experienced team can assist you in making the best decision for your specific needs. Whether buying or renting, contact us today to get answers to all your questions and ensure a smooth transition for your next move.

Moving House During COVID-19 (Q&A)

Palmers Relocations — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 02:49:43 +0000

In this global pandemic, no one can truly say they have not been affected in at least some small way. Many optimists had hoped 2021 would see an end to covid-19 and whilst the vaccination is being rolled out, but it is a slow process.

We are seeing significant progress in the fight against the Coronavirus with vaccines rolling out in many countries. Still, COVID 19 is not yet behind us. We must still follow strict rules such as social distancing, quarantine as well as good hygiene in order to reduce the spread of the virus.

Despite the situation, people are relocating from their homes for an extensive number of reasons including moving back to their home countries to be closer to family, moving for work purposes or simply looking for a new lifestyle in light of the pandemic. We know moving house can be stressful and that was before adding in the extra stresses surrounding COVID 19.

We also understand that many people have questions about their move, the process and what is involved in these particular times. Some of you may just want to know if moving house is still possible or not. So, we have answered some of the main questions we have on moving house during covid 19 (Q&A).

Are Moving Companies Impacted by Coronavirus Restrictions?

Moving Company in Australia during COVID-19

There are currently no restrictions on removal companies in Australia.

In other words, moving companies like Palmers Relocations can operate as normal.

The government has separated business into 2 categories; non-essential and essential service. At this time, removalists are listed as essential service (falling under the category transport and logistics). It means that we still can move your goods wherever you need including local, interstate or overseas moves.

Through utilising the rail network and sending shipments interstate in shipping containers, we avoid any unwanted issues with border closures as well.

At Palmers Relocations our offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are open for business and to assist with every step of your move. You can rest assured that we are operating under strict hygiene guidelines and are registered as “COVID safe”. More questions? Feel free to discuss with our team.

Can I Still Move House During the Pandemic?

Most of the time, yes, but a few nos apply.

This cannot be taken for granted as state and federal governments restrictions vary considerably. Indeed, it depends on how the virus spreads in Australia and overseas as well as if there is an outbreak and (new) restrictions in place.

That being said, at the time we write this article, you can move in most cases. We so, however, advise you to prepare your move a little bit more in advance than usual.

Indeed, you and your family will probably be required to apply for a permit, or in some circumstances, you will need to self-quarantine after your move especially if relocating interstate.

Moves overseas as residents or Australian citizens are rather different. You will need an exemption to leave the country. For more detailed info, visit the Home Affairs website as well as the government or health website of the country you are moving to.

Still, even during COVID 19 moving house either locally, interstate and internationally is possible. For more information, our team is always here to assist with any questions you may have.

Can I Still Move Locally During Coronavirus?

Yes, you can move home locally.

Moves in the same state or city are allowed. While at this point when moving house locally there are no specific restrictions, common sense and state guidelines apply such as social distancing, good hygiene and you might need to wear a mask depending on the state you live in.

Can I Move Interstate in Australia During COVID-19?

It depends on the state stage and border restrictions in place at the time of your house move.

Currently, most of the Australian states require a permit and/or a border pass to enter their territory. In other words, you will need to apply for a permit online, on the states’ website before entering a new state.

In addition, most of the states such as VIC, QLD, WA, South Australia and Northern Territory might require 14 days self-isolation/quarantine.

If you are unsure about the current coronavirus restrictions, seek the latest news or on the states’ website using the links below:

NSW Covid updates: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19
VIC Covid updates: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
QLD Covid updates and border closing: https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/government-actions/border-closing
SA Covid travel restrictions: https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/restrictions-and-responsibilities/travel-restrictions
WA Covid Updates, travel and quarantine: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-the-premier-and-cabinet/covid-19-coronavirus-travel-and-quarantine
NT Interstate Arrivals and Quarantine: https://coronavirus.nt.gov.au/travel/quarantine
TAS Covid updates: https://coronavirus.tas.gov.au/travellers-and-visitors/coming-to-tasmania

Can I Move Internationally During COVID 19?

International Relocation during COVID-19

Yes, but you need an exemption first.

For moving house overseas, you will need an exemption from the Australian government. Since covid 19 pandemics started, Australia has banned overseas travel. This does not mean you can’t leave the country but it involves extra preparation for people who want to move their house.

If you are an Australian Citizen or a permanent resident, you need to refer to the checklist provided here. For instance, you can leave the country for work and permanent relocation to another country. Our team can help you with paperwork and provide evidence that you are moving overseas.

If you are temporary visa holders such as WHV, Sponsor Visa (457) etc… Those requirements do not apply to you. You are automatically granted an authorization to leave Australia (without exemptions). However, we strongly advise you to check the travel information and advice as well as border controls in your home country or the country you are moving to. Most, if not all of the countries around the globe have some kind of restrictions for people travelling such as total ban, quarantine etc…in order to reduce the spread of covid 19.

Check the government website for more details.

Can I Move From Overseas back into Australia During Covid 19?

Moving from Overseas to Australia

Yes, but only if you are you and your family members are Australian citizens, residents or exemption category.

The same as with leaving Australia, there is a ban if you want to return home or migrate to the country. As removalists, we can import your goods anywhere in Australia, however, you will need to follow strict requirements for entering Australia, such as a mandatory quarantine and negative covid 19 test before flying.

Do I Need to Self Isolate When Moving House?

Local Moves: no – Interstate Moves: Potentially

Moving house locally: there are no quarantines in place for local moves.
Moving house interstate: currently, some restrictions with self-isolation are in place in QLD, VIC, SA and WA. There is no need to worry about your goods, however. As an essential service, we do not need to self isolate, which means that we can work on moving your home and personal effects as usual. For any questions regarding what you can or can’t do at the time your move is planned, you always can get in touch with our consultants. They will be able to provide you with the latest updates and rules.
Moving house overseas: if you are moving internationally, it’s important to read the international section above. Almost every country, if not all, have quarantines requirements upon entry on their territory. Sometimes, they have bans on who can enter such as Australia and most of the European countries for example. As a moving company, we are still able to collect your house goods and to ship your items worldwide.

Is it Safe to Move With a Relocation Company?

When moving with a removal company such as Palmers Relocations, we put your health and safety first.

When quoting, we can provide a virtual in house inspection with one of our consultants as an alternative to a face to face meeting if you are more comfortable with this.

As a registered Covid-Safe business, we also comply strictly with all regulation in place by Government Health Authorities. Our team practices social distancing on every move as well as extra hygiene steps such as hand sanitiser and facemasks where applicable.

In addition to this, we also ask our customers to play their part. This includes opening all doors both internally and externally before our arrival, opening windows prior to our arrival, turning on all lights in advance and ensuring we never have more than 2 x people in a room where possible.

All these steps help us make your move as safe as possible. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact our team for more information.

Disclaimer: Information in the blog post is not guaranteed as details about coronavirus change regularly without notice. You must follow the Australian government advice and/or the rules of the country you are moving to.

Interview: Living Abroad During a Pandemic Period

Palmers Relocations — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 04:13:28 +0000

Sarah Whelan, from Dublin, lives in Sydney, in Australia, where she is a Social Worker, Mentor and Founder of Irish Women Abroad.
Sarah has kindly agreed to share with us about her reaction when she first heard about the pandemic -COVID19, as well as touching on the impact it has had on her life and family and shares her advice for Irish expats around the world.

Can You Tell Us a Little About Yourself?

I’m a Sydney-based Dubliner and have been living in Australia for 13 years with my Irish husband (who I actually met in Sydney 6 years ago). I originally travelled to Australia on a working holiday and I couldn’t see myself living in Sydney for the long term. However, on my return to Ireland, I missed Sydney so much that I made the decision that I would return to live here for the foreseeable future. I didn’t realise it at the time, but I had fallen completely in love with this beautiful country.

In 2016, my daughter was born in Sydney away from my family and friends, and like many other Irish expats, it prompted me to plan the move to Ireland. The decision to return to Ireland was extremely difficult.

I thought about moving back home many times over the years, but it was only after having my own family abroad that the pull became so great. We loved living in Dublin again, spending time with family and friends but it didn’t feel quite right. After a lot of soul searching we returned to Sydney at the end of 2017 and have been living happily in Sydney since.

Since that time I founded IWA in 2019 as living abroad can at times be so isolating and difficult and I felt inspired to bring Irish women together in a supportive and encouraging environment and to empower Irish women to believe in themselves and to form positive connections.

How Did You React When You Heard First About the Pandemic?

When I heard first about the pandemic I was actually really sick with a horrible cough and feared that I may have COVID myself. Luckily, it was confirmed that it wasn’t the case, but as a result, I abruptly started working from home with no preparation. The situation hasn’t changed since then and it’s likely to continue for the next few months.

It was a very unsettling, confronting and lonely time, to begin with, and I remember hoping that it was all a bad dream and I would wake up and it would be over. I barely left the house for the first three weeks, unless it was to get exercise around the block.

My four-year-old daughter also stayed at home until she too recovered from her cough, but then needed to return to child care. I never realised how impractical apartment living is with children until COVID-19 struck!

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A post shared by Irish Women Abroad (@irishwomenabroad) on Apr 11, 2020 at 4:02pm PDT

One thing that really stood out for me at the time, was how incredibly grateful I felt to live in Australia, but at the same time, I had pangs of homesickness I have never experienced before. There’s something about being told you can’t travel overseas that makes you want to even more!

What Impact Has Coronavirus Had on Your Life?

It happened so suddenly and life became dramatically different almost overnight. All of the plans I had made for 2020, including many events for Irish women were postponed instantly. I remember feeling uncertain about things I had, like others, take for granted.

From feelings of fear, anxiety, confusion and shock, to the adjustment of a new routine.

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A post shared by Irish Women Abroad (@irishwomenabroad) on Mar 16, 2020 at 2:59am PDT

The separation from people I care about really made me think deeply about our decision to live abroad. I was missing events and get-togethers. Brunches, dinners and coffee dates. The human connection. Video calls such as on the Zoom app are great but nothing beats face to face contact.

I noticed a few times that guilt would creep in, guilt for enjoying myself whilst seeing all of the horror images of what was happening in Ireland and the rest of the world on social media. The impact of the calls home and the dreaded thoughts of worst-case scenarios should a loved one pass away from the deadly virus played on my mind. Or worse still, worrying about what would happen if anything happened to myself or my husband and who would take care of my little girl.

Thoughts that I hadn’t really given much energy to previously. It was hard to watch on the sidelines as others struggled and businesses closed their doors and many friends have lost their jobs. I didn’t know what to say or to do to help.

I can vividly remember the heartbreak of telling my daughter that everything she enjoyed in life was closed, Irish dancing and gymnastic classes put on hold and that she wasn’t going to be able to play with her friends and neighbours. Having no timeline to speak of, was even harder.

What Positives (if any) Came About From COVID 19?

Community

I have learned how resilient Irish expats are but also the power of community. The Irish Organisations spread out across Australia and around the world have supported the most vulnerable Irish people and have started fantastic initiatives to raise money, such as online concerts and webinars to raise awareness for Mental Health. IWA’s virtual events which were named “Cuppa Chats” were so successful at bringing Irish women together all over the world at a time when we really needed it.

Gratitude

I am so grateful for all I have in my life, the Irish community and the support has been just amazing. The simpler ways of life during the pandemic has brought awareness to the things that really light me up and the most meaningful relationships.

The power of the Online world

In such a short amount of time, Irish expats around the world have really embraced the online world, myself included. I have taken up courses, joined mentoring groups and attended many wonderful virtual events. I have even booked my first ever virtual retreat in the coming weeks which I am really looking forward to. I even organised virtual playdates for my daughter with all of her favourite characters from Frozen characters to Barbie with an events company in Sydney.

Home cooking and baking

I have never baked and cooked hearty “Irish meals” as much as I have in the last 3 months. Baking bread seems to offer stress relief but also many of us are learning new skills. I’ve even heard that baking bread is at the core of our culture and that this is an instinctive return to the roots of civilization!

What Can People do to Look After Themselves During These Difficult Times?

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A post shared by Irish Women Abroad (@irishwomenabroad) on Apr 18, 2020 at 1:11am PDT

Connection and community

A kind and encouraging word can go a long way in supporting someone who is finding life challenging. Reach out to people and let them know you care whether it’s a call, don’t underestimate the power you have to offer hope to another person. There’s a good chance they are also feeling isolated.

Speak out

Don’t wait for people to connect with you, reach out to them if you are struggling. Ask your friends how they are feeling and share your own experiences too.

Self-care

Do what makes you feel good and give yourself permission to do what is good for your soul. Crying helps release built-up emotions and it is normal to cry with so much change at once. Secret cries in the bath or in the car have really helped me get through.

Stay off social media

Limit time spent on social media if you can as it can really affect your mental health when all you are seeing is the negative things happening in the world.

Surround yourself in positivity

Read a motivational book, listen to an uplifting podcast or watch an inspiring documentary on Netflix. There are some pretty good Irish ones on there if you want a taste of home.

Give yourself a break

If you are working from home (especially if you have kids at home) accept that you are doing your best and that is all you can ask of yourself. Get through the day as best as you can.

Exercise

When you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed the best thing to do is to stay active (but often the hardest). As much as you might feel like hiding from all the chaos right now, the simple act of getting outside and going for a walk can do wonders.

Sit with yourself

It can be tempting to distract yourself when the world is in turmoil but use the time to go within e.g enjoy a mediation, an Epsom salt bath or a warm and soothing drink and reflect. The more calm and centred you feel the more you can support others going through a tough time.

Any Final Thoughts?

Life post-COVID-19 is going to involve a certain amount of adjustment for all of us. Only time will tell what the new normal will look like. We are all grieving. Grieving for what we had, what we have lost and the uncertainty facing us in the future.

I hope we forge ahead with a renewed sense of perspective and gratitude and that we don’t take things for granted like we used to. Trips to Ireland are no longer as simple as they once were, but I am hopeful that the new normal will bring people closer together and maybe even encourage Irish expats to return to Ireland to be closer to family if that is the direction they have been longing to take.

It’s hard being away from home but I’ve never felt prouder to be Irish. In the words of Oscar Wilde, “what seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise”.

About Sarah

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A post shared by Sarah Whelan (@sarahwhelancoach) on Mar 13, 2020 at 10:07pm PDT

Sarah is a Mentor for Irish expats and Founder of Irish Women Abroad, which is a community of Irish women supporting each other whilst living away from home. It is a safe space for Irish women to network and connect with each other and share our lived experiences. We do this through our online community and by organising face to face events throughout the year. What’s unique about Irish Women Abroad is that we are an inclusive community – we are from all different age groups and all walks of life.

If you like the sound of what we do at Irish Women Abroad then you can join the Facebook group Irish Women Living Abroad or Returning to Ireland or Follow @Irishwomenabroad on Instagram.