Shipping some of my father's effects from US to Uk

[rivercobbler]

My dad's wife is dealing with my dad's estate in the US and is going to ship some things of his over to us here in the UK. She is not mostly computer illiterate - is just about managing to send us emails occasionally. She's in poor health and he was a nightmare so we are trying to help with researching shipping companies.

It isn't a lot, but it there might some. fragile stuff: a few pieces of artwork (possibly in frames but the glass could be removed?), possibly some ornaments and china. I'd say it will probably be something like a 333ft box max.

We aren't looking for a bargain, more for good customer service and good handling of fragile items. They'd have to collect from her place. Ideally they would pack the items as well but I don't know if that is realistic.

Does anyone have any experience they could share of companies to use or avoid? Should we just go with FedEx or similar?

I think all your big companies FedEx, DHL, UPS are likely to be the same. How carefully they handle your items really depends on the people you get rather than the company. I would make sure it is carefully packed though. I don't know if any of those will pack the items for you.

When I shipped items from the US, I just used the Postal Service. I think it was more expensive, but it was the most convenient at the time. Everything arrived in good condition. Or I've used a container shipping service (half a container). If it's a lot of stuff, you can send it on a portion of a container, it doesn't have to be the full container. But it doesn't sound like you have enough for a container.

Do be mindful of how you complete the customs forms when shipping though or else you are at risk of having to pay a lot in import duty.

Thank you so much, I appreciate your insights.

My sons is moving here to the UK from the USA and has just shipped 2 boxes via the mail services. Each box was about 45 pounds in weight and cost him about $200 for each one. We then had to pay customs duty when the box arrived here of £49 one box arrived safely but one got held up,in customs in the USA but is now in this country waiting for delivery

Thank you, that's all helpful information.