Talk to others who have moved and ask several reputable local companies with experience in overseas moving for quotations. If you are on a budget, offer to pack the non-breakables yourself. Breakables should be packed by the movers, otherwise the insurance might not cover it. Even a local company can usually arrange the extra services that are part of the package provided by an international moving specialist, such as customs clearance of a car, special cleaning needs or assistance with shutting off the utilities. Just be sure to ask for a price breakdown in your quotation.
Most companies offer moving insurance at a small additional cost.
Although it might seem unnecessary, for most overseas and international moves it's a good investment. Many people handle goods during the shipping process and most are outside the jurisdiction of the moving company itself. As the freight is transported to port, cleared by customs, and loaded onto the ship, it is inevitable that it will be jolted and jarred. One woman shipped eight gorgeous antique china collections from England to Monaco. Everything arrived without a scratch.