Every day, in the world of moving, we meet people from all walks of life — different cultures, different temperaments, different expectations. Some customers are a dream. Others… well, let’s just say, they leave a lasting impression for all the wrong reasons.

Whether you’re moving locally or across continents, how you approach the process — and how you treat your movers — has a huge impact on how things unfold.

In this article, we shine a light on the many types of customers we deal with in the moving industry: the organized, the overwhelmed, the entitled, the vanishing acts — even the lovable ones. The aim isn’t to call anyone out (okay, maybe just a little), but to offer some insight, laughs, and self-awareness. Because the truth is: if you recognize yourself in one of these, you’re not alone — and that’s the first step toward a better moving experience for everyone.

It all starts with the first contact

Before we lift a single box or tape a single carton, we speak to customers by email, phone, or through a website inquiry. And trust us — you can tell a lot from that very first interaction. How a customer behaves in the early stages often sets the tone for the entire relationship.

Here’s what we typically see:

• The Prepared Planner sends a clear, detailed list and asks thoughtful questions. They’re polite, realistic, and responsive. They make quoting easy — and usually get priority attention because we know they’re serious.
• The Scrambler calls in a panic: “I need to move tomorrow. Can you help?!” Their inventory list is “just a few things,” which turns out to be a full three-bedroom house. They mean well, but the chaos begins before the truck even rolls out.
• The Control Freak often sends an intense email with ten bullet points and five follow-ups within the hour. They want to know exactly how each item will be packed, in what order, by whom, and at what time. Helpful? Sometimes. Overwhelming? Usually.
• The Ghost fills out the online form… then vanishes into thin air. No email replies, no returned calls. Then two weeks later: “Hey, can you still move me tomorrow?”
• The Bargain Hunter jumps straight to price. “What’s your cheapest rate?” No name, no details, no hello. They send competitor quotes like they’re playing poker. They’ll even request for extra services saying things like “Will you throw in a free piano move? What they forget? You get what you pay for — and we’d rather win customers with quality, not a race to the bottom.
• The Withholder gives as little info as possible. “It’s just some boxes,” they say, while dodging any questions about volume, access, or what “some” really means. We’re left guessing, and guessing is not a great way to run a move.
• The VIP may open with “I’m very busy, so I expect this to be handled efficiently.” They name-drop, rush the conversation, and sometimes act like we’re lucky to have their business. Not the best way to start a working relationship.
• The Cultural Ambassador is often kind and curious, but sometimes unsure about how things work. Language barriers or unfamiliar customs can create confusion — unless both sides make the effort to understand each other early on.
• The Grateful Giver is friendly, human, and respectful. “Thanks for your time!” and “I know this is a big job — just want to make sure I’m doing it right.” That attitude alone makes everything easier — and earns them five stars in our eyes before we’ve even met. You remind us why we provide moving services.
• The Bully shows signs early: rude emails, snappy tone, aggressive demands. We’ve learned to spot the red flags — and sometimes, for everyone’s sake, we just politely decline.
• The Repeat Client checks in like an old friend. “Hi, it’s us again! Can we book you for our next move?” They’re confident, clear, and respectful — because they’ve been through it before and trust the process. They usually need less convincing and more confirming. Honestly, hearing from them makes our day.
• The Royal usually says very little, assuming everything will “just be taken care of.” They don’t read the service details and assume movers will pack, disassemble, reassemble, organize, and maybe even hang their art — without saying a word.

 So here’s the takeaway: The move starts the moment you reach out. Your tone, clarity, and attitude in that first conversation will shape how the process unfolds — and how much your movers are able (and willing) to help you.

Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s meet the cast…

1. The Prepared Planner

2. The Last-Minute Scrambler
   (Who agreed to Pack on their Own)

3. The Control Freak

4. The Ghost

5. The Bargain Hunter

6. The Withholder

7. The “VIP”

8. The Cultural Ambassador

9. The Grateful Giver

10. The Bully

11. The Repeat Client

12. The Royal

So… What Type of Customer Are You?

Did you recognize yourself? Maybe in more than one? That’s okay — the goal here isn’t guilt. It’s awareness.

A successful move starts with a conversation — and continues with communication, preparation, and mutual respect. Whether you’re a planner, a procrastinator, or somewhere in between, there’s always room to be better.

And here’s the good news: we’re doing our part to help you avoid those negative outcomes — the delays, the surprises, the stress. Every quote we send is detailed, transparent, and tailored to your specific move. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t leave you guessing.

All we ask? Take 10 minutes to read the quote. Just 10. It’s the most valuable time you’ll spend in the entire process. We’ll also follow up — not to push, but to walk you through it, answer your questions, and make sure everything is clear. That conversation might be the difference between a stressful move and a seamless one.

We’re here to make this easy, but we can’t do it alone. If you bring your honesty, your clarity, and your time — we’ll bring the experience, the muscle, and the plan.

Let’s Make Your Next Move a Good One

 Planning a move? Think about what kind of customer you want to be.
 Already moved? Be honest — how was your first contact?
 Want a smooth, stress-free experience? Start by being the kind of customer you’d want to work with.

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Let’s help more people move smarter — and maybe laugh a little along the way.

The Euromovers Conference is an annual event that brings together leading professionals from the moving industry to discuss emerging trends, share insights, and foster collaboration. Here’s our experience from our participation at the Euromovers Conference held in Catania in May 2022.

Kae International Movers: A Global Presence

Kae International Movers made its mark at the Euromovers Conference. The company’s international staff ( from the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Greece), was fully represented at this prestigious event. It was not the first time we joined this prestigious event, in fact, Kae hasn’t missed any Eurmovers conference over many years.

KAE International Team, from left to right: Marilia Kanellopoulou, Michael Kae,Ondrej Vincenec, Michael Vicenec, Celeste Tat

Exploring the Latest Trends

The Euromovers Conference provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss the latest trends shaping the moving landscape. Kae International Movers actively participated in these discussions and gained valuable insights into emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and customer-centric solutions.

Key Presentations and Insights

Throughout the conference, several thought-provoking presentations captivated attendees.

Notable sessions included:

1. **European Consolidation**: Tobia Crisostomo from EUROVAN shed light on European consolidation strategies.
2. **Lead Generation**: Giorgio Genta from TriGlobal discussed effective lead generation techniques.
3. **Search Engine Optimization**: Francesco Argiró delivered a seminar on optimizing search engine visibility for moving companies.
4. **Financial Services**: Geraldine Collett from Halo Financial emphasized the importance of recommending financial services to customers.
5. **Future Developments**: Gerard Geijtenbeek from Roldo Rent shared insights into future developments that might affect the moving industry.
6. **Moving Trade Associations**: Ian Studd, Director General of BAR, provided an overview of the world’s oldest moving trade association.
7. **Sustainability**: Magali Horbert from FIDI highlighted sustainability practices within the moving industry.

Certificate of Recognition

During the conference, Michael, Director of Operations at Kae International Movers, was awarded a Certificate of Recognition for outstanding services and partnerships.

## About Euromovers

Euromovers is a leading international network of moving companies that share common standards, visions, and guidelines. The organization comprises a group of renowned names in the moving industry with its head office in Germany. Euromovers provides a platform for members to collaborate and share insights on emerging trends and best practices. The organization also holds an annual conference that brings together movers and shakers from around the world to explore new horizons and forge meaningful connections.

Looking Ahead: Euromovers Conference 2023

The Euromovers Conference concluded on a high note with an announcement about the next edition. The upcoming conference is scheduled to take place in Ibiza in May 2024. This highly anticipated event promises to bring together movers and shakers from around the world to explore new horizons and forge meaningful connections.

Kae International Movers’ participation at the Euromovers Conference was a testament to their commitment to excellence and innovation within the moving industry. By actively engaging with industry peers and staying abreast of emerging trends, Kae International Movers is well-positioned to shape the future of moving.

IAM Conference 2023: Toronto Calling!

In October, KAE International Movers will be participating in the IAM (International Association of Movers) conference in Toronto, Canada. This prestigious event will provide an opportunity for industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the moving industry. The IAM represents more than 2,000 companies in over 170 countries.

Stay tuned for updates as we delve deeper into the movers’ world at IAM and uncover exciting developments that are revolutionizing how we move!

What is considered Fine Art?

Fine Arts are considered Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture. The difference between art and fine art is that fine art cannot be used for commercial or practical purposes. This is the reason they are extra valuable and irreplaceable. And that is why only a specialized moving company should be commissioned to perform the moving and transport of fine arts.

When you are moving to another country, the definition of Fine Arts for customs and taxes depends on the relocation destination. In the case of Fine Art, there is a distinction between an original work of art and a collector’s object. Antiques, on the other hand, are objects older than 100 years old, which are not original works of art or object of collection.

Why an expert company for moving Fine Arts?

Sculptures and paintings are often heavy, delicate, and in non-typical shapes. Being a unique artwork, even small damage during a move could potentially ruin its value. That is why each item needs to be addressed individually in its own unique way and with a customized moving process. Besides a customized approach to every piece of art, an expert mover will work according to international methods to help you protect the value of your collection.

Fine Arts Shipping 3 Tips

1. Document the condition of your artwork before moving
2. Purchase moving insurance to specifically cover your fine art pieces in case of damage or loss during the move
3. Hire a specialized moving company

KAE International Movers: How we move fine arts

In our company, we have been working with paintings, sculptures, antiques, and museum artifacts for many years. In fact, we have 20 years of experience in moving works of art. Many museums, artists, and private art collectors have entrusted us with their artworks and prestigious collections.

These collaborations have helped us to specialize our company in moving artworks and high-value items. We also continuously invest in our team with training and specialization courses, enabling them to work according to the highest international standard.

Moving Paintings

Paintings can be wrapped or crated. A wooden crate is the safest method of transportation. Measurements are carefully taken, and special materials are taken into

consideration and are assessed uniquely for each item. The crate is then built around

the painting and is assembled on-site. The crate protects against damage, humidity, and any other potentially damaging situations. Adjustable transportation frames are also used for paintings. Paintings may need to be transported in a climate-controlled environment to protect the pigments.

Moving Sculptures

Moving a large, outdoor sculpture is very different from moving a small or large painting, yet each may be worth thousands of dollars. Generally, we strongly recommend that crating is the only right option for sculptures because they best protect them against damage.

Museum-quality crates are custom-built and are padded with special protective material, cushioning, or built-in frameworks.

An appropriate truck and lifting belts may also be needed to safely move your sculpture. In some cases, if your sculpture is too large and heavy, a crane or other professional equipment is used.

KAE International Movers: Art Moving, Art Shipping, and Art Storage

At Kae International Movers, we guarantee that your family’s fine art and antiques are all packed according to international standards and packing methods by using the industry’s top-quality packing materials. Our moving teams are specially trained for fine art and antique moving projects. They have years of experience and understand the care needs of these items.

KAE International: Fine Art movers

Whether you are planning to move within your city or overseas, we offer efficient and specialized moving services to transport your valuable antiques, piano, or objects of fine arts. We have a global network behind us, and the most secure transport and warehousing services.

Contact us today at + 30 210 9370811 or email us at contact@kaeintlmovers.com for a free moving consultation. We look forward to discussing your upcoming transportation and/ or storage needs with you. You can also leave a request for a free quote on our quick and easy website form.

In this article, we’ll share our expertise on how to safely move a piano.

How to safely move a piano

For many people, their piano is more than just a musical instrument. The piano is part of their life and gives them joy, a way to express themselves or to forget the troubles of the day. A piano is also an elegant and classy part of the house. The piano can be a way to educate your kids or provide some great live entertainment. Pianos raise the status of just about any room they sit in. The shiny, black silhouette of a concert grand piano is about as iconic as it gets. A piano is the heart of the home and an expensive item, especially the grand piano.

When you are planning to move to a new home, it is important that you find an expert moving company that knows how to pack and transport your piano. At KAE, we have years of experience in  moving pianos. We pride ourselves in many successful international and overseas grand piano moves.

Have a look at our video of a grand piano move, and let’s summarize the most important factors involved in moving your piano.  

Piano Moving Cost Factors

• Distance and destination:
• Method of transportation:
• Circumstances at the delivery address: Stairs, for instance, present one of the greatest challenges in moving a piano between homes. Other special challenges are sharp turns, narrow hallways, and doorways. That is why there can be an extra charge for these obstacles.
• If your piano is moved to or from the upper story of a building and can’t be transported manually, a crane service might be needed to bring the piano into or out of the building.

Grand Piano versus Upright Piano

The expertise needed for safely moving your piano also depends on the type of piano. Grand pianos are the largest type and require a different packing method than the upright piano. To move the grand piano, we take it apart. We lower and secure the top of the piano’s lid, and we disassemble the piano pedals and legs. All these are carefully wrapped. Next is the piano’s lid, keys, and sides. Everything will be labeled and secured with packing tape.

As you can see, a piano can be moved, tilted, or rotated without doing damage. Damage to a piano only occurs when it is dropped or bumped, or when foreign objects are inside the piano when moving.

The upright piano, on the other hand, is a little less complicated. Upright pianos vary in terms of size, but they all have wooden soundboards that are mounted vertically, with strings that stretch downward and are struck (and muted) by horizontal hammers and dampers. Uprights, therefore, take up much less space, and we do not need to take the lid off. An average upright piano typically weighs between 226 and 362 kilos. It usually takes at least four people to move an upright piano.

Insurance

https://kaeintlmovers.com/moving-insurance/

Storage

If you are not moving into your new home directly, your piano may have to be stored in a climate-controlled facility. A professional moving company has its own warehouse where your piano can be stored safely.

https://kaeintlmovers.com/storage-services/

Tuning the piano after moving

Does the piano need tuning after moving? Yes, a piano should be tuned with each change of location, unless the move is within the same building. In most cases, a move from one room to another part of the home won’t cause problems unless the new room has a different climate.

Why use a professional piano mover?

If you are looking to safely move a piano, you need to contact an expert company. You may be trying to keep your move as cheap as possible but damaging your expensive piano in the process won’t help. Pianos are very heavy and expensive. They are not easy to move, and if you try moving your piano yourself, you are putting both the piano and yourself in danger.

Not only does a professional piano mover provide a team of people, but they also know exactly how to move the piano as a team together without damage or wasting time. Further, when you hire an experienced piano mover, they will provide professional techniques to ensure the piano and the workers remain safe. The moving company will also send the right truck and pack the piano for safe road or sea transport.

Eventually, the professional piano mover will save you money. Because if you damage the piano legs, pins, or strings, you will have to have it repaired and that will be costing you more than hiring a professional moving company.

Kae International Piano Moving Experts

We are professional piano movers with years of experience in domestic and international moving projects. We love to handle any piano moving project and will do this with much dedication. If you have any further questions about moving your piano or other precious items such as antiques or art, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to answer any questions that you may have. For a free quote, please head over to our website form: https://forms.kaeintlmovers.com/web-form

International Movers from the UAE to Greece and vice versa

Are you thinking about moving from the UAE to Greece or maybe from Greece to Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Whether you are moving from any of the UAE to Greece or the other way around, we have got your needs covered. In this post we discuss several important topics to take into consideration when moving from the UAE to Greece and vice versa!

Interview with our local expert Abhilash Nair in Dubai

For professional expert advice, we spoke with our local partner Abhilash Nair based in Dubai, about international movers to the UAE. Abhilash covers the relocation needs for the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and India. We talked about moving from Dubai to Greece and moving from Abu Dhabi to Greece.

Q: Abhilash, what is in your opinion the most important thing to take into consideration when moving to the UAE?

‘UAE is one of the most attractive places in the world today to work and live with family and one of the happiest and safest country as documented in many places. As in any other country, I would advise anyone to do their research before coming here. These are my tips:

• You must try to and secure a job before moving or landing into the country or planning to move to the UAE.
• You should bargain on a good salary and related benefits as it varies drastically from company to company / institutions you pick up to work or join.
• I believe that accommodation is very important. You should stay in the city and be prepared to pay more, or you can decide to find something much cheaper if you plan to drive 25-30 minutes.
• Make sure getting your tenancy contract in place correctly – it’s quite easy to rent a place in UAE.
• Try to gather information on the local culture and the acceptable behavior while living in the country.
• Avoid spending on too much luxury as there is sufficient flashy things around to deviate your savings and spend.
• You should move around to check the access points of different needs related to individual or family.’

Q: What is in your opinion the most important thing to take into consideration for people who are moving from the UAE to Greece or Czech?

‘The cost of living and knowledge of local culture is key!’

Q: Can you tell us a bit more about the costs involved moving to the UAE?

There are 4 main cost factors:

1. Renting a place
2. Food
3. Medical insurance – mostly companies do cover this and if not all, then often a major cost
4. Schooling – if not covered by your company, then it is a key & major cost to consider!

Q: What is the housing marketing like in the UAE? Is it difficult to find a home?

‘The UAE offer one of the best options in terms of accommodation, its easy and simple to sign up a property for rental. To give you an example; studios of 1 BHK to 6 or 8 BHK flats to houses are available. The minimum need is to have a UAE residence on your passport and the EID (Emirates ID card). All variable cost options are available depending on the location you choose to live.’

Q: Do people use Long Term or Temporary Storage Solutions?

‘Yes. People do use long and short terms storage solution as at time they change the contracts or jobs or location, even self-storage also a popular option for many who at time downsize their living house or keep changing the interior etc.’

Q: Any other tips to make moving to the UAE or from the UAE a relaxing experience?

‘Other than securing your cost of living, the medical and/or schooling, almost everything here is the best in the world and very affordable. Starting from food to staycation, entertainment, and luxury, it’s at its best possible way.’

Q: Would you like to add anything for people who are moving from or to the UAE (or specifically to Dubai or Abu Dhabi?)

There many reasons to move into UAE. Here is my list!

• Opportunities are vast for business and jobs
• Manor earnings are tax-free in the UAE
• Balance between city and costal living
• Well planned city in the world
• Dubai is an international transport hub
• Safety & culture grows and thrives here
• Properties to live in are beautiful at reliable cost
• You can ice-ski in the desert
• Shopping malls are amongst the best in the world
• A strong and stable economy really does rule
• Educational standards are high
• There’s no language barrier
• Indexes for Quality of Living rate Dubai and UAE highly
• UAE is very family friendly
• Excellent support for Expats
• The new 10-Year Visa and 100% foreign ownership
• The UAE rulers wants everybody to be happy

Thank you very much, Abhilash for taking the time to share your experiences with us!

Useful Information

Legal requirements for the UAE

Documents Required

• Copy of passport
• Copy of residence permit / residency visa on passport
• Employment visa with entry stamp of the UAE if residence visa not ready / Emirates ID copy / Emirates ID application form / Visa applicable form etc.
• Bill of lading (express release) / air waybill (AWB)
• Detailed packing list in English
• Letter from Ministry of Foreign Affairs for exemption from the payment of Customs duties (diplomats)
• Copy of diplomatic card (diplomats)
• Letter of authorization / undertaking

Specific Information

• All documents must be in place prior to shipment arrival on port
• Without a residence visa or passport, shipments will not be cleared, nor will the shipping line release the delivery order or release order for the shipment.
• Import shipments may be intensively inspected by Customs authorities with charges incurred.
• The importation of household goods and personal effects into the UAE is exempted from Customs duties.
• If any prohibited items are found during the Customs inspection, severe punishment will be imposed including fines, imprisonment, or both. All import duties are charged based on the costs, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of the shipment.
• Import Duties on new items are changed at 5% of the value of the item and VAT on total shipment value is 5% as well.

• It takes approximately 4 – 5 work-days for sea shipments, 3 – 4 days for air shipments.
  • Shipments not cleared within 5 days from the arrival date at the port will not have a free port storage period granted and the shipment will attract port charges from the first day of arrival.

• Shipments that arrive before the weekend i.e. Friday and Saturday will automatically lose two days of Customs clearance and the shipment can become more susceptible to incurring port storage charges.

Motor Vehicles

Documents Required

• Copy of passport
• Copy of residence visa on passport
• Copy of diplomatic card (diplomats)
• Residence permit
• Original / express bill of lading
• Authorization letter
• Title / Copy of certificate of origin / registration card from origin country vehicle certificate must include detailed description, including engine number, year of production, colour, etc.
• Copy of commercial invoice / copy of purchase invoice
• Proof of ownership

Specific Information

• The length of ownership is not applicable when deciding duties.
• Duties on new items @ 5% and VAT on total shipment value @ 5% are charged on all motor vehicles and goods.
• Customs will issue a vehicle clearance certificate in 2 – 3 days; this document is required for registration with the traffic department.
• Jebel Ali has tremendous port congestion, therefore, be aware of delays in clearing shipments, the time frame is approximately 1 – 2 weeks from the arrival date of shipment.
• Owners of the goods that are bringing cars must be able to provide a copy of their UAE residence visa or no clearance and release will take place.
• The vehicle can be older than 10 years with approval of the local agent.
• Vehicles with tinted glass restricted for import.
• Only left-handed cars are allowed.
• Details needed for Customs clearance:
• Model of the vehicles with the model number
• Colour of the vehicle
• Year of manufacture
• Current market value
• Engine and chassis number
• Weight of the vehicle (if applicable)

Prohibited and Restricted Items for the UAE:

Restricted/Dutiable Items

• The following items may qualify for free import if within the limits indicated:

• Cigarettes (400), cigars (50), tobacco (500)

Prohibited Items

• Weapons of all kinds
• Military uniforms
• Alcohol and spirits
• Narcotics of all kinds, including poppy seeds, flowers and leaves
• Banned substances, including drugs and medicines
• Radio transmitters, wireless transmitters and communication equipment
• Gambling games
• Statues and figures of animals with religious undertones
• Carvings and statues of humans (especially nude)
• Pornographic materials
• Controversial political and religious literature and materials contrary to Islamic principles
• Toxic and radioactive materials
• Items manufacture by Israeli blacklist and of Israeli origin
• Food items containing pork
• Articles made from endangered animals or made of ivory or rhinoceros horn
• Any other goods, the importation of which is prohibited under the authority of U.A.E. Customs laws or any other laws in the country
• Contact local agent for more specific details

International Movers from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Greece

Legal requirements & customs regulations for Greece

Visa regulations for moving to Greece

When immigrating to Greece from non-EU countries, you are supposed to get a visa and apply for a residence and work permit upon your arrival. While a visa allows foreigners to enter the country, permits provide a legal right to live and work in the country.

• Tourist visa. Apply for a tourist visa in Greece if you want to travel and stay there for less than 3 months.
• Business visa. This type of visa is issued to those who have business-related activities in Greece.
• Work visa. Expats who immigrate to Greece for employment reasons from outside the EU will have to sign a job contract first before applying for a work visa.
• Investment visa. Those who buy a dwelling in Greece, which costs more than €250,000 or those who invest at least €300,000 in the Greek economy are eligible for an investment visa.

Relocating from the UAE, Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Greece? Make it stress-free with KAE International Movers

Whether you are moving from or to the UAE or Greece, you should hire a professional moving company that can assist with your move. KAE international Movers helps you to save both time and money for your international relocation. Using our company is the quickest and most reliable way to move by from the UAE including Abu Dabhi and Dubai.

Frequent transports between Greece and the UAE

KAE International Movers have frequent transports between Greece and UAE, and deliver everywhere in the country. KAE provides you with moving services plus transportation, logistics and storage solutions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Greece. 

Our team consists of local experts experienced to help you move to the UAE or back to Greece, move your household goods, and settle into your new country. They will get your belongings from Greece to Dubai or Abu Dhabi (or the other way around) safely and on time.

Head on over to our website and fill out our “ask for a quote” page to find out what the costs would be to set you up at your new home. To start receiving a quote for moving from or to the UAE, simply fill in this form or email rates@kaeintlmovers.com and our international team will get back to you!

Make it easy with KAE International Movers from the UAE to Greece or vice versa for settling-in and other essential services.

Contact us today to jump start your move, and begin your preparations with for international moving from the UAE to Greece and vice versa.