BLOG.DIAMOND-WORLDWIDE.COM

New Vessel Manifest Confidentiality Form

2011-05-10T17:25:00Z

Help protect the privacy of anyone who imports or exports household goods in or out of the United States. The U.S. Customs & Border Protection has developed a “Vessel Manifest Confidentiality Request” pursuant to 19 CFR 103.31 which allows importers, shippers and consignees to file certification for confidential treatment for certain inward and outward vessel manifest information such as importer and/or shipper names and addresses.

This law allows accredited members of the press to examine, copy and publish certain vessel manifest and summary statistical information on all U.S. imports and exports. These companies can sell this data to anyone who wishes to view it.

This certification still allows the press to examine and copy this information, but not publish it. Before we dug into this issue and learned about the law, one of our customers found their name and shipping information published on the internet from one of these companies. After we contacted the publisher on behalf of our customer, they honored our request to immediately remove our customer information from their website and marketing e-newsletters.

We believe their intent is not to harm anyone but geared toward providing market intelligence to companies interested in learning about their competition. Others may not be so courteous and honor your request. After all, they are protected by the law unless a request is filed.

Contact us for detailed information on how to obtain this certification or for a competitive quote on your next international relocation. Call (828) 251-9903 or e-mail us at: Info@Diamond-Worldwide.com.

Importers of Household Goods to USA - BEWARE

2011-04-20T18:28:00Z

If you import household goods to the USA, beware of the possible extra charges incurred as a result of the latest laws enacted by U.S. Congress and enforced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs, U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to name a few. Do not take it out on your customs broker when your shipment is selected for one of many possible exams as they are just the messenger.

It used to be the exception for an import shipment to be selected for an exam. But now, it is rare that a household goods shipment escapes inspection from U.S. government officials seeking to find weapons of mass destruction or other prohibited, restricted or dutiable items. Most shipments are randomly selected for inspections. Yet shipments from some select countries are always inspected. It is the goal of U.S. Congress for all shipments to be at least x-ray scanned. Below is a partial list of possible inspections for your reference:

VACIS Exam – security x-ray scan

Intensive Exam – physical inspection of items by U.S. Customs or other government agents (inspections are carried out at the agencies bonded warehouse facilities)

CET- Inspection by Contraband Enforcement Team

AQI- Inspection by Agriculture Quarantine Inspection, part of the USDA

FDA – Inspection by the Food & Drug Administration

MET – Inspection by the Merchandise Exam Team performing Trade Fraud Exams

A-TCET – Inspection by the Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team

Such exams can and usually do result in extra charges to importers such as costs for the exam, extra trucking to the exam site, warehouse handling & port storage, demurrage, fumigation, extra documentation/processing, merchandise processing fees, duties, taxes and bond fees. These fees could add up to be from $100 to $2,000 or more depending on the intensity and time it takes for the exams.

Diamond Worldwide is often the bearer of bad news to customers who’s shipment is selected for an exam. We do our best to expedite the process and minimize costs. Yet there is only so much that can be done. Providing all the necessary documentation timely and having an accurate and detailed inventory is critical and helps to avoid an exam. Citizens of the U.S. should be comforted by the measures being taken to keep us safe, protect our food supply and to manage the importation of restricted and prohibited items. Yet the cost to the importer is high and should not be a surprise.

For more information, contact Diamond Worldwide Relocation at info@diamond-worldwide.com or call:

(828) 251-9903

Mistletoe and Moving

2010-12-09T18:03:16Z

The holiday season is upon us. Many of us in relocation grew up hearing about the mystery and legend of kissing under the mistletoe for luck, to bestow fertility, ward off evil spirits and witches or to receive "life giving" power. Many still kiss under it to seek its peace-giving properties, obtain a promise to marry, ensure happiness and long life, to declare a truce or for warring spouses to make-up. Some believe if a single girl is not kissed while standing under a mistletoe, she should not be expected to be married in the following year. If kissed, a prediction of deep romance, lasting friendship and goodwill or even marriage could be in her near future.

Whether you believe these ancient legends and beliefs or not, are you willing to take the chance and suffer the consequences of not kissing someone under the mistletoe awaiting your kiss? Like many traditions, it is all in fun and not my intent to make anyone feel guilty for not respecting a tradition. Yet, did you know this pretty sprig of leaves and berries has no toes and is really a poisonous and parasite? It grows on trees while its roots penetrate them to take up nutrients. An unless you want a bad stomach or enjoy pain, do not eat the berries. It is amazing that this unassuming plant with such a beautiful history of spreading happiness has a dark-side rarely discussed.

Mistletoes are much like Diamond Worldwide Relocation.  SInce our inception as an international move management company, we have spread happiness to relocating families by providing superior service maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rate. Yet to achieve that, we too have a dark-side that our customers never see. Like a mistletoe, we provide peace of mind, happiness and develop lasting relationships with our clients who relocate around the world.

Yet international relocation is an imperfect business. To assure our clients receive a smooth and safe relocation, we take the bull by the horns. Our strong constitution is tested daily. The battles we fight and win on behalf of our clients are many to accomplish our only mission. Using our whip, wit, wisdom and sometimes venom, it assures all goes according to plan making us the most proactive international move management company in the business. Thankfully, our customers never see our dark-side and enjoy its benefits.

So, while the risk of not kissing under the mistletoe is high, the consequences "could" be devastating. Whilst we are not seeking kisses, we believe that entrusting Diamond Worldwide with your next international relocation will bring you peace of mind and happiness.

From all of us at Diamond Worldwide, we wish you a very merry holiday season.

P.S.  One of our veteran move managers married one of our customers this past summer. We are not sure if a mistletoe was involved.

"EXPO 2010" SHANGHAI, CHINA Opens May 1-Oct 31 with a Message of Hope

2010-05-03T20:25:00Z

What does this have to anything to do with moving families around the world? Everything!

Over 70 million citizens of the world are expected to visit this expo and the Shanghai area over the next 6 months. Increased security is expected affecting inbound and outbound air/ocean shipments in Shanghai. All surface shipments are under 100% inspection and expect additional delays of 2 to 4 days on air shipments. Video's and DVD's are of particular interest to inspectors.

"Better City, Better Life"
According to the official website, en.expo2010.cn, the theme of this year's Expo is "Better City, Better Life" which represents the common wish of humankind for a better living in future urban environments. This theme is a representation of the central concern of the international community for future policy making, urban strategies and sustainable development. This ambitious message gives me hope for the world environment and the relocation industry. Everyone who relocates expects that their new destination will mean a better life. At Diamond Worldwide, we help people make those dreams come true.

Be Green, Train & Listen
Whilst Expo 2010 highlights the best face of the host country with over 5 pavilions, the show offers pavilions from over 200 additional countries. Isn't that great? Regardless of where you live or your politics, everyone is trying to do things better, cleaner and with more efficiency. That is what we strive for every day at Diamond Worldwide - be green, continuously improve through training and most of all listen to our customers.

Teamwork & Community
Regardless of the terrible news of the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the volcano eruption in Iceland, the continued War on Terrorism, piracy in the Gulf of Aden and other tragedies too many to mention, one cannot help but feel optimistic when events like Expo 2010 open to the public. People from across the globe come together to exhibit their progress in technology and innovation demonstrating teamwork and community to improve how we all live.

Challenges of Relocation
It reminds me of the challenges our potential customers face each time they face an international move. There are rogues out there just waiting to take advantage of them. People are looking for a mover they can trust. They seek an oasis in the middle of a desert that will help them through the process, look after their every need and guide them through the trials and tribulations of the unknown to reach their destination safely. At Diamond Worldwide Relocation, we take the mystery out of relocation.

Trust, Quality and Safety Just Around the Corner
Whether you are a corporate client in need of a dependable move management company you can trust, a mover in need of a dependable household goods freight forwarder for your clients or an individual seeking a quality driven company to help you move safely anywhere in the world, DIamond Worldwide Relocation is your oasis.

For more information on DIamond Worldwide Relocation, go to www.diamond-worldwide.com, call (828) 251-9903 or e-mail
info@diamond-worldwide.com. We are truly "A Cut Above the Rest".

Does Your Relocation Company Follow a Code of Ethics?

2010-02-19T20:07:00Z

Introduction

As owner of Diamond Worldwide Relocation, a domestic and international move management company for relocating families, movers and corporate move managers, I am proud and excited about the unveiling of “The Manifest”; our new blog on topical issues in the domestic and international relocation industry. I promise to keep it honest, current and hopefully informative. Anyone involved in relocation (movers, corporate move managers, relocation companies, relocating families) should find something of interest in each issue. I encourage you to subscribe, share it with friends & peers, participate in our discussions, agree or disagree and provide feedback on content. Using my 40+ years in the relocation industry, I will offer ideas, helpful hints and sometimes controversial opinions on the relocation industry for your reading pleasure. So, let’s get started!

Honesty, Trust and Integrity in Business are Key to Success

Over the years, I have either visited or interacted with literally hundreds of moving & relocation companies all over the world. Most are honest, hardworking folks delivering a quality service with a foundation of integrity. They genuinely care about their customers, peers, vendors and business associates. Generally, a high level of trust exists between all. Most companies publish some type of “Code of Ethics” guidelines for employees to follow and sell it to their customers. The belief is that everyone in the company not only agrees with their philosophy but adheres to it every day. Not surprisingly, these companies are successful, profitable, growing and employee morale is good.

Warning to Consumers

Yet I have observed a small but rising number of people and companies in the relocation industry that do not follow the generally accepted business principles of behavior and ethical standards established by industry organizations such as the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), International Association of Movers (IAM) and Worldwide Employee Relocation Council (ERC). I am not referring to the unlicensed “Rogue Mover” making news by ripping off consumers and being prosecuted by the FBI (see more at Movingscam.com). Thankfully, those giving the industry a bad reputation do not last long and hopefully get what they deserve. The good news is organizations like AMSA have a very aggressive program to improve industry quality (Pro-Mover Program) and initiatives to rid these rogues from the industry.

Infected Companies

I am referring to a growing list of previously good licensed movers, relocation companies and corporations worldwide that have lost their way because they have been infected. If you see dishonesty, unresponsiveness, bad business decisions and focus on the company before the customer, then your company may have been infected and it could be deadly. It is rarely talked about publically because of the negative stigma. It is like a mole on the tip on your nose; everyone knows it is there but refuses to acknowledge it exists. It is lowering overall customer expectations to unacceptable levels in my opinion. Too many companies promote “quality service” and publish a Code of Ethics; yet in reality it is only window dressing. Some employees may ignore policy and others may not even know they exist. One reason for this may be because of the priority by senior management to cut costs & make profit in a poor economy. Unfortunately, these decisions result in poor service and the relocating family suffering most. Another reason could be due to lack of exercise; no emphasis on implementing its Code & policies by management. Bad practices can also be imported into a good company by hiring bad apples from bad companies. Regardless of the reasons, if the infection exists, it must be cured starting from the top down for a company to succeed and keep customer satisfaction levels high. Having a written Quality Control Program and Code is not enough. It takes constant monitoring and must be followed from the CEO to the floor sweeper in every organization.

What Should a Consumer Do?

There are over 8,000 licensed movers in the USA and approximately 38% are members of AMSA. Internationally, there are 2,000 members of IAM in 165 countries that handle over 50,000 international relocations per year. In addition, Worldwide ERC has over 12,000 corporate and relocation service industry members in 65 countries focused on the corporate relocation market. Because these organizations insist that their members uphold to high standards of performance & push to improve industry quality through training, certification and government action committees, anyone purchasing relocation services should only consider companies that are active members of these organizations. They are working to help raise the bar of services provided for relocating families. Diamond Worldwide is proud to be an active member of all three of all these organizations.

AMSA’s Code of Ethics

AMSA’s Code of Ethics starts with: “We the members…stand united in the sincere beliefs that honest, ethical, efficient and quality services to the public are the ultimate goals of this organization”. It goes on to say that the membership pledges: “To be conscious and considerate of consumer needs and to continually promote the progress, fraternity, education and dignity of our industry so that the public will be better served.” All the above mentioned relocation industry organizations have similar standards, bylaws, Codes of Conduct and strict membership requirements. Shouldn’t all relocation service providers strive to reach these simple goals? Unfortunately, this is not the case in the USA, where the industry customer satisfaction ratio hovers in the low 70’s. I am proud to report that Diamond Worldwide consistently has a rating in the high 90’s and “a cut above the rest”.

Summary

To fellow relocation service business owners and senior management, I suggest that you publish a “Code of Ethics” that fits your culture and philosophy within your organization. If you have one already, make sure all your employees have read it, agree with it and adhere to it every day. Your customers, vendors and peers will all benefit from this critical part of every successful business. We were all taught as children to: Be honest, act with integrity, trust your friends and treat everyone with respect. If you work with Diamond Worldwide Relocation as a customer or vendor, you will be treated like family.

To learn more about Developing and Managing a Code of Ethics, contact:

Websites:

The International Business Ethics Institute: www.business-ethics.org

AMSA: www.promover.org

IAM: www.iamovers.org

ERC: www.worldwideerc.org

Diamond Worldwide Relocation Contact Info:

Web Address
www.diamond-worldwide.com

Phone
828-251-9903

E-Mail

phil@diamond-worldwide.com

Subject Related Books:

Bowie, Norman E., and Patricia H. Werhane. Management Ethics. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2005

Chryssides, George D., and John H. Kaler. An Introduction to Business Ethics. Florence , KY. Thompson, 1993

Subject Related Journal Articles:

King, Hans. “A Global Ethic in an Age of Globilization.”, Business Ethics Quarterly 7:3 (1997); 17-32.

Navran, Frank.”12 Steps to Building a Best Practice Ethics Program”.” Workforce 76:9 (September 1997): 120-22

Welcome

2010-01-29T20:46:13Z

Welcome to my blog. Please check back soon for new entries.