Toshav Chozer - Israel Aliyah Expo 2010
"Toshav Hozer Center" a non profit organization is planning a few Aliyah Expos in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London and other major cities.
These expos attract thousands of Israelis as well as potential Olim who are looking for updated information prior to their return / Aliyah.
For details about locations and time of event please follow our advertisements in the media as well as in this website.
Also, most recommended to contact us in order to get on our mailing list so we will invite you to these events.
Subjects to be discussed in these events:
- Toshav Chozer – Ministry of absorption's rights (Misrad Haklita's rights)
- Toshav Chozer – Customs' rights
- Toshav Chozer – Israel IRS (Mas Hachnasa) special rights.
- Toshav Chozer – Car personal import.
- Toshav Chozer – Shipping to Israel.
- Toshav Chozer – Purchasing appliances in Israel.
- Toshav Chozer – Appliances' personal import (purchasing abroad)
- Toshav Chozer – Health insurance for the waiting period.
- Toshav Chozer – Marine insurance.
- Toshav Chozer – Doing business in Israel.
- Toshav Chozer – Banking and finance (money transfer etc.).
- Toshav Chozer – Helpful advises to ease your return.
Dear Toshav Chozer;
Surveys show that the process of moving to a new home is one of the most stressful events in one’s life, even more so relocating or returning to your old country.
These days when you are carefully planning this important step, you will be happy to know that not only you do not have to bear the entire decision on your own, but that the move can be even joyful.
Using our over twenty five years successful experience of publishing guides (Going Home) for shipping to Israel, the 220V appliances market marine insurance and other important Aliyah subjects, we have created this special web site (toshav hozer) to cater for your tailored needs.
We hope this new web site will be of great assistant to you. It will save you time, money and frustration. It will also lead you step by step through hidden problems that might arise, by explaining your rights and duties in order to avoid some of these complications. You will be advised on different subjects as how to ship your cargo, recommended shipping companies (listed by country / city), which item is most suitable for Israel and which items will not comply with the voltage, cycle and other specifications of the country.
Remember, the more prepared you are in advance, the smoother the move will be.
We wish you a satisfying move with best results.
Israel Halberstein, Web site director
Terminal for Pets
The Israeli Agency for International Pet Transport
1-800-220-555
www.terminal4pets.co.il
Important Tip for drivers
An Oleh, Toshav Chozer or Tourist who has had car insurance in another country, should obtain a letter from their insurer stating the number of years no claims they have had (preferably 3 years or more) in order to qualify for a reduced premium. Without this letter, the Oleh, Toshav Chozer or Tourist will be insured as a new driver!!
Save a lot of money and get this letter.
Content
1. Introduction.
2. General information.
3. Health insurance in Israel (for the waiting period).
4. 220V appliances shopping guide.
5. Shipping to Israel.
6. Marine insurance.
7. CPA Corner - Get a free advice before making a move
General
A Toshav Chozer is an Israeli citizen who meets the following criteria:
· Is at least 17 years of age;
· Has resided abroad for at least two years (1.5 years for students);
· During his/her time abroad, has not visited Israel for 120 days or more per year (365 days);
· Has not used his/her rights as a returning resident in the past (If you have only used custom privileges before, and have spent six years or more in Israel after that, you could be eligible for custom privileges again.
Final determination of the returning resident status is made by the Ministry of Absorption in Israel, upon your return, by verifying the stamps of entry and exit in your passports.
Some of the Privileges for Toshav Chozer include:
· Discount on a one-way ticket to Israel with ELAL Airlines, and permission to check-in one extra piece of luggage.
· Customs privileges: tax exemption on the import of articles for household use. Access the Customs Department's web site for further information.
· Assistance for scientists, artists and business entrepreneurs.
. Loans, seminars
Before your return, please make sure to have the following:
1. A valid Israeli passport.
2. Children of Israeli citizens born abroad and moving to Israel must have their own Israeli passports, even if they also have a U.S. passport. Please refer to the Passports and Travel Documents section for further information.
3. If only one spouse returns to Israel with minor children, the remaining spouse must sign a power of attorney. This will enable the returning spouse to receive benefits, register the children to school, etc. In case of divorce, a written consent or proof of custody must be presented.
In order to obtain the discounted ELAL ticket:
1. Contact the ELAL Reservations Department, (212) 768-9200 to make a “returning resident” reservation, and receive a confirmation number (PIN number).
2. You may then come to the Consulate with all the travelers’ passports (Israeli and others, from the past two years) and the confirmation number. We will issue you the voucher for ELAL.
The Consulate is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 12:00PM (except U.S. national and Jewish holidays).
Health Insurance for Toshav Chozer (For the waiting period)
Those who have not continued to pay their social security dues while abroad and/or are no longer considered a “resident” of Israel are NOT eligible for the national health insurance upon their return. During their waiting period (one month for every year they have spent abroad after March 2001, max 6 months), they should arrange for private insurance. For private health insurance please contact "Toshav Chozer Center" at: toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net or at telephone number: 03 672-8255. Children are immediately eligible for the national health insurance.
220V Appliances Shopping Guide
Imperia personal import
Your #1 place for 220V appliances
Tel: 03-6728255 Fax: 03-6729534
E-Mail: imperia@bezeqint.net
As your moving date gets closer the big question looms ever larger. How will I go about doing these purchases in a proper comprehensive way – painlessly and quickly? The selection can often be bewildering. The feeling is like a child in a toy store faced with overwhelming choices. This guide can not make choices for you. Everyone’s taste and budget differs somewhat. One thing can be said: ”Begin at the appliances shop”.
Some of the most rewarding benefits in a move abroad (to Israel) are the shopping opportunities available worldwide.
Warning: Do not let your appliances’ dealer sell you what he wants or what he has in stock, we highly recommend to look only for the newest models (do not forget, you can use these duty free rights only once !).
In order to help you to choose the right appliances and to see the newest models available, try these well known companies’ web sites:
www.sony.co.uk
www.scholtesil.co.il
www.dyson.com
www.crystal.co.il
www.miele.co.uk
www.smeguk.com
www.amana.com
www.zanussi.co.uk
www.maytag.com
www.bosch.co.uk
www.ge.co.il
www.topaudio.co.il
www.dedietrich.co.uk
www.aeg.co.uk
www.bwspeakers.com
www.onkyo.net
www.rotel.com
www.dacor.com
www.sharp.co.uk
www.NADelectronics.com
www.vikingrange.com
www.monogram.com
www.amana.co.uk
www.liebherr.com
Customs Regulations
Be sure you are aware of your customs status as a Toshav Chozer. Be sure, first of all that you qualify. Talk to your Jewish Agency Shalich or consular official. Be aware of those few restrictions and qualifications that do exist. You have a question, feel free to contact us at
toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net, or see "contact us" on home page.
Local conditions
Toshavim Hozrim from USA & Canada, as you may know, Israel has a different electrical system than the USA. The voltage is 220 volts and the alternating current cycle at 50 Hz instead of 110 volts 60 Hz the norm.
Appliances requiring gas may have to be built for propane instead of methane gas used in the most of USA.
There are a multitude of various TV and DVD broadcast systems and in the world. Israel uses PAL system and is incompatible with the USA and many other countries. This is relevant in purchasing TV’s, DVD, VCR’s and camcorders. The locations of stations in the radio broadcast spectrum can be different, as well. Important for digital radio tuners.
An impure water system can affect special water – using appliances i.e.: dishwashers, irons, ice makers etc. When appliances exist in a “tropicalized” version insist on them to be so designated.
Serviceability
The availability of service or, at last , spare parts is something to ask about. This can be important in the long run for high quality products. The last decade has seen an explosion of international trade. Consequently, more companies are represented in more places. Many major manufacturers have even set up special customer service facilities in Israel for the international customer.
Major Appliances
General advise – As a result of a recent duties / taxes reduction on appliances in Israel, it pays to bring ONLY the top brand names (see recommendations list).
Refrigerators: Buy USA made as GE, Amana, Maytag, Sub Zero and Viking or German made, Liebherr.
Most refrigerators today are frost free. This type of bother-free refrigerator has become more and more efficient and has proven itself in the consumer market. Although it is slightly less energy efficient it has achieved worldwide acceptance.
There are two types, side by side and top bottom. The side by side type is more popular in Israel and more expensive. If you decide to purchase a top bottom refrigerator, please buy the 25 c/f. If you decide to buy the side by side type, do not buy less than 22 c/f. Anything less is very difficult to use (freezer width is too narrow). Many of these frost free refrigerators offer an ice maker as an accessory (highly recommended).
The newest models (by Amana) have 3 doors. A side by side on the top and the freezer on the bottom (sometimes as a drawer).
Washers: most recommended are the German made like Miele which are most suitable for the Israeli hard water conditions. Also American made, Maytag for top load or large capacity. Keep in mind four possibilities; US made, European made, top load, front load.
European style - Most open from the front, are 60 X 60 cm, have a capacity of 5 – 9 Kg, have a built in water heater that can reach 90 degree Celsius and can take up to two hours to do a wash. These machines are very popular and most suitable for the Israeli market.
American style – Most open from the top, are 65 X 69 cm, have a capacity of 8-10 Kg depend on outside source for hot water and can do a wash in about half an hour (most recommended – Maytag).
Dryers : Again, most recommended are the German made like Miele, most popular for Americans – Maytag.
Europeans are mostly 60 X 60 cm and are all electric. American style can be gas or electric and can be as large as 75 X 69 cm (which sometimes it is too big for Israeli standards). Of course, European washers and dryers stack more easily. Some models have sensors that turns the dryer off when cloth dry, eliminating guesswork.
Some European machines have also a condenser which is safer and a better quality than the venting system.
Oven / cookers: Most recommended are the French made like Scholtes. Possibilities are free standing or the built in type used in modern kitchens. American ovens are barely sold in Israel.
Some options available: Free-standing ranges integrate the cooking range and the oven in one unit. Most French ovens are 60cm wide and have gas cooker and electric oven. In addition the French ovens contain a convection fan for circulating the hot air. This speeds up the bake/broil time and evens out the effect of the oven. Most popular ones are the multifunction, which allows you to combine different types of heat sources and the turbo into all sorts of permutations for truly creative cuisine.
Built-in ovens and cook tops split up the two different functions of baking and cooking in two different units. Besides being esthetically pleasing, these type of units feature amenities not available on the simple range. Some cook tops come with vitroceramic smooth tops and Halogen hi-speed heating elements. Both of these ovens come in three standards: A. Plain B. Continuous clean (catalytic), special coating C. Self clean (pyrolytic) , which cleans with high temperature making your oven like new. This self clean oven is a bit more expensive but highly recommended.
Dishwashers: Most recommended are the German made like Miele which are most suitable for the Israeli hard water conditions.
European made usually have stainless steel interiors and water softeners which prevents lime scale built up. Remember, it is very important. These machines actually save energy, time and water and it is far more sanitary than hand washing.
There is no question that the European dishwashers are superiors.
Dishwashers come in three forms: Built-in integral that has no sides or top and is meant to be finished by your kitchen installer. This is for designer kitchens. Free standing that is meant to stand alone connected to a close, but remote water, drain, and electrical points. Many of these are convertible to built-in by removing the top and sides.
Stereo and Video equipment: Important to check that your TV system matches your stereo and VCR / DVD equipment or you may end up with useless equipment. It is important that your video / DVD equipment communicates with your TV. Most of these items are manufactured in Europe or the far east (Obviously this field has many options to offer and it all depends mostly on your budget. Most recommended for speakers are B&W and Energy and for receiver Onkyo and Rotel). For more info please see above web sites.
TV’s: As was mentioned above, make sure the TV’s system is suitable for the Israeli market, most recommended is a multi system TV (which has a Pal system as well). These days the wide screen TV’s become very popular in Israel and Europe and they are highly recommended. Most recommended brand is Sony.
Plasma and LCD are very popular these days and you should get one for yourself using your rights.
Some features you should know about are:
Small appliances:
As a result of a recent duties / taxes reduction on appliances in Israel, it does NOT pay to buy them abroad but to buy them in Israel .
Small appliances which are still recommended:
Mixer – Kenwood or KitchenAid
Vacuum – Dyson
Garbage disposal – GE (Best model GFC 701, ¾ horse power)
General:
Imperia personal import
Your #1 place for 220V appliances
Tel: 03-6728255 Fax: 03-6729534
E-Mail: imperia@bezeqint.net
One of the major problems which encountered by shoppers can be unreliable delivery information. When something is delayed for domestic purchase, it means waiting a little longer. For people like you, this can mean missing shipping deadline it is vital that you get an ironclad guarantee form your appliances dealer on delivery dates. Please be very careful not to wait until the last minute with your shopping. Take your time out to inspect your purchases. Make sure the model numbers are all correct as well as the colors.
Another option is to do your shopping in Israel through companies who specialize in that field (“Imperia – Personal Import” is highly recommended see web site: www.imperia.co.il or web address: imperia@bezeqint.net), this option has many advantages over doing so in your origin country:
A. You will never miss a shipping deadline
B. You have 9 months to make up your mind (what’s the rush) .
Only in Israel you will know the size of your apartment and be able to order the right appliances.
You will have a larger selection and be able to see and buy it NOT through a catalog.
You should choose to make your purchases in a place known for honesty and reliability. A well established firm with many years of experience in the export line is something to look for. Also, most important is the reputation of the firm. Try to ask around among friends who made Aliyah already about the company. Find out if people making purchases there were satisfied with the information given, prices and product delivery.
Remember, some prudent shopping now can turn this move into an astute financial decision for you and your family.
Shipping to Israel
Looking for a recommended shipping company ?
Could not find one ? Feel free to contact us at toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net or via "contact us" and we will try to help you.
General:
One of the most complex and sensitive issues regarding your overseas
relocation is the shipping of your belongings.
At the beginning of this chapter some of the key subjects such as packing, type of services available and customs regulations etc. will be mentioned. Later on these crucial issues which you must be well aware of in order to choose the best overseas shipping company for your personalized needs, will be explained to you in detail.
Reading carefully through this chapter will save you much time, money and frustration. The chapter will raise some of the possible problems which can occur and other important issues that shipping companies do not always like to mention. In this chapter, the reader will be wisely advised how to protect himself in advance.
In today’s market there is a large number of overseas shippers. Some are large companies and more famous while others are smaller but just as well competitive. Each company will attempt to convince you that it can provide the best service for the lowest cost. The main question is which company is indeed the BEST shipper and whose services will be most satisfying for your needs.
Due to our objectivity, we will analyze for you all advantages of such a move. Understanding that the term BEST in this specific case does not carry a general meaning but a personal one. Besides the well known criteria by which one decides upon a shipping company, such as trustworthy, reliable services and right price, you must also look into the shipper’s specialized destination points. Some companies ship more than others, and they might have an edge on services and prices to those specific locations.
Services Available:
Warehouse to Door, Warehouse to Port (Destination), Door to Port (Destination) and Door to Door (Destination).
Exclusive 20’ and 40’ containers door to door
The price for door to door service includes the following:
1. Preliminary packing of breakable goods at your home.
2. Removal from your residence for delivery to shipper’s plan for final
export packing.
3. Receiving your goods and consolidating all outside purchases at
shipper’s plant.
4. Export packing into heavy duty wooden lift vans and/or containers.
5. Placing the van into steel containers.
6. Preparation of all documents.
7. Delivery to steamship line.
8. Pre-payment of all ocean freight.
9. Releasing your effects at the Israeli port.
10. Destination services include – Custom clearance, In house delivery, unpacking and removal of all debris.
Warehouse to port service include #’s 3 through 9. Warehouse to Door service include #s 3 through 10. Door to Port service include #’s 1 through 9.
Pre-Move Check List:
Phone the moving/shipping company 2 – 3 months before moving date.
Plan items to be shipped.
Purchase new items to be shipped.
Make itemized inventory.
Determine value of the inventory.
Confirm moving date.
Confirm arriving date at destination.
Make storage arrangements (on both ends, if necessary).
Have all documents and valuables with you, including passport, record of inoculations, visa if necessary, invoices of new items, etc.
Agents’ name and address – date of sailing – expected arrival date – container number – number of units shipped for you.
Provide list of purchases made and being delivered to warehouse. Itemized list of goods being shipped with dollar value for insurance purposes.
Provide notify address in Israel so shipper’s office can contact you.
Most Important: After packing your goods into a metal container it is most recommended to put your own lock on it and keep the key for yourself (in
addition to the seal and lock the shipping company will put on).
Estimate - The first step is to have an estimator visit your home to make a complete evaluation.There is no charge for this survey and, or course, you are under noobligation whatsoever. Examining, room by room, item by item, the estimator can determine the shipping method best suited to your particular needs. You will be advised of the approximate volume (cubic meter/footage) involved, the most economical and efficient way to proceed, and all other aspects of your move will be discussed in full detail. It’s highly recommended to take this opportunity to have all your questions answered by this qualified estimator. If you like to do your own estimate, please consult with a table of measurements.
Planning To Move – Items to ship; this decision, of course, must be made by yourself after judging all factors. Obviously, it will be simple one if you have an apartment secured, know the size of the rooms, have a floor plan made, and know just how your furniture and appliances will fit. Our only advice in this case would be to make certain that the delivery into the apartment will not create any insurmountable problems because of oversized couches, pianos, etc. The dimensions of halls and stairways have to be considered; elevators and lifts in Israel are sometimes too small to be used for transportation of large items. The decision will be more difficult for those who do not have definite apartments yet and who, for the first few months, will go into temporary housing. In these instances, our advice is “be selective”. Take the things which are generally suitable for Israel, or which you simply, do not wish to part with, but bear in mind the different mode of living in Israel (more out-door living terraces, smaller apartments and smaller rooms). Also consider the cost of shipping. Make sure that the article is not only desirable for your new home in Israel, but is worthwhile to take. Know your privileges with respect to the customs regulations. Laws are subject tochange and thelatest customs information should be obtained. Please see the Israeli customs web site .
ITEMS NOT TO SHIP: To avoid financial loss, it is recommended not to ship the items mentioned in the following list. Any questions concerning the importation of any item should be addressed to the nearest Israeli Consulate General or write us toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net , please also see "Contact us".
1. Valuable Papers
2. Stamp Collection
3. Coin Collection
4. Valuable Jewelry
5. Pressure Spray Cans
6. Inflammable Items
7. Liquid Bleach
8. Opened Liquid Glass Bottles
9. Excessive Food Staples
10. Fire Arms (License required)
11. Live plants or seeds (License required)
12. Broadcast Equip. or Walkie – Talkie (License required)
13. New Building Material
14. Alcohol (Hand Luggage Only).
(*) Caution: Do not include in your shipment items belonging to others. Customs examination may reveal importation of duplicate or restricted items resulting in fines penalties or confiscation.
HOW TO PACK - preliminary packing of dishes, silver, crystal and other breakables shouldbe left to shipping company professionals. They can do it better and in a fraction of the time. However, if you prefer to do your own pre-packing for reasons of convenience or economy we suggest you follow the instructions listed below:
Tips On Packing:
Appliances & Utensils – Wrap and place small appliances and utensils in sturdy cartons with the heaviest items on bottom. Nest pots & pans wherever possible to conserve space.
Books – Pack in small cartons, Alternate bindings.
Bric-a-Brac – Wrap separately and pack tightly so that items can’t shift during handling.
Chinaware, Glassware, Silverware & Valuable Articles – Breakable items should be wrapped individually in paper. Large plates and heavy pieces should be placed on the bottom of the container, on edge. Smaller plates, cups and saucers toward the top. Plated and dishes should be placed in a vertical position with pads of paper in between. Recommended – 3” of paper on the bottom and 2” of paper between layers. Do not pack above edge of container.
Clothing, Draperies, Linen, Towels – Software should be folded and neatly packed into clean cartons or bureau drawers. Medium sized carton would suit this purpose.
Footlockers & Trunks – Both are useful in shipping light items and soft goods. They are marked, steel strapped, and put directly into the steel container. Wood boxing would not be necessary which represents a saving to you.
Glasstops, mirrors, painting and marble – We suggest these items be wrapped and then crated. For small mirrors, paintings, etc. carefully wrap each and place on edge in cartons.
Lamps & Lampshades – Remove bulbs and shades and pack lamps with linen or wrap separately and place in clean cartons. Shades should be wrapped completely in tissue and placed in large tissue linen cartons.
Rugs – Should be rolled and wrapped in plastic.
Tools – Remove all fuel from power tools. (do not ship flammable fuel under any circumstances). Pack tools in small strong cartons. Wrap separately if fragile.
(*) Final Export Packing - After preliminary packing and effects have all been received at shipper warehouse, the goods are measured for the final phase of boxing. All interior space is utilized so that shipper provides you with a maximum density factor. The shipping company should invite you to be present at their plant during the packing procedure so that you may bring last minute items that may be included.
(*) Cubic Meter / Feet - The cost of your shipment is determined by the services provided and the outside cubic volume of your shipment.(For US shippers - to determine the cubic feet of a particular item, measure three sides and multiply the length by width by the depth inches then divide the result by 1728.
Example: 2’x 2’ x 2’ – 8 cubic feet 24”x 24” x 24” divide = 1728 = 8 cubic feet.
EXPORT PACKING OF ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES it is our recommendation that when purchasing heavy electrical appliances as a separate shipment without household effects, they should be Export Packed in addition of factory packed.
Although appliances export packed are more costly to ship, we recommend it since this sort of packing reduce the danger of damaging your appliances upon their arrival. Please keep in mind that replacement and repairing charges of appliances in Israel are much more costly than the additional expense of export packing.
(*) Purchases - some shipping companies will provide you with tax exemption letters addressed to your suppliers with instructions that the goods are to be delivered to shipper’s plant for consolidation and shipment abroad. These letters are accepted by all suppliers as an exemption from local taxes (defers from country to country). Consolidations are held at the shipping company plant at no additional charge. The shipper should keep on file, records of all items received for your account. A copy of receipts should be mailed to you. Please note that you are responsible to oversee that all your purchases arrive prior to your own departure. However, in instances where this is not possible, it is recommended that you leave a complete list with shipper of all purchases made. Shipper will keep in touch with your supplies and see to it that your shipment does not go out before all merchandise arrives.
(*) Note of caution – Many suppliers are not following through in delivering all purchases. Costly problems may arise if singular items are sent at a later date. We recommend that your effects be in the warehouse 2 weeks prior to date of sailing.
This will enable shipper to give your shipment the personal attention and time required to complete the export boxing, paperwork and all necessary shipping arrangements.
(*) Insurance (See also a separate chapter) - There are several very reputable Israeli insurance companies that are offering all risk marine Insurance on shipments of household effects. We highly recommend to use one of these Israeli companies, after all damages and losses will be found only when shipment arrives to Israel and it will be much easier to deal directly with a local company (most recommended company, "Maagan", you can contact at toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net. At the same time, in order to fully protect your interests it is your responsibility to provide the insurance company with a detailed dollar value inventory list. The lack of such an inventory or any discrepancy or inaccuracy in the data for value stated in the inventory may complicate or delay settlement of claims covered under insurance policy.
Claim procedure requires that you notify the nearest claims office as indicated in your insurance policy for survey of damage, immediately after taking delivery of your effects. You may do this by phone or in person, but do not fail to make a written report, keep a copy and, if no action has been taken by the visit of a surveyor, then you must repeat this call – to be followed, if necessary, by a register letter. The surveyor’s report, original insurance certificate, packing slips, bills, and other documents, as required, will be submitted to the underwriters for approval of the claim. This procedure may take some time regardless of the company involved. However, a well documented claim will expedite settlement.
Storage in Israel
When your cargo arrives to Israel and your apartment is not ready yet, you will have to think about storing your belongings for some time. It is important to know your options (*) in this field:
Small shipment (less than a container load):
1. First 30 days at the port are FREE.
2. From day 31st, you will pay (about) $2 a day.
3. If you need storage for a few months, it’s recommended to contact a
professional storage company.
Big shipment – Full container load
Payments to Israel port authority:
1. First 4 days are free.
2. Fifth day – 20’ container will pay $18, while 40’ container will pay $27.
Each additional day, price PER DAY will go up substantially !
Payments to steamship line companies:
1. First week FREE.
2. Second week - $10 per day.
3. Third week - $20 per day.
4. Each additional week, price per day will go up.
(*) Olim get discount on above prices.
Necessary documents to expedite clearance through customs for Toshav Chozer / Oleh Hadash:
Your and your spouse valid passports and your children who are dependents. (including, all previous passports if any)
Teudat Oleh (Oleh certificate).
Fully detailed list contents.
Contract or lease of your apartment.
Invoices for any new appliances and other purchases.
Insurance list.
Shipper’s Bill of Landing (if you will customs clear your belongings)
Letter from your Moshav, Kibbutz, or yeshiva etc.
Marine insurance
Why pay more? Get a discounted Toshav Hozer Rate
(Get a free quote for your cargo from the most recommended insurance company "Maaga – insurance agency" at: toshav-hozer@bezeqint.net)
I have been in the business of moving people to Israel for many years. I have dealt with thousands of returning Israelis and Olim and have never seen anyone ships his/her belongings without taking out a marine insurance policy.
Despite the above statistics, many people approach me each year and question on the validity of such an act. “Do we really need it?” they ask. “What will happen if…? Well, I have only one answer to give. Yes it is a must for every person moving to Israel! After all, this is not your typical local move from one block to another, or from one city to another. It is a move across the ocean which passes through many hands and goes through many obstacles.
In light of this, you need a strong insurance policy to back you up and protect you.
This insurance policy could be your only remedy in case of a damage, missing items or any catastrophes that may occur. There is no other way to protect your belongings.
Now after we have “solved” the question of whether you need to take out an insurance policy for your shipment, we would have to deal with more difficult questions, mainly, of choosing one that fits your needs, and what questions you should ask before signing a contract.
I should also like to add that I highly recommend that the insurance company you choose be based in Israel. In order to insure your shipment for its full replacement value, it is best that your agent be established or have office in Israel. There can be no and’s, if’s or but’s on this one! In turn, an Israeli based agent can provide you with any further service you might have need of, make it beneficial to you both.
A few more tips on going about selecting a company and questions that should be asked:
1. Contact the insurance company/agency two or three months prior to
your departure.
2. Ask for the “all risk” policy. It is by far the most comprehensive and
protective one you can get.
3. Find out how much deductible is in case of a claim. Sometimes,
insurance companies ask for special deductible for special individual
items, as for piano, art pieces, etc.
4. Find out if the insurance policy covers the shipment of your goods from
the appliance store to the shippers warehouse.
5. Find out if the insurance policy covers: A. Storage in your origin country (and how long?)
B. Storage in Israel (if necessary).
C. Delivery from port of arrival (Haifa, Ashdod) to your apartment in Israel.
6. Insurance companies ask for appraisal for high value items such as art
pieces, fur coats, oriental and chinese rugs, etc.
7. Special packing will be required by the insurance company for piano, art
pieces, etc. (And also separate deductible).
8. Cameras and Jewelry are not covered by insurance policy unless you
coordinate with your insurance company.
9. In case of stolen items or damage, you can not file a complaint with the
insurance company unless:
A. This item is on the shipping company’s list.
B. This item is declared on customs papers.
10. Let the moving company pack you belongings, the breakable. It will be easier for you in the long run to file a claim with the insurance company if the moving company did the packing.
11. In case you file a claim for stolen or damaged items, The following documents are required:
A. Original receipt of that item.
B. Shipping company packing list.
C. Bill of landing of your shipment.
D. Appraisal by the insurance company for the damage.
E. Customs declaration. (The item must be on it)
F. Copy of your policy report.
G. Insurance policy issued by the insurance company.
H. If you found out about the damage or stolen items while the shipment was still at the port, you have to file a complaint with the port authority and submit it to the insurance company
CPA Corner
Israel-US-CPA is proud to announce that its Israel-based member, Haklai & Sons & Co. has been selected by Toshav-Hozer center as its tax and accounting partner. Toshav-Hozer is the #1 organization Israelis abroad turn to in planning their return to Israel. It selects its partners carefully so that people returning to Israel get the best advice possible to help the transition. Haklai has been is business since 1941 and provides a wide variety of accounting and tax services to individuals and companies.
"In dealing with Olim and returning Israelis, it is crucial to understand their home environment as well as that of Israel," says Israel Halberstein, founder of Toshav Hozer, and himself a veteran returning Israeli. "Only by looking at the tax and accounting environment in both countries can you provide the most effective solution for people moving here. The solutions we provide leverage the benefits available from both countries and make a real difference to the bottom line and to the financial security of people moving here."
Israel-US-CPA partners with reputable firms that have established a solid reputation over the course of decades, and which possess a strong track record of support for Israel. Selwyn Gerber & Co. is the U.S. partner of Israeluscpa.com. Having established the firm 35 years ago, Mr. Gerber is on the board of The Jewish Foundation of Los Angeles, which currently manages charitable assets of $700 million. Mr. Gerber serves as chair of the organization's Israel Grants Committee.
As Israel-US-CPA is also an advertising sponsor of Nefesh B' Nefesh*, it now provides a solution for all groups moving to Israel.
While Israel-US-CPA serves people seeking to move to Israel, it also provides services to Israeli entities and individuals doing business and investing aboard. For more information, please visit our website www.israeluscpa.com
* Nothing in this email should be seen as an endorsement by NBN of our services
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