Yesterday was “container day” for us in Bulgaria! We met Plamen, the supervisor from our handling company, at 8.30 (he was 15 mins early) at the customs broker’s (KAM) office at Svishtov Customs area. The paperwork was quickly and efficiently done (and we had a good strong cup of coffee) and then a quick walk to the Customs Office proper.

About 9.15 the customs officer apologised for the delay because of a “system” problem, but nevertheless by 9.45 we were outside at the container for the inspection.  It turned out that the inspection only really involved watching someone cut the steel seal on the container door!

And with a cheerful “ciao!” the customs lady was gone and we were free and clear – no additional charges, no import duty, just a 40ft container and 269 packages to get to our little village and unload!

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your point of view), Plamen had arranged for the unloading crew to arrive at our place at 12 noon, so Toby and I did a few chores in Svishtov before we headed home. Well to say we were impressed was an understatement.  The five man crew took 3 hours to unload the container, with only 3 five minute breaks.

So, the next week will see us trying to fit in various items of furniture, and then proably after that using every spare moment to unpack a box or two and find a home (or homes) for their contents.

Given the administrative problems that we had experienced with Allied Pickfords in the UAE we were genuinely surprised and really delighted with the professionalism, courtesy and cheerful efficiency of Plamen Borisov and his crew from Orbit Limited and we would recommend them unconditionally.

Now, I can think of many things to do with the high grade carton cardboard – but does anybody want a mountain of bubble wrap or protective foam wrapping 🙂