What Is IAM? What the International Association of Movers Means for Your Move from India

Aarambh GMS_ Moving Across Borders

IAM is the International Association of Movers, a global trade association connecting 2,000+ moving and forwarding companies in 170+ countries through a shared Code of Ethics, a searchable directory, a dispute process and training. Membership is a strong trust signal, but it is not a licence, insurance or a guarantee.

Aarambh GMS (Aarambh International Mobility Services) has joined IAM. Here is what that means for you, in plain language.

Why International Moves Need a Network

International moves are a relay of companies in different countries. An association gives them shared rules, peer vetting and a way to settle disputes.

How a Company Joins IAM

A company must have operated for at least a year, supply its business registration licence, get sponsor letters from two current members, and then be open to member review for 30 days.

What IAM Members Agree To and Get

Code of Ethics. Members commit to deal fairly and honestly, be truthful in communications, honour agreements, pay their obligations, follow applicable laws and not compete unfairly. An Ethics Council of volunteers oversees it.

Receivable Protection Program. It helps members recover unpaid invoices and flags problem debtors through an alert list. IAM says it has returned over US$6.5 million since 2015. It protects members, not customers directly, but a financially healthy partner network means fewer stalled shipments.

Also included: the IAMX directory, a dispute system aiming for resolution in about 30 days, staff training and country guides.

IAM Member, IAMX Validated or IAM Trusted?

LevelWhat it meansHow to check
IAM memberAccepted after the vetting aboveIAMX directory listing
IAMX ValidatedMember uploaded proof of licences, year established and certificatesValidated profile
IAM TrustedExtra requirements, including Code adherence and good standingStatus in IAMX
ITMSIndividual employee trained and assessedAsk your coordinator

IAM vs FIDI and Regulators

FIDI is a separate federation whose FAIM certification involves an independent audit every three years. Governments and customs decide legality. Many good movers hold several credentials.

Moving Into India: Customs Basics

Rules change, so confirm with your mover. FIDI’s guide (Jan 2024) and IAM’s India guide (June 2026) describe:

  • Documents: passport, valued list, packing list, baggage declaration, bill of lading.
  • Conditions: typically two or more years overseas, and shipping within one month of arrival.
  • Restrictions: vehicles are tightly limited, and some items are prohibited.

How an International Move with Aarambh GMS Works

  1. Enquiry: you share routes, dates and volume.
  2. Survey and written quote: clear pricing, no hidden charges.
  3. Documentation: export and destination paperwork, with visa and immigration assistance if needed.
  4. Packing and inventory: trained crews through our packing and unpacking solutions.
  5. Transit and tracking: by air or sea as suits you.
  6. Destination delivery: clearance, delivery and unpacking through partners.
  7. Settling in: home search, school search and pet relocation if needed.

Also see our residential moves, corporate relocations and secure storage.

What IAM Is Not

It is not a regulator or insurer, and it does not set prices. Its financial protection is for members. Get insurance (all-risks, declared at replacement cost) and a written quote.

Check Any Mover in Five Minutes

  • Find them in the IAMX directory.
  • Look for validation or IAMTrusted status.
  • Ask who manages your move and who delivers at the destination.
  • Get the quote, inventory and insurance terms in writing.

Where Aarambh GMS Fits

We are a new company, led by Ruchi Rai and a team with 20+ years in relocation, serving Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai an Hyderabad . We joined IAM to be measured against an outside standard and to be easy to verify.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IAM a government body?

No. It is an industry association and does not issue licences.

How do I verify an IAM member?

Search the IAMX directory by name or location.

Does IAM membership guarantee a safe move?

No. It works best alongside a written quote and insurance.

Does IAM compensate customers?

No. Its protection is for members, so rely on your contract and insurance.

Planning an International Move?

Talk to our team through the contact page, or reach us directly:

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