From Mumbai to the Middle East: How Interem Relocations is responding to the rise of global mobility

Globalization has encouraged more people and businesses to move across borders, driving demand for comprehensive services. relocation services. Expatriates and businesses need these services for a smooth transition. Interim movespart of the 450 million dollars Freight transport systems groupsees more business opportunities as people and companies try to take advantage of them. global market opportunities.

In India, the highest business volumes are recorded in Delhi/NCR, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Mumbai. In an interaction with ET Online, Vishal Agarwal, Group CEO, Interem Relocations, says the growth global mobility has boosted the use of relocation services. It notes that these offerings go beyond packing and moving furniture and household items. Edited excerpts:

ET: Interem has expanded its presence since its inception. What strategic decisions were key to this growth?
Vishal Agarwal: Interem’s growth strategy has focused on two aspects: regional expansion and establishing itself as a leader in the relocation industry. Being part of the Freight Systems Group allowed Interem, which was established in 1995, to leverage the infrastructure in shipping, freight forwarding and warehousing. Our business segments grew at a double-digit rate compared to last year; for example, office relocations grew by 19% and international imports and exports by 14%. Becoming a shareholder in Harmony, a well-established relocation services network, significantly increased Interem’s global reach, as it is a global network of locally owned relocation companies with a presence in over 60 countries. This solidified our position as a leading relocation provider in the Middle East and India, and made us a global service provider. Being part of the Harmony network also allowed us to serve a broader range of clients, from families to large corporations with complex relocation needs.

ET: How is Interem different from other relocation service providers?
VIRGINIA: Interem goes beyond basic moving services. We conduct extensive consultations to understand individual and corporate relocation policies, creating customized plans that fit specific requirements. This includes everything from pet relocation assistance to finding suitable schools for children.

Our offerings are modular, allowing customers to choose the specific services they need, from packing and shipping to visa assistance and installation services. This prevents customers from paying for services they don’t need.
ET: When you say beyond basic moving services, what do you mean?
VIRGINIA: We have cultivated strong relationships with local customs agents, immigration specialists, and cultural experts. We leverage this network to provide clients with access to local expertise and cultural insights. This helps individuals and families adjust to their new surroundings more easily. Our local partners can provide guidance on everything from how to navigate public transportation systems to understanding local customs and etiquette. This personalized approach helps reduce culture shock and ensure a more positive relocation experience.

Interem offers intercultural training programs to help expatriate employees and their families adapt to a new culture. We also work with local schools to offer language immersion programs for children.

We also use online tracking tools to provide customers with real-time updates on the status of their belongings. This transparency allows them to have peace of mind throughout the moving process.

ET: Why is Interem optimistic about the Indian and Middle Eastern markets?
VIRGINIA: Both India and the Middle East are growing economies that are experiencing a significant influx of international talent, creating strong demand for outplacement services. In addition, companies in these regions are increasingly looking to diversify their workforces.

India, for example, is a major hub for information technology and business services, attracting large numbers of foreign workers. Countries in the Middle East are also increasingly seeking skilled professionals to support their economic diversification efforts.

We also serve small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to relocate their key talents. To achieve this, we develop flexible and scalable service packages that are tailored to the specific needs of these companies.

ET: What are some unique challenges and opportunities in these regions?
VIRGINIA: Both regions have a rich diversity of customs, traditions and languages. Addressing these complexities requires sensitivity and a deep understanding of local nuances. We ensure that our staff and partners possess this intercultural competence to effectively serve clients. We employ multilingual staff and interpreters and provide translated materials and resources to clients.

Infrastructure development can vary considerably in these regions. Logistics can be complex, especially in remote areas. Traffic congestion, limited road networks and underdeveloped infrastructure can present challenges.

IS: Sustainability Environmental responsibility and safety are becoming increasingly important in the logistics sector. How does Interem address these concerns?
VIRGINIA: We use biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials. This reduces reliance on non-renewable resources and minimises landfill waste. Optimising packaging techniques and using the right box size for each item can minimise wasted space during transport. This reduces the amount of packaging materials needed and leads to more efficient fuel consumption during shipping, which reduces carbon emissions. We work with transport companies that use fuel-efficient vehicles and invest in alternative fuel sources, such as biofuels or electric vehicles.

We encourage sustainable moving practices, such as electronic documentation, to minimize reliance on paper for contracts, forms, and other moving-related documents. This reduces paper consumption and its associated environmental impact. We also advise clients on environmentally friendly options for disposing of unwanted items during the move, such as donation or responsible recycling.

ET: Global trade policies and regulations can have a significant impact on logistics operations. How does Interem comply with them?
VIRGINIA: We have a dedicated team of experienced global trade compliance specialists – people with expertise in customs regulations, international trade law and logistics. We constantly monitor the rules and procedures in all countries in which we operate. Interem is affiliated with FIDI, the largest global alliance of international moving and relocation companies. All FIDI-affiliated companies constantly share knowledge and information related to specific destinations, which helps us stay up to date.

We work with experienced partners in each country. These partners have a deep understanding of local regulations, customs clearance procedures, and the nuances of interacting with local customs authorities. They guide us through the necessary documentation and ensure efficient customs clearance.

We keep customers informed about regulatory requirements, customs delays and associated costs. This transparency builds trust with customers and helps us manage expectations.

ET: Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly finding applications in logistics operations. What impact do you foresee this having in the next five to ten years?
VIRGINIA: AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data on traffic patterns, weather conditions, fuel efficiency, vehicle capacities, and even road closures in real time to dynamically optimize delivery routes. This can lead to shorter delivery times, lower fuel consumption, and lower transportation costs. Additionally, these systems can consider weather conditions and reroute deliveries to ensure driver safety and on-time arrival. AI-powered robots can handle repetitive tasks in warehouses, such as packing, loading, and unloading trucks. This can free up human workers to focus on more complex tasks, such as overseeing operations and ensuring quality control.

Machine learning (ML) can analyse data from vehicle and equipment sensors to predict maintenance issues. This proactive approach can prevent breakdowns, minimise downtime and optimise maintenance schedules. Predictive maintenance can also improve safety as it can help prevent accidents caused by equipment failure. ML can help reduce the risk of stock-outs, which can lead to lost sales and customer dissatisfaction, as well as excess stock, which takes up valuable storage space and financial resources.