Rapid, sanctions-related relocation of a German diplomat from Russia to Berlin and onward to Bogota

Due to political events (the war in Ukraine), a German diplomat was suddenly expelled from Russia. The departure had to occur within a week. The diplomat contacted IPA by phone, and the move was organized in a very short time.

The main challenge was to securely and efficiently organize the entire relocation within one week. Given the geopolitical tensions, a safe transport route had to be determined. Due to the short notice, temporary storage of the diplomat’s belongings in Berlin was necessary, as he had not yet secured a residence. Additionally, IPA handled the de-registration of the diplomat’s vehicle.

1. Quick assessment and quote preparation
On the same day, a quote was provided following the assessment of the belongings in St. Petersburg. The following day, IPA received the official contract for the relocation with a local partner company.

2. Transport organization
A security-vetted and experienced packing crew was assigned. A sufficiently large truck was booked to transport the belongings. Thanks to IPA’s strong local partner network, available capacity was secured despite high demand.

3. Customs export and route planning:
The truck transported the belongings and the vehicle to the Belarus-Poland border. There, a Polish truck took over the trailer, as trucks with Russian license plates were no longer allowed to enter the EU.

4. Import customs clearance and storage in Berlin
Import customs clearance was handled directly at the Dreilinden customs office in Berlin. After clearance, the belongings were transported to IPA’s storage facility near Berlin, as the diplomat had not yet secured a residence in the city.

5. Vehicle de-registration and subsequent transport to Bogotá:
IPA handled the de-registration of the diplomatic vehicle. The belongings were stored for several months until the diplomat was reassigned to Bogotá. IPA was contracted to manage the sea transport to Colombia.

The move was carried out smoothly and extremely quickly, despite the very short notice. All items arrived safely and intact in Berlin during a time of geopolitical tension. The diplomat was so satisfied with the service that he also entrusted IPA with his move to Bogotá.