I figured you were probably in Charlotte since you are both MBAs If not Charlotte, then definitely the Triangle hehe. (I grew up in Raleigh).

I'm not sure I would recommend my shipping company. They estimated the arrival of our furniture at 4-6 weeks after departure, and it took four months The one good thing about them though was that they did offer a binding estimate, so as long as we didn't go over the estimated weight of our shipment, it wouldn't cost more than they estimate. Make sure you get a binding estimate based on weight.

The dog is really a problem. We're still waiting on her. It'll end up costing about $5K (give or take) all told. Definitely google the AQIS importing dogs and cats from the US. There is a website that is really helpful from AQIS; very comprehensive information about timelines and what needs to be done. It's a bureaucratic nightmare!!!