Moving from one house or apartment to another is a challenging and exhausting process. Moving internationally… that is another greater challenge in itself. Relocating from one country to another pressures you into thoughts you never thought you would have. How much is it going to cost? Downsize? What’s the best shipping method? All of your questions are going to be answered. Right here. Right now.
Prepare your identity documents
Make sure you have all your necessary documents on hand and in order! And make sure to have those important documents on your carry-on! Keep an electronic copy of all your documents, just in case.
It’s always good to have more than one copy of your documents. Leave a copy with a family member, or on your file, or in your storage. Documents can be easy to lose and you’ll be in safer hands knowing that you have copies of them.
Start small
Take a deep breath. Inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Ready? Simplify. If you’re anticipating your move to be short term and you’re going to be moving alone, you’ll probably have minimal packing and sending. Sending and moving boxes back and forth, especially if your stay is short term, is not worth the hassle or the money. Limit to items that can fit in your luggage and get bigger and easily replaceable items when you’re there.
Research
Find as much information you can find about the country you’re relocating to. Is the weather hot all year round? Will you need all four seasons’ worth of clothing? Will you have access to essential supplies and comforts?
A great example would be medication. Medication strength and availability vary overseas. So, bringing medication with you, as long as it’s legally allowed, might be important.
Keep in mind, every product and services offered in another country differ. Always do your research.
Check your budget
If you’re planning on moving internationally long term, checking where finance and needs will play a big part in deciding what to take and leave behind with you. If your relocation is due to company relocation, chances are you’ll be given more financial leeway. If this is the case your financial burden will be taken off your hands.
If you are moving abroad on your own accord, create a budget. Figure out how much you want to spend when moving abroad, items you will need to feel comfortable, and what will be more cost-efficient for you to buy there.
Whether you’re moving for business reasons or on your own terms you can always get a quote from moving companies and this will help you set a budget.
Shipping items when moving overseas
Divide belongings by what can wait a few weeks. International flights allow you to take two suitcases with a weight limit on each. Figure out what are the items and belongings you need to take with you. Once you’ve narrowed that list, divide what are the items you don’t need for about a month or two.
When moving to another country you’ll come to the realization that some of your possessions are unnecessary. Once you’ve analyzed all the unnecessary items consider donating them, selling them, or throwing them away. Getting rid of unnecessary items that you haven’t used or don’t have any value to you will help you downsize a lot.
Make sure you have plenty of time to go through your items so that you can be efficient and objective. Create an inventory of your belongings of what you do keep, which will hold the international movers accountable for anything lost in transit.
Choosing an international mover
There are many moving companies that will help with international move. Look for a company with lots of experience. This is key and it matters when it’s your items that have to navigate through customs. Ask the movers whether they will provide you with tracking information. It’s reassuring to know the movement of your belongings at all times.
Fact check: the mover with the lowest prices might not always be the best choice. Research your movers, or mover of your choice. Ask questions, check reviews, and make sure you’re comfortable with the mover’s claim and dispute resolution processes.
Research public transit
Public transportation is your best friend. When relocating overseas you may not have access to your own personal vehicle right away.
If you or someone you’re moving with has a disability look for housing with reliable public transportation close by. It might even be beneficial to move into an area with fast and reliable public transportation. It’s always better to stay ahead of the game.
Find your embassy
When you’re planning to relocate, figure out how close or far your embassy is. If you lose your passport, if you want to vote, if you want to register your child, or if you just need help, knowing where your embassy is will be a big asset.
Socialize
Moving to a country where you don’t know anyone can be mentally,emotionally, and physically stressful. Make time to go out, meet the people, and get to know the culture. Socializing will help with adapting and assimilating to the country and their culture. Eventually, you might be able to find people who were or are in the same position as you!
Texas Movers Group has you covered
Moving to a new country is an exciting and overwhelming experience. Whether you’re moving by yourself, with a partner, or with your family, figuring out how and where to start is a stressful moment. There will be setbacks and unexpected challenges but moving your items doesn’t have to be part of the equation.
Texas Movers Group is here to make sure that your move is done right. The first time. Moving across to the other side of the world doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Texas Movers Group team of expert movers and customer service staff can help you unload and take some of that stress off for you.
Contact Texas Movers Group today to set your international relocation in motion.
