Moving internationally can be an incredible challenge – you have all the normal stressors you’d find in a local, regional or national move, as well as a number of other challenges involved with moving to a completely different country. However, organization can help ensure that the process is as smooth as possible, reducing your stress and letting you focus on things that matter more. Here are 10 of the most important tips for organizing your international move.
- Cut Down on Stuff
An international move differs greatly from even moving across country. This is particularly true when it comes to the costs of moving your belongings. Decide what you can’t live without, and either sell off, donate or store everything else.
- Know What’s Allowed in Your Destination Country
Some countries are very similar to the US in terms of what they’ll allow you to bring in. However, others are very different. Do some research ahead of time and know what your soon-to-be home nation will allow you to bring so that you don’t hit any unanticipated snags during the moving process.
- Research the New Country
Well before the move, make sure you do some research on the country where you’ll be moving. This goes well beyond knowing what they allow you to ship. Research the culture, the language, the shopping and dining areas where you’ll be living, and more.
- Get Your Supplies Ahead of Time
You’re going to need moving supplies – have them in hand well before the time comes to start packing. Make sure you have boxes, tape, box cutters, packing material and anything else you’ll need.
- Choose the Right Company
No international move is going to happen unaided. You simply can’t do it. Make sure you research your options and then choose a company with a long history of successfully helping their clients move internationally.
- Pack by Room
Don’t just throw your belongings into boxes – pack each room as you go. Clearly label each box as to where it goes in your new home.
- Don’t Overload
Avoid the temptation to cram as much stuff into a box as you can. Keep things light enough that the boxes can be moved easily.
- Use Checklists
Checklists are invaluable during any move, but particularly during an international one. Make checklists for everything, including pre-move cleaning, packing supplies, the actual packing process and everything in between.
- Immunize
You’re moving to a new country, so chances are good that you and your family will need immunizations before you go. Know what they are and get them ahead of time.
- Get Your Passport
You’re going to need passports. There’s no getting around it. What’s more, it can take a surprisingly long time to get one. Get started as early as possible.
With these tips, your international move should go much more smoothly.