Are you gearing up for an international move but feeling unsure about the best way to approach this significant life change? Although the task may seem daunting, international relocations can be incredibly simplified with the right knowledge and preparation.
As you start the journey to your overseas move, it’s important to have a game plan to complete each step with purpose and in a timely fashion. Looking for some extra assistance as you approach moving day? Discover our 11 easy steps to planning your international move!
One of the most important ways to prepare for your move like a pro is to get started early. There’s no such thing as planning too far in advance when you’re completing an international relocation. As soon as you can, begin the preparations for your move; this way, you can be sure to have plenty of time to get everything done, and you won’t need to rush and stress through the process. Plus, many aspects of international moving require plenty of time for processing, such as documentation and visas. Avoid any potential issues by allowing ample time to accomplish each step.
As you get ready for your upcoming relocation, finances are an incredibly important aspect to consider. Before you finalize your decision to move to a different country, make sure to thoroughly assess the cost of living in this area and how this will work with your financial situation—especially if you will need to find a new job in your new country. Anticipating the finances of your relocation plays a crucial part in being ready for your move. Plus, doing this in advance provides you with time to save money as needed.
When you’re completing an international relocation, finding the right movers can be positively transformative. By having a professional international moving company on your side throughout your move, you can trust that you will minimize your stress and maximize your convenience. Moving companies offer services for packing, moving, and storage needs, allowing you to take some of the responsibilities off of your plate and access expert assistance.
Understandably, travel for an international move is a lot more demanding than for other moves. To ensure that you are able to travel on your desired dates, be sure to book the transportation and accommodations you need with plenty of time to spare. Booking in advance will offer more flexibility, and it can even end up landing you more affordable rates. Figure out the travel logistics in advance for the smoothest process possible.
No matter where you go, one thing you will always need to take care of is your health. As you get ready for your move, take healthcare into consideration, and understand the healthcare options in your new country. Find out if your current insurance provider offers international coverage. If they don’t, you will have time to find an alternative if you started early on this part of the process. Additionally, look into the best way to obtain any prescriptions you require, as this might take some extra research. Having a clear picture of your healthcare situation in your new country is a vital part of your move.
To lawfully live in a different country, obtaining the necessary documentation is non-negotiable. Making sure to do all the needed paperwork should be one of the top priorities ahead of your relocation. Research the specific requirements for your destination country, and verify what type of visa is required for your stay—whether you’re working, studying, or planning to live there permanently. Again, time is of the essence with this part of the process, as it can take up to six months to obtain certain visas. No matter your circumstances, thoroughly assess the options and determine the right steps forward for you.
Before relocating to a new country, take the proper health precautions by getting all the suggested and required immunizations. Every country has different immunizations that are required or recommended, so be sure to find out which ones you need and make appointments within the proper time frame to receive them. In the same vein, it’s advisable to be up to date on all of your immunizations and to get a general checkup done before your move to ensure you’re in good health for your travels.
When moving overseas, it’s highly likely that you won’t be able to—or even want to—bring everything you own. Depending on how long you will be abroad, you could opt for storage solutions, but a more effective solution is to complete a thorough declutter of your space. This task encourages you to eliminate any items you no longer use, want, or need, freeing up extra room for the things you actually need and offering a tidier home. To fully declutter, divide your belongings into categories: donate, sell, trash, and keep. Depending on the quality and condition of your items, you can choose which option is best. This step will effectively reduce the amount of time and energy needed to spend on packing for your move.
As your items travel to their new home, they will undoubtedly have a long journey. During this process, it’s highly likely that these items will be jostled around and at risk for damage without the proper protection. To mitigate the risk of your items arriving broken or damaged, pack your items with ample padding between each thing, specifically for fragile belongings. Bubble wrap and packing paper offer great protection, but you can also opt for items you already have such as blankets and towels. When wrapped in these soft fabrics, your belongings can be guarded against damage. Additionally, make sure your items are concisely packed in order to limit movement while in transit. If your items can’t jostle around, they are much less likely to sustain damage.
Before you relocate, make sure you notify all important parties about your move and change of address. This list includes the postal service, the Social Security Administration, the IRS, your bank, your insurance provider, your healthcare providers, your landlord or realtor, and any utility companies or subscription services. However, this isn’t a comprehensive list, and your own personal list will vary depending on your needs.
Finally, before moving day, be sure to complete a final check of your entire to-do list and schedule that you created at the beginning of the process. Check in with any necessary parties, such as your movers, to make sure everything will be going according to plan. Doing this can decrease the chance of any last-minute stressors or miscommunications.
Although international relocations can be a huge undertaking, you can handle the process smoothly and successfully. Ready to complete your easiest relocation ever with the help of a reliable Chicago international moving company? Count on none other than Allied International. As the top source of international relocation services for over 136 years, we provide our solutions in over 37 countries around the world. With our expert services, you can trust that your relocation will be as streamlined as possible. Request a quote via our online form, or call us at (877) 685-0355 for more information on our solutions!
We carefully and methodically pack and crate your items, ensuring their safe and secure arrival. We take pride in the expert packing, crating, and handling of your possessions.
Our aim is to have your belongings safely and quickly transported to your new location, with a focus on customer service and your utmost satisfaction.
We provide you with a personal moving coordinator. You can check in any time you wish, connecting to the same person who will be very familiar with your particular custom moving plan.
