The Do’s & Don’ts of International Moving

Moving to a new country is no doubt an exhilarating adventure, and offers the promise of not just tons of new experiences, but a fresh start. However, when heading into an international move, it’s essential to anticipate challenges and complexities that might come with such a big transition. 

Understanding the do’s and don’ts of international moving will not just minimize your stress and keep your transition smooth, but will let you navigate any obstacles confidently and effectively. Whether relocating for work or educational opportunities or even if you just want a change of scenery, using these guidelines will help you navigate your move successfully. 

 

What to Do When Moving Internationally

The do’s of international moving all revolve around research, planning, and expecting the unexpected. Don’t forget – having some help along the way will only help to make your move easier. 

 

• Research Your New Home: Before embarking on an international move, make sure to gather as much information as possible about your new country – especially if you’ve never visited before. Research its cultural norms, customs, and social and political dynamics. You should also look into its healthcare system and the general cost and quality of living there. Learning the language ahead of time will also benefit you greatly, and you should at least get a head start on doing so before you move to have a basic foundation for getting around in your day-to-day life. 

 

• Start Planning Well in Advance: International moves require a lot of planning due to all of the different variables and logistics involved in them. Start planning your move at least 6 months in advance, and lock down your moving date as soon as possible if booking international movers or your own flights. This will give you plenty of time to lock down housing or transportation, arrange your visas, and to declutter your home, and pack your things effectively. 

 

•  Hire Professional International Movers: Using a professional international moving company with plenty of experience in the field and many successful international moves under their belts will give you the smoothest and most seamless overseas move possible. Having experienced professionals there to guide you through packing and moving things overseas, as well as navigating customs and delivering items safely to your new home will save you countless time and stress. 

 

• Declutter & Organize Your Home: Moving internationally is an opportunity to declutter and downsize. Sort through your things and only take essential items and those that hold significant sentimental value. Sell, give away, or donate the rest of your items. This will not only lighten your load, reduce moving and moving costs, and will let you have even more of a fresh start in your new country. 

 

• Collect Important Documents: Arrange visas (and passports if you don’t already have one), as well as important medical records, identification, academic transcripts, and anything else you might need and not be able to access readily overseas. Make sure your paperwork is up to date and organized for a seamless transition. 

 

• Notify Relevant Parties: Don’t forget to let your current or future employers, schools,  banks, credit card companies, loan providers, healthcare providers, and postal services of your relocation.

 

The Don’ts of International Moving

Now that we’ve covered everything you should do in preparation for your international move, let’s go over the common mistakes or pitfalls to avoid before your relocation. 

 

• Procrastinate: Never leave your planning to the last minute – especially for an international move. Heading overseas requires a lot of planning and careful preparation, and a lot of documents or other aspects need weeks or even months to process. Avoid leaving things to the last minute to ensure a seamless transition and to ensure you make it overseas at your desired time. 

 

• Overpack: This is a common pitfall, and we’ve all been guilty of it! However, when dealing with such a large move, it’s imperative to get rid of as much as you can before an international move. Moving costs can escalate quickly, even when using the most affordable moving company. Only pack what you truly need, value, and can’t replace upon arrival. 

 

• Ignore Customs Regulations: Different countries have varying customs regulations and import restrictions that apply to everyone. Ignoring these rules can result in delays, fines, or confiscation of your items. Research customs and important requirements for your country and follow them closely. 

 

• Ignore Culture Shock: Even if you’re moving to a country close by or one that has a culture that closely mimics that of your own, never assume that there won’t be any differences for you to adapt to, or that you won’t experience culture shock in some form. Never assume that everything will be familiar and keep yourself open to embracing learning experiences and new customs in your new country. 

 

• Underestimate Costs: Always create a budget for an international move that leaves a lot of room for wiggle room cost-wise. International moves can be expensive, especially with not just moving costs, just visa fees, housing deposits, your own travel expenses, and more. Always expect the unexpected and be financially prepared. 

 

• Neglect Existing Relationships: Keeping in regular contact with family, friends, and loved ones is key to helping you settle in and getting to know your new country. Having emotional support will keep you happy, open, and will give you an outlet to share your experiences or any stresses you’re feeling. 

 

How to Find the Best Chicago International Movers

No matter where you’re headed, moving internationally is a transformative experience that requires a lot of planning and preparation to pull off successfully. By following these guidelines, you’ll hopefully avoid common mistakes or pitfalls that could befall you and will have a smoother and more enjoyable moving experience. After all, having a smooth move will only make settling in and exploring your new country that much easier. 

Looking for the best international moving companies for your move? Look no further than Allied International. Our affordable services are exactly what you need for the easiest and smoothest move possible. Contact us today to learn more or for a free quote!