International moves can be a real challenge for most people. Check and double-check your items to make sure everything goes smoothly. Careful planning will make sure that there will be no surprises on your move day. You can use this international moving guide below and make your international move a helpful and favorable one.

1. List of all the items that you would like to move

If you have items to put into boxes (clothes, books, toys, etc), giving a rough estimate on how many boxes you would need would be helpful. To assist your mover in giving you an accurate quotation, they will need estimated dimensions and sizes of each piece of furniture as well as your boxes and any other items. Having all of this information at the beginning of your move will save any extra charges if you add items later on in the moving process.

2. Compare first, then pick an international moving company

International moving companies know all the ins and outs regarding international relocation. Make sure you receive quotes from all available moving companies before choosing one. Accredited moving companies that we deal with are all audited to comply with international moving standards and service. They will also provide insurance coverage. Don’t wait too long before starting your moving company search, and plan your move a few months in advance so you can be sure all documentation (i.e. customs), is sent through on time. Ask the moving companies about their experience with shipping to the country of destination, as they have vast knowledge and they are equipped to assist you.

3. Prepare all of the necessary documents

Wherever you are planning on moving to, you may need to obtain a visa when working or residing abroad for an extended period of time. Depending on the country of choice, you might also need to get a new national passport made. To ensure you get all the right documentation, make sure to contact the country’s consulate or embassy. Also ask them which documents will be required (e.g. birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc) for your visa. Double check if the visa you are getting is the correct one for your stay.

4. Storage

It is often a good idea to have a good look at your belongings to make sure that you only bring the necessary items to your new location. For example, electronic devices that use a different voltage won’t work at your destination, so just check if the voltages match. Some people choose not to transport bulky furniture and use a storage facility instead. Most international moving companies also provide storage space either at origin or destination. In order to save money, ask for a quote on both options as you may find your self delaying your shipment at Origin in order to save money.

5. Items you shouldn’t pack

Be aware that shipping internationally can take weeks to months for everything to reach the destination. To make sure you will not run into problems, you should always pack all documentation and medication separately so you’ve got everything covered once you arrive. Your mover can provide you with a ‘priority carton’ that can be loaded at the end of your shipment or easily noted and accessible for when it arrives. Always refer to your movers customs guidelines for the country that you are moving too, as this will give you all details on the items which can and can not move into the country. You do not want to be held up with customs or government authorities and charged an extraordinary amount if you are not prepared with this information beforehand. Doing so will also allow you to gain a better knowledge of duties and taxes of the country you are moving to. Check out our helpful article for all items you shouldn’t pack.

6. Moving with Children

If you are moving internationally with children, then you should make sure to find a fitting school for them. Your local embassy can assist you in finding school information. There are also relocation services offered by many moving companies. Contact the school to find out about facilities, language issues and class sizes.

7. Shipping a car

You should find out if it’s a good idea or not to import your car to your destination country. In most cases there are certain import permits required, duties and taxes that should be paid when shipping a car. Also, find out if your driver’s license is valid in your destination country. Your international moving company or your embassy can help you figure this all out.