Tips for Planning an International Move

When moving out of the country (international move, you want to make sure you are more prepared and be very organized to avoid any complications that may happen.  Here are some solutions to make your international move a success.

Hire a Professional International Moving Company

When you do an international move, your items will most likely be shipped via the ocean.  Your international moving company will place your items in an overseas container, which will be loaded on a ship by crane, usually with other containers.  There is a lot of shifting that will occur with the containers, so you want to make sure they are professionally packed to ensure they arrive in one piece.  Make sure to find out from the moving company, the amount of experience they have in international shipping and insurance options they have to offer for your move. 

Keep an open Line of communication

Make sure that you have some way to be reached during transit, or have a contact person for communication that your moving company can reach in case of emergency while you are in transit.  It’s good to keep a cell phone, landline, and have internet connection, that you will be available to communicate back and forth.

Make sure to be organized before your international move

If you have a full home to pack, it’s a good idea to be as organized as possible.  Inventory labels/Furniture labels ca can be used to identify contents of items, whether items are to be shipped or to go into a designated storage area.  Make sure you always (VERY IMPORTANT) keep necessary items with you such as passports, important documents, credit cards, wallet, money, medicine, expensive jewelry, etc.  Also remember most moving company will not package or ship hazardous items.

Allow yourself enough time for moving and travels

Try to schedule ahead of time with your moving company and plan your flight accordingly leaving enough time for transit.  Remember you may have to get medical clearance before entering another country for you or your children(or animals).

Make sure to do some research of the country you are moving to

Every country has different rules.  Make sure you know the rules for shipping and receiving when it comes to receiving your goods at your new destination like if you need to be present at time of delivery. Make sure you know what documents you will need to receive clearance from customs.  Know where you are going as far as your destination, and have a contact person, someone at your new location who may be able to help you.