Planning an international move involves careful coordination of multiple elements. From securing visas to scheduling shipments, early preparation helps lock in competitive rates from long distance moving services and helps create a clear timeline for your relocation. By breaking down this complex process into manageable steps, you can experience an easy relocation to your new home. Here are the key elements for a successful international move.
6 Steps for Planning an International Relocation
Getting your international move right means completing important tasks at the right time. These practical steps will help you stay organized and reduce the stress of moving abroad.
1. Research International Moving
Successful international relocations require thorough research into several critical areas. Begin by investigating visa requirements, work permit regulations and import rules for your destination country. Pay close attention to areas that could affect your move, such as local restrictions on household goods, vehicles and pets.
2. Start Decluttering and Begin Inventory Management
Decluttering provides an opportunity to save money on shipping costs and downsize before the move. Separate items into categories for shipping, selling, donation or disposal. Keep an inventory of the items you intend to take with you, as well as other belongings set aside for storage (or to be appropriately disposed of).
3. Understand Your Moving Costs With an Upfront Estimate
A reliable moving partner will evaluate your belongings to determine shipping volume, and provide you with a detailed cost breakdown based on your destination. The assessment ensures accurate pricing with no surprises so you can plan your budget effectively. You can learn more about pricing factors in our international moving costs guide.
4. Pack Items and Utilize Secure Storage
Professional packing services are a time-saver during an international move. Your movers will carefully pack all items using high-quality, robust materials and reinforced crating options for fragile or valuable possessions. And upon arrival, if you’re not ready to receive all items immediately, your moving team can help with storage in a secure, climate-controlled facility.
5. Consider Shipping Logistics and Compliance
Your shipping method will depend primarily on the volume of your items and how quickly you need them delivered. Sea freight is an excellent choice for shipping large volumes of goods, while air freight is more suitable for a smaller number of items with a more urgent deadline. Your international moving company can advise you on the best options during the planning stage, along with offering guidance on customs, duties requirements and so on.
6. Plan for Final Delivery and Unpacking
With a delivery window from your moving team, you can make sure that your new property is ready (including setting up utilities). International moving services can handle unpacking at the destination, and you can arrange a later delivery for those items held in storage.
Leading International Moving Services
National Van Lines is a trusted provider of international moving services for residential and commercial relocations. We provide everything you need for an overseas move, including packing, transportation, storage and more. Call 800-323-1962 or request a free moving quote.
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