Moving is never easy, and it can be especially challenging if you’re planning an international move. You not only need to plan all the details, but you must also monitor that everything goes according to plan. With that in mind, here is a 5-step roadmap that will guide you on how to take the right steps in the right order.
1. Update passports and get visas.
Your family members will need to update their passports. In most instances, you will probably need an international visa, as almost every country in the world requires foreign residents or workers to get a visa. Ask the country’s embassy official what specific requirements you need to meet. Often you may need to visit the embassy in person to show your personal documentation before you get a visa. This list may include academic certifications, marriage certifications, and birth certifications. Also, make sure you get the correct visa for the specific reason you are going to the other country. For instance, if you are getting a job in that other country, you may need a specific visa for that industry.
2. Choose an international moving company.
Select an international moving company that has the knowledge, skills, and experience that you need for your destination country. Do this early, rather than at the last minute. In fact, do it a few months before you plan to move. This will give you plenty of time to work out any shipping or transportation details. Research moving companies by checking out review websites. If you know someone who once temporarily moved to another country, ask them for their recommendations. If you end up with a list of several companies, speak to their customer service professionals to ask questions about their services. Ideally, you should select a company that is familiar with the country you want to move to.
3. Decide what to ship and what to store.
Decide what you want to take with you know what you want to put in storage. Sometimes, it might be cheaper to buy heavy items like furniture when you get there. Sometimes, too, you may need to get new appliances because your destination country uses a different standard of voltage. After you’ve decided what you want to take with you and what you want to put in storage, make a list of all the things that you should sell or give away.
4. Organize all your contact information.
You will need the contact information of the people you need to contact before you move as well as the contact information of the people you need to contact after your move. Make sure that your domestic phone number is working until the last day that you leave. Also, get a new phone as soon as you arrive at your destination. You’ll also need a backup plan, such as a cloud-based email address.
5. Arrange for your children’s education before you leave.
If you have children, it’s better to arrange where they will go to school before you leave. You can get information on international schools or local ones on the Internet, and you might also be able to get recommendations from the country’s embassy officials or any expatriates that you know. Contact school officials to get an idea about their curriculum and any possible cultural issues or language problems.
In conclusion, moving overseas can be a wonderful adventure, and it’s essential that you plan your international move as carefully as possible so that everything works out smoothly.
