Prepare for the Move in Advance
You should prepare for your move overseas far in advance. Why? Moving can be quite an adventure when your belongings must travel by automobile, plane and possibly ship! Everything from what you pack to how you pack it must be carefully planned out beforehand. Consider the handling of your belongings and what they will be exposed to during the move - temperature changes, moisture, movement, etc.
Also, determine what you should pack and what to leave out before the move. Your items might be in transport for several weeks before arriving at your new home. Anything you need during that time should be kept out. If you will be traveling by plane, check with the airline to find out what you can and cannot carry with you as personal luggage. There are usually weight restrictions for this.
Moving Assistance
Choose your movers carefully. Cost should not be the only determining factor. If possible, get recommendations from others who have experienced a similar move. Or, research several companies online and through the Better Business Bureau to find a reliable company. Your items will be in their hands, so it's important to choose a reliable mover who understands the process of moving to a foreign land well.
Here are some questions to ask the movers before signing a moving contract. - Do you provide insurance, and what is covered?
- What types of vehicles are used during the moving process?
- Will you handle custom forms, or will that be my responsibility?
- Are there moving or cargo restrictions in the country where I am moving?
- Will my electrical appliances be compatible with the outlets there?
- Does your charge cover everything, even port charges and quarantine clearances (if applicable)?
- Will my belongings be stored anywhere during the moving process if not shipped or delivered immediately?
- Can you provide references?
- Will I need to pack my items, or do you provide packing services?
- Can I transport my pets?
- Can I transport my vehicle(s)?
- Are there restrictions as to what can be transported into the country (i.e. medicines, chemicals, food products, weapons, etc.)?
- What shipping methods will be used - sea freight or air freight?
- How long is the moving process from start to finish?
Breaking Old Ties and Forming New Ones
As you prepare for your move, be sure to contact every company necessary to let them know you are moving to a foreign country. You'll need to cancel memberships, subscriptions, turn off utilities and phone, cancel insurance if not available where you will live. Don't forget to let your local Post Office know you will be moving as well, and ask about forwarding your mail if possible. If you are unable to get the mail forwarded to a foreign country, you might have it forwarded to a friend or relative nearby and have them mail it to you.
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