Planning an international move?
Moving to a new country is a big step. But you’re not alone in wanting to take that leap. Over 8 million Americans currently live overseas. So if you’ve got the travel bug or the dream of an overseas retirement, read on.
Here’s the thing.
International relocations are different from local moves. Customs and shipping regulations, visa paperwork and costs that quickly spiral out of control. Trust us. We’ve seen it all. But with the right planning, your move can be smooth as silk. We get it. You’re relocating for work, retirement, or adventure. We’ve got a comprehensive guide to make your international move easy-peasy.
Your moving roadmap:
- Timeline Planning: When To Start Your Move
- Essential Documents You’ll Need
- Choosing Your Moving Strategy
- Hidden Costs To Budget For
- Packing And Shipping Essentials
Start Planning 6-12 Months Early
Here’s why you need to plan early:
International moves are complex. Coordinating between different countries, regulations and complex logistics takes months. Don’t make the mistake of winging it. Instead, plan like a pro.
The smartest movers plan at least 6 months out. But give yourself a full year if you can. In this early phase you need to research affordable international movers and compare quotes. Prices and quality of international moving services vary hugely. So shop around and don’t rush.
Your early planning to do list:
- Research visa requirements for your destination
- Get quotes from at least 3-5 international moving companies
- Start decluttering (the less you ship the better)
- Research the cost of living in your new location
- Begin medical and education transfers
The earlier you start the more relaxed you’ll be when your moving day rolls around.
Gather All The Necessary Documents
Moving to another country involves tons of paperwork.
Here’s what you absolutely need:
Passport – Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. If it’s expiring soon or you don’t have one, apply now. Passport processing can take 6-18 weeks during peak periods.
Visas – Visa requirements vary widely by country. Some countries allow visa-free entry for Americans, others require long processing times.
Your documents to gather to do list:
- Birth certificates for everyone in your family
- Marriage or divorce certificates, if applicable
- School transcripts and diplomas
- Medical records and vaccination history
- Employment and work references
- Financial records and tax returns
- Background checks (if needed)
Save hard copies and digital copies of everything. Upload digital copies to cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox. That way you always have access.
Choose Your Moving Strategy
Several options available and choosing wisely can save you thousands.
Full Service International Moving
This is the all-inclusive option where the moving company handles everything. Full-service international moves can cost $10,000 to $20,000 for 3 bedrooms worth of household goods, but it’s white-glove service.
Included:
- Packing and unpacking by professionals
- Crating fragile items
- Door-to-door delivery
- Customs clearance
- Insurance
Shared Container Shipping
If you’re looking to save money, shared container shipping (LCL, Less than Container Load) is smart. Split container space with other customers and save big.
Shared container shipping is best for smaller moves or if you have more time. Costs range from $3,000 to $8,000 for 1-2 bedrooms worth of goods.
Do It Yourself (DIY) International Moving
This is the budget option. Pack everything yourself, arrange shipping and deal with customs forms. It’s the most work but the most savings.
DIY only works well for small shipments and experienced movers.
Budget For Hidden Costs
International moving costs will sneak up on you.
Recent data shows that the global ex-pat population has now hit over 300 million people. But many people dramatically underestimate their total costs.
Here’s what most movers forget to budget for:
Customs & Import Fees
Each country charges for imported household goods. Plan on paying around 2% of the value of your shipment in customs fees.
Storage Fees
Items often arrive before you’re ready. Temporary storage can cost $100 to $500 per month depending on the shipment size.
Travel Expenses
This is always forgotten! Flights to your new country. International flights for families can range from $2,000-8,000+ depending on where you’re going.
Visa And Immigration Costs
Totally varies by country. US employment visas cost around $450 while Australian visas cost over $2,100.
Insurance
Basic moving company insurance is not enough for international moves. You need proper coverage and will pay around 1% of your shipment’s total value.
Pack Strategically And Ship Smart
International shipping has special rules and regulations.
Here’s what you need to know:
Shipper Method
Sea freight is cheaper but slower (4-12 weeks). Air freight is faster (1-2 weeks) but more expensive. Most families opt for sea freight for belongings and air freight for essential items.
Volume vs. Weight
Unlike domestic moving, international shipping is calculated by volume rather than weight. A bulky light item can cost as much to ship as a heavy compact one.
Items You Cannot Ship
Every country has a list of prohibited items. Checklists vary but common things you can’t ship include:
- Plants and food
- Flammable items
- Weapons/ammo
- Certain electronics
- Prescription medications
Check prohibited items list for both countries to be safe.
Professional Packing Is Worth It
International shipments are bashed around more and take longer. Packing by professionals costs more but reduces risks of damage.
Handle Customs Like A Pro
Customs paperwork can make or break your move.
Here’s how to make it painless:
Create detailed inventory lists with descriptions and item values. Customs officials want to know exactly what you’re importing.
Save all receipts and proof of ownership for valuable items. Receipts help with establishing value and proving ownership if questions arise.
If your shipment is complex, you can hire a customs broker to handle the process. They know the rules and avoid delays.
The Week Of Moving To-Do List
Moving week is going to be hectic.
Stay organized with this to do list:
- Confirm all details with moving company
- Pack “first week survival” kit to ship via air
- Make arrangements for temporary housing (if needed)
- Setup mail forwarding
- Close and/or transfer bank accounts
- Cancel utilities/subscriptions
Important tip: Keep critical documents on you during travel. Passports, visas and vital paperwork should not be in boxes!
Wrapping It All Up
International moving doesn’t have to be hard.
With the right preparations and team, your overseas relocation can be the adventure of a lifetime.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Plan 6-12 months out
- Gather all required documents upfront
- Get quotes from at least 3 international movers
- Factor in hidden costs like customs fees and storage
- Choose right shipping method for your needs
- Pack professionally and create inventories
Millions of people successfully make international moves each year. Now you can too with this roadmap.
The sooner you begin the better.
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