International Moving

01

Determine Your Moving Needs

The first step in planning your international move is understanding what you need to move and how much. Take a thorough inventory of your belongings and consider the following:

• What will you take with you? Identify essential items and decide what you truly need to bring. Sentimental or irreplaceable items might outweigh their practical or monetary value, so consider both emotional and market value when making decisions. Creating a packing list can help you prioritize and stay organized.
• How much space will you need? Estimating the volume of your shipment (in cubic feet or meters) is crucial to determining the best shipping option and pricing. Be realistic about what you need to transport to avoid unnecessary costs. If in doubt, consult with a moving expert to ensure you select the most efficient solution.
  

02

Timing and Delivery Schedule

The timing of your move significantly impacts shipping costs and logistics. Thoughtful planning and flexibility can streamline the process. Consider the following:

• Define Your Timeline: Determine how much time you have to plan your move. If you're in a hurry, faster air freight may be necessary, though it comes at a higher cost. For longer timelines, sea freight offers affordability. Be aware of seasonal delays and price spikes during holidays or peak moving months.
• Flexible Delivery Options:
• Shipping Ahead: If shipping by sea, plan for a transit time of 4–6 weeks. This means your belongings should be shipped well before your departure date to ensure they are ready and waiting when you arrive.
• Simultaneous Shipping: Schedule your shipment to depart around the same time as your travel date. This option allows you to settle in before unpacking.
• Staggered Timing: Ship essential items by air freight for quicker access, while less urgent belongings are sent via sea freight. This balances cost and convenience.
• Storage Solutions: Arrange short-term storage if your shipment arrives earlier or later than planned to avoid disruptions.



By discussing your timeline and needs with movers, you can create a delivery schedule that fits your priorities, manages costs, and ensures a smoother relocation experience.

03

Choose Your Shipping Method

There are different shipping methods available depending on your budget, timeline, and shipment size. The most common shipping methods are:

• Ocean Freight (1–3 months): This cost-effective option is ideal for larger shipments that can afford to wait. Transit times vary depending on distance and destination.
• Air Freight (1–3 weeks): Air freight is faster but more expensive, making it suitable for smaller shipments or urgent items. Weight and size restrictions may apply.
• Combination of Ocean and Air Freight: This method combines bulk shipping via sea with urgent items sent by air, balancing cost and convenience.
  

04

Understand the Destination and Customs Requirements

Before moving internationally, it’s crucial to understand export and import customs regulations, restrictions, and potential taxes or duties.

• Research Customs Regulations:
• Check for restricted or prohibited items.
• Verify duty-free allowances to avoid taxes.
• Prepare Required Documentation: Typical documents include export declarations, packing lists, passports, visas, and customs declarations. Some countries may also require proof of residence or employment.
• Consult a Customs Broker: A customs broker can help navigate complexities, especially for documentation and restricted items.
  

05

Insurance for Your Belongings

Protect your belongings during transit by purchasing insurance. Options include:

• Marine Insurance: Covers goods during ocean transport, protecting against loss or damage due to events like rough weather or piracy.
• Total Loss Insurance: Provides coverage if your shipment is entirely lost or severely damaged. This is a common choice for household goods.
  

06

Storage Options

If you're not immediately moving into your new home or need to store items temporarily, consider:

• Short-Term Storage: Useful for brief delays.
• Long-Term Storage: Ideal for extended periods of storage.
  

01

Organize Packing Materials and Create a Packing Plan

• Gather high-quality packing materials, including boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers.
• Use protective padding for fragile items such as glassware and electronics.
• Categorize items by type (e.g., kitchenware, clothing, furniture) and label each box clearly with its contents and destination room.
• Create a packing / unpacking plan, prioritizing essential items that may be needed immediately upon arrival.
  

02

Label and Document Items Clearly for Customs

• Create a packing list to document all items being shipped, a spreadsheet works best.
• Assign unique labels to each box for easy identification.
• Include copies of purchase receipts or appraisals for high-value items to facilitate customs clearance.
• Double-check customs forms to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  

03

Notify Relevant Authorities and Update Personal Records

• Inform your current utility providers (e.g., electricity, water, internet) of your moving date and arrange for final bills or service transfers.
• Update your mailing address with postal services, banks, and any subscription services.
• Notify government agencies, such as tax offices or social security, of your move.
• Arrange for international health insurance and update medical records as needed.
  

04

Arrange Utilities and Services at Your Destination

• Set up essential services at your new home, such as electricity, water, and internet, ahead of your arrival.
• Research local providers for phone, cable, or internet services and schedule installations if necessary.
• If applicable, arrange for temporary accommodations while awaiting shipment delivery.
  

05

Prepare Essential Travel Documents and Personal Items

• Keep passports, visas, travel tickets, and important personal documents in a secure, accessible location.
• Pack a carry-on bag with essential items such as medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes to use during transit.
• Ensure you have local currency or access to funds in your destination country.
  

06

Plan for Pets (If Applicable)

• Arrange pet transportation services if bringing pets. This may include vaccinations, health certificates, and travel crates.
  

07

Confirm All Moving Arrangements

• Double-check all booking details with your moving company, including pickup and delivery times.
• Ensure all required customs documents are prepared and accessible.
• Reconfirm travel arrangements, including flights and temporary accommodations.
• By following these comprehensive steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your international move with confidence and ease.