They say moving is always a very traumatic experience. While we don’t all get actual “traumas” out of relocation, the truth is that most people would be more than happy to avoid the hassle that comes with removals, moving, the paperwork related to it and every other trouble that may stand in the way of their relaxation.
If moving in your own country is like this, can you even imagine how moving abroad can feel? Of course, most people who choose to relocate in a foreign country know from the very beginning that it will come with its share of hassle and trouble. But the truth is that there is always a mix of excitement and worries when it comes to doing such a big step.
To help you out on this, we have created a moving checklist that will help everyone trying to move abroad. Hopefully, this will help you get through the “removals” operation faster and more hassle-free.
1. Start researching your destination as soon as possible. This includes everything from what paperwork you will need there to potential job opportunities, rentals, sensitive cultural issues, food, weather and everything else related to that place. For instance, if you are travelling outside of the European Union and you plan on driving, did you know that you will need an International Driver’s Permit?
2. Also, remember to sort out the things you want to take with you. If you are like most of the “movers” relocating in a foreign country, you will not be suing a removals company (and not even a man and van either) precisely because you will not be moving house there – you will just be moving “yourself”. Think long and hard about the things you want to take with you and leave the rest at home. Tip: this is a great opportunity to clean out those things you haven’t used in decades and give them to charity.
3. Put your paperwork in order. Keep in mind that this does not refer only to the paperwork that you will be taking with you, but also to the paperwork that will be left behind for you. For instance, you may have to let the authorities know that you are moving to a different country because different types of taxes may apply. Inform yourself and make sure everything is organized before your leave!
4. If you plan on moving with your kids, make sure that you start taking care of their school paperwork approximately 2 months before the moving date.
5. Also, pay attention to immunizations. If you know you are going to move to a country with potential disease factors, make sure you take all the immunity shots you need. Talk to your doctor about this because they have to be done at specific times before you leave the country!
6. About one month before the moving date, remember to buy any insurance policies you might need – and this includes removals insurance as well (if you plan on actually “removing” anything from your current home and bringing it to your new country
7. Also one month before moving, remember to pay all of your bills and to cancel any kind of subscriptions and bills you may have at home.
8. Two weeks before the moving date, bring in professionals to disconnect the appliances in your kitchen.
9. One week before moving, remember to change some of your money into your “new country’s” local currency so that you have money upon your arrival there.
10. Start packing your luggage and labelling your furniture (and start with those you use less often and end up with the things you use on a daily basis).
