If you are asking yourself what would be the best way to move internationally and make this journey enjoyable, there’s no straight answer. When relocating abroad, it’s usually important to lighten your load, start with preparations on time, and hire movers to handle the heavy lifting. This will lower the tensions and allow you to get fully excited about this transition. Let’s dive deeper into this topic with experts from Shepherd International Movers.
What Is the Best Way to Move Internationally
Moving internationally involves starting on time with thorough planning, decluttering your belongings, and securing quality supplies to box everything up properly. It also entails understanding customs regulations and choosing a reliable shipping company to ease this transition. This approach minimizes stress and enhances the efficiency and safety of this journey.
Start With Planning and Preparations Well Ahead of Time
Relocation can break even the most prepared of us. This process is full of ups and downs, and it sometimes seems like you can’t solve anything. However, if you want this process to run as smoothly as a freshly broken pair of sneakers, start planning early on.
This gives you ample time to organize, make decisions, and avoid last-minute hassle. Research your destination country’s regulations and relocation requirements and prepare the necessary documentation for traveling abroad. Moreover, make a to-do list with tasks and deadlines to keep you on track. All of this will streamline this process and make this period less stressful.
Downsize Your Home Before Boxing Everything Up
Moving abroad is an excellent opportunity to downsize. Decluttering will save you money, time, and effort during the packing and moving. Streamline your transition into a new environment by evaluating what you need and leaving behind the rest.
Fewer belongings mean lower shipping costs and less hassle when you arrive and start setting up your new home. Plus, decluttering can also be a cathartic experience, helping you embrace a fresh start with only the essentials that truly spark joy.
Sell and Donate Unnecessary Stuff to Declutter Further
Go through each room and decide what you need to take with you. Evaluate items based on their necessity, sentimental value, and condition. Sell items in good condition through online marketplaces or garage sales to recoup some of your expenses.
For items that aren’t worth selling, consider donating them to local charities. Donating helps you declutter further and supports your community by providing goods to those in need. This process reduces the number of your belongings and the amount of supplies needed to box it all up.
Create an Inventory List of Everything You Are Taking With You
Make a detailed inventory list of all the items you plan to relocate. Begin by categorizing items into books, clothing, electronics, and kitchenware. For each item, note its condition and any other relevant details. This list will help you keep track of your belongings throughout the entire process and ensure that nothing is forgotten and left behind. It will also be useful for insurance purposes and customs declarations, facilitating a smoother transition through international borders.
Gather the Essential Packing Supplies
Quality packing materials are essential for ensuring the safety of your belongings during transit. They provide the necessary protection to withstand long-distance travel and handling. Here’s a list of the necessary supplies that will make the boxing-up process more efficient:
- Sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes – choose strong, durable boxes that can withstand the rigors of international shipping.
- Bubble wrap and packing paper – use bubble wrap for fragile items and crumpled paper to fill gaps and provide cushioning.
- Duct tape and dispenser – secure boxes with high-quality tape to prevent them from opening during transit and handling.
- Foam peanuts – perfect for filling voids and preventing movement.
- Labeling markers – label each box with its contents and destination room to simplify unpacking.
- Scissors and utility knives – have these tools on hand for cutting materials and opening boxes.
- Furniture covers and blankets – protect furniture with covers or blankets to prevent scratches and damage.
- Ziplock bags for small items – use sealable bags to keep small items organized and prevent them from getting lost.
Guide on How to Handle Your Belongings in the Weeks Leading Up to the Move
Following a structured approach in the weeks leading up to your move will make the process more manageable. Properly organizing the boxing-up process is crucial to ensuring everything arrives safely and is easy to unpack. This guide will help you prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Let’s see how exactly.
Start With Non-Essentials Four Weeks Before Relocation
Books, CDs, and seasonal items are typically used less frequently and can be packed early on. Begin by gathering all such items from around your home. Store them in effectively labeled boxes, noting the contents and destination room on the outside.
Tackle Larger Household Items Three Weeks Before Moving
Start with non-essential furniture you won’t need for the next few weeks. Disassemble any large items, such as bed frames and dining tables, to save space and prevent damaging them in transport.
Prepare certain appliances that won’t be needed before the relocation. Clean, defrost, and secure appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Ensure they are completely dry and securely wrapped for the transition.
Focus on Valuables and Fragile Items Two Weeks Before the Big Day
Take extra care with glassware, ornaments, and delicate electronics. Wrap each piece individually with bubble wrap or clean paper, and store them in a perfectly-sized crate. Fill any empty spaces with foam peanuts or additional paper to prevent items from shifting.
Next, concentrate on storing valuable jewelry, important documents, and collectibles. However, carry these items with you during transit for extra safety. Use secure containers and relocation binders to keep everything in one place. Keep a detailed list of what each crate contains to simplify the settling-in phase.
Finalize Everything One Week Before Transfer
Pack a suitcase or box with essentials you’ll need immediately upon arrival at the new home. Include items like toiletries, a few changes of clothes, necessary chargers, and any immediate paperwork required for your new location. This essential box should be easily accessible during the entire relocation. Ideally, It should be kept with you or marked and loaded last onto the relocation vehicle.
Hire the International Moving Company to Ease This Process
Hiring a reputable moving company can make this journey significantly easier. Shepherd International Movers have the expertise and resources to handle the complexities and logistics of such relocations. Our team is trained to ensure that this process runs as smoothly and hassle-free as possible. All you have to do is reach us on time, pick the date, and we will give you a transparent, free quote for this move.
Book Moving and Packing Services for Peace of Mind
Handling all of this alone can be exceptionally hard. However, hiring professional movers can greatly ease your burdens. Shepherd International Movers can efficiently handle, store, and transfer your belongings, ensuring they are safe and ready for the long journey.
Our comprehensive moving service provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other aspects of this journey. We have top-notch packing services that entail quality supplies and techniques to ensure everything reaches you in perfect condition.
If You Want to Take Your Car With You, Leave This Task to Our Professionals
Trust us, moving overseas is taxing enough. Adding vehicle relocation and handling all the paperwork and customs to the equation can be very stressful. That’s why this task is best left in the hands of an experienced company. Shepherd International Movers designed their overseas vehicle shipping services to simplify these complexities. Our team will ensure that your cherished four-wheeler is loaded, transferred, and delivered in a safe and timely manner.
Final Checks Before Moving Day Starts
There are several things you could do to ensure a smooth transition before the big day even starts. First, confirm all travel arrangements for yourself and your family. Make sure that tickets and schedules are in place and accessible. Next, ensure that all necessary documents and paperwork are organized and readily available. This includes passports, visas, moving company contracts, and inventory lists.
It’s also important to verify the details with your company one last time. Confirm the schedule, the list of services you’ve agreed upon, and any last-minute adjustments. Finally, conduct a final walkthrough of your home to make sure nothing has been overlooked. Check each room, closet, and storage area to ensure everything is packed or disposed of accordingly. This thorough final review helps prevent any last-minute surprises and sets the stage for a successful transition.
With Our Team by Your Side, This Process Will Be a Smooth Endeavor
Following this comprehensive guide will ensure a successful and organized overseas transition. Planning, downsizing, using quality packing supplies, and hiring professionals will make this adventure efficient and worry-free.
With Shepherd International Movers at the helm, you are set for a smooth and stress-free relocation. We’ll take care of every detail, from packing and transportation to delivery and furniture disassembly. So why not reach out to us today? Let our team handle this transition and make it a smooth endeavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Way to Move Internationally
Why Is Starting With Planning on Time Crucial for an International Relocation?
Planning allows you to manage your time effectively and avoid the stress of last-minute preparations. Early planning enables you to identify potential challenges and address them proactively, ensuring a smoother moving process.
Why Is Decluttering an Important Step in This Process?
Decluttering is essential because it reduces the number of items you need to pack and move. It makes this process more efficient and cost-effective. It also gives you the chance to start fresh in the new home without unnecessary clutter.
Why Should I Use Quality Packing Materials?
Using quality supplies is crucial for protecting your belongings during transit. High-quality materials provide the necessary cushioning and support to prevent damage, ensuring that your items arrive in the same condition as when they left.
Why Should I Hire Professional Movers for an International Move?
Hiring professionals is advisable because they have the expertise and resources to handle the complexities of an international relocation. Expert movers can manage everything from packing and transportation to customs clearance, providing a stress-free and smooth transition to your new home.
What Should I Do a Day Before Moving Internationally?
Double-check all preparation steps. Ensure that your bags are packed, including an essential kit with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival. Reconfirm your travel schedule and transportation arrangements to the airport or port.
Also, make a final check of your household to ensure nothing is left behind. Try to get a good night’s sleep, as the upcoming days will be busy and demanding. This last day is your opportunity to address any overlooked details and set the stage for a smooth transition.
