So, you’ve made a big decision – you’re relocating internationally! Now comes the hard part: packing. But before you start throwing things into boxes, it’s crucial to figure out what to start packing first when moving. With a little planning, you’ll be ready to say goodbye to chaos and hello to organized suitcases and boxes.
Start by boxing up non-essential items like out-of-season clothes, extra linens, and decorations. These are things you won’t need immediately and can be packed away early, making the process smoother as your relocation date gets closer.
Make a Plan Before You Start Boxing Things Up
Moving overseas is no small task. In fact, it can be quite complex. From finding a new place to live and securing a job to managing all the necessary paperwork, there’s a lot to consider. Without a solid plan in place, things can quickly become overwhelming. Before you even think about packing, take the time to map out every detail. Research housing options, look into job opportunities, and ensure that all your documents are in order.
When it comes to relocating your household, choosing a reliable international moving company is crucial. You’ll want a company that offers comprehensive services to handle the entire process, from packing to transporting your belongings safely across the world. One such company is Schmidt International Relocations, known for offering full-service moves tailored to make your international transition as smooth as possible. With the right movers on your side, you can focus on the exciting new chapter ahead.
Decide How You Are Going to Move
Before you even begin packing, it’s important to decide what type of service suits your move the best. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, international moving by sea might be the way to go. It’s cheaper, but it will take longer for your belongings to arrive. On the other hand, relocating by air is much faster, making it ideal for urgent moves, though it does come with a higher price tag.
Shepherd International Movers offers the ability to ship your car along with the rest of your household goods in the same container. This service is perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of arranging separate shipments for their vehicle and belongings. With this option, everything is packed securely in one container, simplifying the entire process and potentially saving on costs. Plus, having your car and household items arrive together makes settling into your new home that much easier.
What to Start Packing First When Moving Internationally
Creating a well-thought-out packing schedule is crucial when planning a move to another country. Knowing what to pack and when to do it can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth transition. Start with the non-essentials and work your way through the rest of your belongings, following a systematic approach. Below is a breakdown of how to begin packing efficiently.
Non-Essential Items You Can Pack Right Away
Non-essential items are the first on your packing list when preparing for an international move. These include out-of-season clothing, decor, and other belongings you won’t need in the short term. Packing strategies for moving suggest starting with these items to clear space and get ahead in the process. Be sure to identify what not to pack when moving, such as perishables or hazardous materials that aren’t suitable for long-distance travel.
Do your research well and find out what items are not allowed to be imported into your country of choice. Go to the US Department of State website and find the country you plan to relocate to see what the rules and regulations are in that country.
Documents and Important Papers
Your documents and important papers should be packed early but stored safely, as you’ll need them accessible throughout the international moving process. It’s important to focus on how to pack efficiently here – store passports, visas, financial documents, and other crucial paperwork in a designated folder or small bag. These items should never be part of your general shipment but should be kept with you for easy access during the relocation.
How to Organize Your Packing Timeline
Organizing your timeline can significantly reduce the stress of moving abroad. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, you’ll stay on top of things and ensure everything gets packed efficiently. A well-structured timeline will also help you keep track of your moving inventory, making the entire experience smoother.
Two Months Before the Move
The two-month mark is the perfect time to start sorting through your belongings and decluttering your home. This stage is all about making the relocation easier by reducing the amount of stuff you need to pack, transport, and unpack.
Start by going through each room and identifying items you haven’t used in months or even years. This is when you should focus on downsizing by getting rid of things that no longer serve a purpose, such as old clothes, outdated electronics, or unused kitchen gadgets. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also help create more space in your new home.
A great way to get rid of these items is by donating them to local charities or shelters. Many organizations accept gently used clothing, furniture, and household items, allowing you to give back to the community while decluttering.
Alternatively, you can organize a garage sale to make some extra cash from the things you no longer need. Hosting a garage sale can be a fun way to clear out your home and earn a little money to help cover moving expenses. If you’re short on time, consider listing items online through social media platforms or Craigslist. The goal here is to only take what’s essential and meaningful to your new home, which will make the process far more efficient in the long run.
One Month Before the Move
With just one month left, it’s time to focus on the best way to pack for a move. Start boxing up items like plates, pots, pans, kitchen items, books, and other belongings that won’t be needed in the final weeks. This is also a great time to consider hiring movers for additional packing services if you haven’t already. Professional movers can provide packaging materials, assist with heavy lifting, and ensure that your belongings are safely transported, giving you more time to focus on other details of your relocation.
Two Weeks Before the Move
With two weeks out, it’s time to shift your focus to the rest of your belongings. By now, you should have a clear idea of what to start packing first when moving across the world, so concentrate on boxing up the majority of your household items. Leave out only what you’ll need on a daily basis for the remaining days.
It’s also a great moment to confirm that all your important paperwork, like passports and travel documents, is securely packed in an easily accessible place. At this stage, it’s all about staying organized. Make sure everything is clearly labeled, and continue to tick items off your moving checklist to avoid last-minute chaos.
One Week Before the Move
With one week left, it’s time to focus on finishing your packing. Pack up the remaining items and start thinking about the things you’ll need immediately upon arrival in your new home. Now is also the time to pack your essentials bag with important items like toiletries, a change of clothes, and any necessary electronics.
If you’re moving to a country with different electrical outlets, don’t forget to purchase the necessary adapters for your devices. Being prepared with the right adapters will save you from the hassle of hunting them down after you’ve arrived, ensuring you can settle in comfortably and stay connected from day one.
Packing Tips for a Smooth International Move
Moving internationally can be a daunting task, but with a few smart packing strategies, you can make the process much smoother. To ensure everything goes according to plan, it’s essential to stay organized and think ahead. From labeling your boxes to preparing an essentials bag, these tips will help streamline your relocation and reduce stress.
Label Like a Pro and Unlock the Secret to Effortless Unpacking
One of the best ways to pack for a move is to clearly label all of your boxes. Make sure each box is labeled not only by room but also by its contents. For instance, instead of just writing “kitchen,” write “kitchen – pots, pans, utensils.” This will make unpacking at your new destination much easier, especially if you need to find specific items quickly.
Additionally, include any special instructions like “fragile” or “this side up” to ensure your movers handle everything properly. If you’ve created a detailed moving inventory, this will also help you keep track of all your belongings during the journey.
Pack Your Survival Kit! The Must-Have Essentials for Moving Day
When moving internationally, it’s crucial to have an essentials bag packed separately from the rest of your shipment. This bag should include everything you’ll need immediately upon arrival – think toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, chargers, and any necessary medications.
Having this bag on hand will save you from digging through boxes right when you arrive. It’s also helpful in case your shipment is delayed, or you encounter any unexpected issues during your relocation. Here’s a list of essentials to include in your bag when moving internationally:
- Important documents – passports, visas, travel itinerary, medical records.
- Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner.
- A change of clothes – a comfortable outfit for arrival, sleepwear, and underwear.
- Medications – any prescriptions and over-the-counter medicine you might need.
- Chargers and electronics – phone, laptop, tablet, chargers, adapters if necessary.
- Snacks and water – easy-to-carry snacks like granola bars, nuts, and a refillable water bottle.
- Basic first aid kit – band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes.
- Comfort items – a small pillow, blanket, or book to help you settle in after a long trip.
Pack Smart, Stress Less! Let Shepherd International Movers Handle the Rest!
Starting your packing process with non-essential items is key to reducing stress during an international move. By tackling things you won’t immediately need, you’ll create a more organized approach and leave plenty of time for the essentials closer to the relocation day. Remember, preparation is everything. If the logistics of packing seem overwhelming, don’t hesitate to contact us for a quote. Professional help can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful relocation.
