Moving overseas checklist: How to get prepared

Moving to another country is always exciting – and a little stressful.

When you’re prepared for all of the potential complications involved with international relocation, you can focus on what matters most, whether that’s preparing your new career or planning for your next big adventure.

As you get ready to move overseas, use this checklist to make sure you have a smooth transition:

1. Collect your official documents

Gathering your official documents early will save you a lot of time as you prepare to move overseas. For example, you may need some of your documents now so that you can obtain new documents – like an international drivers permit – before your move.

Important documents to collect may include:

• Passports.
• Birth certificates.
• Marriage certificates or divorce papers.
• Medical records.
• School and university records.
• Insurance policies.
• Financial records.

Depending on where you’re moving to, you may need specific papers required by that country. For instance, you may need a work visa or letter of invitation from an overseas employer. Do you due diligence ahead of time so you don’t run into any roadblocks further along in the moving process.

2. Develop a moving timeline

Give yourself plenty of time to make all of the necessary arrangements for moving abroad. A rough timeline will help you to stay on track with everything you need to do before moving day. It may be wise to contact an international moving company early so they can help you better understand everything that will be involved.

3. Ensure your pets can make the journey

Be sure to verify any requirements your new home may have regarding pets. For example, New Zealand has a number of restrictions on the types of pets allowed into the country. In addition, most countries will require a special permit or license. Put in any necessary applications early to ensure your pets can make the trip with you.

4. Notify relevant government organisations

As your moving date gets closer, you’ll need to notify a few organisations about where you’re going. At the very least, you’ll need to stop your mail and provide a forwarding address. Depending on your current living situation, you may need to notify:

• Financial institutions.
• Insurance providers.
• Your landlord.
• Utility companies.
• The taxation office.

5. Settle your obligations at home

Prior to moving, you’ll want to ensure you don’t leave any loose ends untended. Make sure you pay outstanding bills or set up payment plans as necessary. In addition, you may to close financial accounts if your bank does not have locations in your new country. You may also need to cancel subscription services and any insurance plans that don’t offer international coverage.

Dealing with these obligations after you move can be difficult, so it’s best to take care of them while you’re still nearby – especially if you need to make an in-person visit.

6. Get in touch with an international moving company

It’s a good idea to contact international movers well in advance of your planned moving date. Expert movers can help you determine how to ship your belongings overseas. In addition, best-in-class movers offer additional services such as currency exchange and insurance acquisition.

Not sure what type of moving services you need? Choose a moving company that provides in-home consultation services to get a better understanding of what to expect. Moving coordinators can help you determine the best timeline for moving abroad as well as how to handle your belongings, including vehicles, large furniture and antiques.

Moving abroad doesn’t have to be stressful. When you work with a moving company that understands the ins and outs of international relocation, you can focus on more important things, like helping your family with the transition.

Get in touch with OSS Worldwide Movers to learn more about our door-to-door overseas moving services.