Planning an international move is never easy.

Whether you’re motivated by your professional goals, personal preferences or anything in between, the entire process from the day you decide to move till the day you finally arrive in your new home overseas, is indeed lengthy and complicated.

You know you will need help from an international moving company to relocate all your stuff, but you might be unsure how much you need to be involved otherwise and what other important things need to be taken care of.

So, if you want an easy navigation and a smooth journey to your new house abroad, follow this comprehensive guide on international moving tips to help yourself prepare well.

Familiarize yourself

In case you are not completely aware of the fundamentals of relocation, do some research via the internet or get some insight by talking to your friends and family who have immigrated before. A basic idea will give you a head-start and you can discover more as you move along.

Begin with legal documentation

It goes without saying, your passport and visa are the keys to your entry into or exit from any international destination.

Make sure you have all the legal documents required and renew your passport if it is about to expire. To find the specific requirements of your new country, consult their embassy or consulate. It’s better and often even necessary that you meet the concerned official in person. Have all your documents such as birth certificate, driving license, marriage certificate, work visa, student visa, etc., ready for examining or any further paperwork.

Choose an international moving company

Pick an international moving company to help you with all your relocation needs, at least three months before the date of your move.

In your search for the best company, you will come across various ‘professionals’ who boast of their service, reputation or their cheap rates.

But it’s up to you to research well and select a well-established and a well-reputed international moving company whose customer base, past accomplished deliveries and wide range of services speak for themselves.

Make decisions

Sort out what you need to carry and what you don’t.

Sell out any extra furniture or items you won’t need, such as electronic appliances which may not be compatible in the new country.

Search for the schools for your children in your new neighborhood and schedule appointments beforehand.

Research the legal requirements, customs,and duties on items such as your car and decide whether you need to ship them or leave them behind.

Pack items

Keep only essentials with you as you pack everything else.

For instance, important documents, a few clothes, medications,and basic toiletries along with any other item you will need in the next few days are the only things you should carry in your suitcase.

Stay connected

Inform your family and friends and other important people like your bank or mail provider about your change of address. Try to get a roaming service on your mobile phone or a connection that will work in your new country so that you remain in touch with your family back home.

Moreover, a worldwide phone connection will also help you stay connected with your international moving company.

Lastly, remember that the international moving company you select makes a huge difference. They can greatly ease your relocation process by handling all the complexities of packing and moving goods internationally.

So make sure you choose the best one.