Getting Organised for Your Overseas Move

Taking the plunge and moving overseas can leave you feeling a little bit nervous about how it’s all going to turn out. However, if you have done your research properly your move should go without a hitch. I’m not teaching anyone to “suck eggs” here but do make sure you know the country you’re moving to. Internet research is simply not enough and will not give you a true idea of what it’s like to live in your chosen country.

Experiencing a culture that’s different to yours can only be done by being there. So make sure you have spent a decent amount of time in the country you’re moving to before you go ahead and take the plunge! If you already have this angle covered, you will want to know how best to organise your move overseas. This can be tricky but if done properly you will be in your new home and enjoying your new life before you know it.

Below are some points you should consider:

•  Don’t leave any loose ends in your current country. If necessary make sure you pay all your outstanding bills and close any accounts you won’t be using. You never know, you may want to return at some point and if you leave unpaid bills behind it will be more difficult to do.

• Make sure you understand any red-tape that may occur within the country you are moving to. Some places have rules about what you can take into their country. For instance, you may want to take wooden furniture and some places will require this to be treated before it can be accepted. Take some advice from an expert who lives in your chosen destination so there are no slip-ups once you’re on the way. 

• If you have bought a property in your “place in the sun” ensure you have done your homework in terms of taxes and insurance. It’s very easy to forget this and the last thing you need is to be landed with a huge bill which you didn’t factor into your budget. Again, it may be a good idea to use a solicitor who can help. Make sure whoever you use knows about the laws in your chosen destination. 

• When it comes to packing your belongings, it is best to spend a little bit extra and buy boxes that will withstand a long journey. Use tape that’s strong and mark anything that’s fragile in big bold letters. It may also be a good idea to put your new address on each box. 

• Make sure the removal company you choose travels to your chosen country on a regular basis. It has been known for some removal companies to take your items and then pass them on to a sub-contractor. Whilst for the most part, this works fine, you will be much better off keeping in touch with the same company at all times.

• Finally, don’t stress. You have decided to move overseas for a reason and you shouldn’t forget that. Oh, and make sure your passport has not expired!

If you’re in the process of organising your move overseas and want to find a reputable removal company to help you, try taking a look at http://www.theroadahead.co.uk/#section-2. There are plenty of professional firms who will be happy to assist you.