The thought of moving to a new home is truly a milestone worth celebrating, one that is filled with excitement for the start of a new chapter in your life. But the process of moving can be hectic and stressful, so imagine the struggles going up a notch when you have to pack for your overseas relocation.
After all, settling down in a new place a few states away is completely different from living in a foreign country, that’s why it’s important to plan thoroughly to ensure you experience a smooth-sailing move.
Packing your life in boxes takes plenty of time, and to keep yourself from being overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work you need to do, creating a packing checklist can help guide you through every step of the way and ensure you’ve got everything you need for the big move. Below is a comprehensive worldwide moving checklist for your packing needs.
Packing Essentials When Moving Abroad
- Clothes, shoes, and accessories;
- Passport, visa, and related documents;
- Toiletries;
- Trinkets that remind you of home;
- Electronics;
- Portably battery pack;
- Appliances and utensils;
What Do You Need to Consider When Packing for Your Overseas Move?
Factor #1: What Can You Bring in the New Country?
The most important thing to do when moving overseas is to check if the country you are moving to has any limits on what you can bring in. Although most countries have no restrictions on bringing personal belongings, things such as furniture and appliances, they might limit the type or quantity of goods. You can find out if the country you are moving to has import restrictions by doing a simple search online.
Factor #2: Shipping Options
As much as you want to bring along your favorite bubble bath, it’s not the most feasible thing to carry with you when moving overseas. Why? Because if you can’t bring it in your car, you won’t be able to bring it on your plane either. Shipping your belongings overseas is the most convenient option for overseas movers as it provides the best way to move large and bulky items—things like furniture and appliances for instance.
Factor #3: What Are the Best Ways to Pack?
Packing can be a tiresome task especially when you have to move to a place a few states away. But when you are moving overseas, it takes a whole new level of perseverance as you have to pack a whole life—all your clothes, toiletries, electronics, and other essential household items—in boxes and bags that you can carry on a plane.
Factor #4: What is Your Desired Lifestyle Abroad?
It is important to have a clear idea of your desired lifestyle abroad before you pack for your overseas move. This process will help you organize your packing checklist so that you won’t miss any essential items. For instance, if you are moving to the country for business, you might want to prioritize business attire over your favorite comfiest t-shirt and jeans.
The Bottom Line: Preparing for an International Relocation
When you are moving overseas, the goal is to not just move from one place to another; you are living a new life in a different country. Therefore, you want to make sure you bring the things that are most important to you. This is where the “less is more” saying comes into play. If you find yourself having trouble deciding what to bring and what to leave, you can always get help from a professional to make sure you pack only the most important items.
How Can We Help You?
Are you looking for storage units in Alexandria, VA? If so, Division 1 Moving & Storage is here to help. We are a company of experienced local movers that also offer high-quality storage facilities. From moving to packing, down to storage—we’ve got you covered. Plan your next big move with us!