Moving overseas requires a great deal of preparation and organization. It can be stressful, so it’s best to be prepared and have a list of things in a notebook so you can keep everything in one place and check off your tasks as you complete them. Also, the names and phone numbers of companies and individuals can be kept in the notebook so you can keep track of when you called people, who you talked to and their phone numbers…

1) Be prepared. When moving overseas, know that not everything will go perfectly. You will likely become frustrated sometimes, so plan on it. You may not get your visas as quickly as you expect, you may get held up over seemingly silly things, or it may cost more than you planned. Do not allow these events to throw you off course. Be prepared to go with the flow and be flexible during this time of change.

2) Have a budget. It’s important to have a good budget where you work out everything you will have to pay for. This can include your shipping costs for moving your items overseas, lodging and food when you arrive, airline tickets, insurance and other important costs that you must consider.

3) Take care of your health. Make an appointment for a physical exam with your regular doctor and explain to your physician your moving plans. There may be immunizations or other precautions that can be advised for you. Also, if you have any medical conditions that require treatment or medication, you will want to know that you will be taken care of until you can get moved and settled in your new country. Dental work and eye care also need to be taken care of before you move.

4) Research your new country. Every country has its own set of rules, standards, and way of living. Go to the library and find out about your country. What do the people eat? How do they dress? What habits do most people have? What do they dislike from foreigners? What is the best way to get around? How can you easily make friends in the new country? There are so many things to learn and understand that will make your move easier for you.

5) Learn a new language. Does your new country speak another language? If so, you will want to begin learning the language as soon as possible. Your library should have CD’s available that you can listen to and learn basic words of the language. You can also find many resources online to help you learn a new language. It would be worth your money to buy a program to help you learn how to speak and understand the language. Also, this will help you to make friends more easily and quickly, which will help you to feel at home in your new country.

6) Contact an international moving company. They will need to formulate a list of your belongings in order to give you an estimated shipping cost. It is best to get a quote from at least three worldwide moving companies so you can compare pricing and service.

7) Decide rather to take or leave your vehicle. Every country has different ways to get around. Many people who travel overseas do not take their cars, but use the public transportation system to get around. If you do decide to take your car, be sure and get quotes on shipping car overseas. Your car can be placed in a separate container or it can be driven on and off the cargo ship. Consider your options depending on how much you want to pay and the care you want to be given to your vehicle.

8) Check on your insurance policies. There are several kinds of insurance to consider – health, life, property and travel – are a few of the most important ones. This is something that needs to be looked into right away, as it can take awhile for policies to be approved.

9) Take care of your bills, credit cards and banking. You need to let your creditors know that you are moving. Make sure your credit cards are accepted in other countries. Your bank needs to know that you are moving and rather or not you are going to keep your current account open.

10) Forward mail and email. You will need to fill out paperwork at the postal service to get your mail forwarded to your new address. Because you are moving, you may have to change your email as well. Be sure and let your contacts know ahead of time so they will know how to get in contact with you.

All of these things are important, but most importantly, do not be too hard on yourself. Moving to a new country is not an easy task. Sometimes you will feel exhausted both emotionally and physically from trying to get all of this together. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help as you pack and prepare. Remember that very soon, you will be in your new country, in your new home, where you can rest and enjoy!

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Written by Einat Mazafi
Einat Mazafi is the owner of NY International Shipping, an International Shipping and moving company based in New York. She is also a specialist in providing the best relocation solutions to clients worldwide.