Moving is stressful enough, but when you add in the fact that you are moving internationally, it can be downright overwhelming. An international move takes quite a bit of planning and coordination. The process can take months to complete and typically cannot be done overnight. Here are some important tips to follow as you embark on a new journey in life, moving internationally for school, work or family.
Simplify Your Life
One of the first things you must consider is simplifying your life. If you think all of your stuff won’t fit into boxes and bags for the move, that’s a sign it’s time to get rid of some things. Take a long look at your belongings. Ask yourself, what of mine actually makes me happy or has a purpose in my life? If you look at items and they don’t make you happy, you don’t need them anymore. The same can be said for items you’ve been holding onto ‘just in case.’ For the most part, these things can be easily replaced. And guess what? Most times, they don’t even need to be replaced.
Get Organized
An international move is a great time to organize your life. Who wants to do it upon arrival in your new country? It’s just too stressful. Put all of your important paperwork in file folders and mark them accordingly. Designate a briefcase for your files. Try some organization hacks to limit the amount of space your items take up when you begin packing. For example, stuff small items into shoes you are packing. Roll shirts into a cylindrical shape to save space. When you are organizing your electronics, match the units to their chargers and then throw away any chargers left without a device.
Reading Materials
Many people will want to bring their entire book collection with them on an international move. It might help them feel more at home in their new residence. But, for some, this can be very costly depending on the size of the collection. Consider taking anywhere from three to five books with you and then look for an English-language bookstore upon your arrival to rebuild your collection. If all else fails, consider buying an ereader for your move. This is a lighter alternative, but it will be an investment.
Buying Gifts
Are you moving internationally back home? For example, maybe you’ve been living in another country for a work project the last six months to a year. If this is the case, consider bringing home gifts for your family. Shop for the gifts two weeks prior to your departure so you are not in panic mode while also trying to pack for the international move.
One Last Sweep
As your packing concludes, it’s time to perform one last sweep of your residence. Be sure you have either packed everything you intend to bring or have gotten rid of what you don’t need. Check all the surfaces in your home, including countertops, furniture tops and even the refrigerator.
