Relocating to another country or returning to your home country after time abroad can get complicated fast. It’s not something most families are prepared for. The logistics, paperwork, and constant decision-making raise the stress level quickly. That’s where Isaac’s Moving & Storage comes in. As experienced international movers, we’ve handled these challenges countless times. Our team manages the details, coordinates every step, and keeps your relocation moving forward without unnecessary setbacks.
If you are considering a move to another country, here are some tips on moving internationally that can help you prepare!
What You Need to Know For an International Move
Relocating abroad comes with challenges that affect your entire routine, from finances to housing to adjusting to a new language. If you’re moving with your whole family, finding potential apartments, managing essential items, and even packing your kids’ favorite toys becomes part of the equation. The more preparation you put in upfront, the easier it is to feel settled once our movers arrive. Use these tips on moving internationally to start the process:
1) Choose an international mover with a solid reputation
At Isaac’s, we know that moving abroad involves more than packing and transport. It means dealing with shipping, permits, documentation, and legal hurdles. Our international moving experts have decades of experience navigating these systems. Our professional movers also understand the challenges involved in crossing borders and moving overseas; we know how to protect your move from delays and complications. From the beginning, we do all the work and walk you through every phase.
2) What to look for in an international mover:
Your mover should maintain active partnerships in your destination country, like Isaac’s, to make sure your move continues smoothly after arrival. As proud members of FIDI and IAM, Isaac’s is part of a vetted global network of trusted partners.
We understand customs laws, minimize delays, and handle your belongings with care. Our team will disassemble large items, pack your belongings for long-distance transport, and reassemble them in your new home.
Our comprehensive international services mean you won’t have to juggle multiple vendors or coordinate logistics in your new destination.
3) Get your papers in order and make copies
International moves require a lot of legal and personal important documents. Get your passports and visas updated early, and speak to your mover about what else you’ll need. Common documents include your birth certificate, marriage certificates, school records, and medical records. If needed, translate and notarize them before you leave. Scan everything and store copies both on your computer and in the cloud.
4) Take the opportunity to de-clutter
Shipping fees add up fast. Taking every item you own to a new country isn’t always worth the cost. Sort through your things and decide what stays, what goes, and what goes into storage. Be practical and start early. Items like small appliances, older furniture, or clothes you rarely wear might not be worth bringing. Think about how much stuff you really need and how much space you’ll have in your new city.
5) Keep it Simple
Shipping a car into another country can be tricky. Some countries require modifications or inspections before the car can be registered. Ask yourself if local mechanics will be able to service your make and model. Something as basic as brake pads or a headlight bulb could be hard to find.
6) Practicalities
You’ll need to update your bank accounts, phone plan, and health coverage once you settle in. In the meantime, talk to your phone provider about international plans to cover your first week or two. Consider travel insurance until you get access to local services. If your bank has a partner institution overseas, you’ll avoid extra fees when withdrawing money. Ask your new employer for help finding doctors and other providers who work well with US citizens and other newcomers. Bring your driver’s license and know when you’ll need a local replacement.
7) Bring Money
Cash in the local language’s currency is helpful, especially for cabs or groceries. Many places won’t take foreign cards. Avoid changing currency at the airport. Look for better rates elsewhere. Estimate your initial costs and have access to enough funds to cover essentials. Running out of money on arrival is one problem you don’t want to deal with.
8) Use the Orientation Visit to get Organized
If your new job or relocation package includes a visit to your future destination, use it well. Beyond exploring the area, visit local banks, look into sim card options, scout schools, and talk to locals. The more you can set up before the move, the easier it’ll be to settle into your new surroundings.
9) Speak to Other Expats
Other fellow expats who are used to living abroad can be your best resource. Ask about their experience moving abroad, and what helped or slowed them down. They may offer advice you won’t hear from companies or guides and it can make all the difference, especially when it comes to relocating with kids or finding support systems in a foreign country.
10) Take some basic language training
You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing a few basic phrases will make a big difference. We recommend starting language lessons early. This not only builds confidence but helps you settle into your new location, culture and life abroad more quickly.
11) Join online discussion communities
Groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, and relocation forums are full of insights. You might even find creative solutions, like swapping a car with someone local instead of paying to ship yours. Some expat forums share packing tips, tax prep lists, and housing checklists. Use these more resources to make informed decisions and cut down on trial and error.
Start Your Move with a Trusted International Moving Company – Isaac’s Moving & Storage
Relocating to a new country takes preparation, experience, and a reliable team who knows how to manage every detail. At Isaac’s Moving & Storage, international moving and international shipping methods are two of our core specialties. We help you stay on track, protect your belongings, and make the most of your new adventure. From the first call through your first night in your new home, we handle the complete move, so you can focus on your future.
Contact Isaac’s Moving & Storage today to speak with an international moving expert and take the first step toward your next chapter.
