packing for an international move

Packing For An International Move

Learn about packing for an international move

cross country movers

Packing For An International Move


Preparing for an international move can be an exciting time. Whether it’s for a new job, a family relocation, or something you’ve always wanted to do, with a little planning and organization this large task can be transformed into a seamless and fun endeavor.

Organize


While simultaneously organizing things such as: visas, work permits, where to live, health insurance, schools etc. you will also need to begin thinking about what you’ll be moving, and start packing up your belongings. This is a good time to create a Moving Timeline. When moving internationally, it’s very important to understand the delivery time frames. It can often take weeks, even months for your belongings to travel overseas. With this in mind, and dependent on your moving needs, you’ll want to give yourself as much time as possible to begin organizing and packing for your international move. Knowing that you might be without your belongings for a certain amount of time, possibly longer, due to any unforeseeable delays should be considered in your planning process. Pack separately and transport with you any items you or your family will need, to ensure comfort for the first few days upon arrival.

What Will You Take?


Once it has been established how long you’ll be gone, you can then begin deciding what to take. Moving from one place to another, especially overseas, is a good opportunity to assess your belongings and Downsize your Home. If there are certain pieces of furniture or other items that will make your transition more comfortable, and make you feel at home in another country, consider taking these with you. When going through your belongings and figuring out what to keep, compare costs of shipping your belonging internationally or storing them for a period of time. An alternative option to consider is to sell or donate some, or all of your belongings and replace them with new items. As you contemplate your options, take into consideration that certain things are more expensive in other countries, and might be irreplaceable.

Knowing What You Can Move


Prior to making any final decisions about what you’ll be taking, being informed about any restrictions, import fees and duty costs of the country you are moving to, could save you a lot of time, money and aggravation. Contacting the consulate, or checking the official website can provide you relevant information on any restrictions.

Moving Electronics


If you’re considering moving any electrical items, you’ll want to make sure they’re compatible with the voltage output in the new country. If you’re unsure, it might be best not to take those items. Ensuring you have adapters and transformers for your mobile electronics, such as laptops, phones etc. is important, as these can be expensive or might even be unavailable in the country you plan to live in.

How To Ship Your Belongings


Once you have an idea of what you would like to move, begin researching shipping options, reputable international moving companies and the process of International Shipping. As you start to receive estimates and understand costs of shipping, you may reconsider what to take. Perhaps you will shed more, maybe even add a few belongings. It might be worth that little bit extra to have something you cherish be with you in your new international home.

During this very busy time of planning and organizing an international move, remember to keep in mind that soon you will be on another continent exploring a whole new culture.

Storage Locations

Los Angeles
5698 Bandini Blvd B.
Bell, CA 90201
P: 888-680-7200 Ext. 102
CA - NY Express Cross Country Movers Los Angeles
Movers from LA to NYC
San Francisco
745 85th Ave
Suite L. Oakland, CA 94621
P: 888-680-7200 Ext. 135
CA - NY Express Cross Country Movers San Francisco
Movers from SF to NYC
New York
210 Meadowlands Pkwy d,
Secaucus, NJ 07094
P: 888-680-7200 Ext. 131
CA - NY Express Cross Country Movers New York
Movers from NYC to SF & LA

Business Hours(PST)

Monday: 8am - 4pm
Tuesday: 8am - 4pm
Wednesday: 8am - 4pm
Thursday: 8am - 4pm
Friday: 8am - 4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Shannon L.
Shannon L.
Jan 5, 2024

Movers who packed my things up in NY were great. I was also very impressed with how clear everything was, how fast the move coordinator Eric was with getting back to me. Read more testimonials

Danielle
Danielle Francisco
Feb 11, 2024

Terrific experience with Andres and his team. They were quick, efficient and very knowledgeable. Read more testimonials

Ria B.
Ria B.
Jan 10, 2024

Everything went smoothly with CA-NY Express Movers. They packed up my apt in NYC in no time, put it into storage for me while we found our new house. Read more testimonials

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