Your top 4 questions on moving abroad answered
Moving to a new country marks the beginning of the next big chapter in your life, but while the idea of the move might seem simple enough, packing up everything you own certainly is not. From fragile electronics to sentimental items, you need to ensure everything you take with you arrives just as safely as you do. Naturally, questions will start to pile up, but rest assured we have heard them all, and we are here to answer some of the biggest ones for you:
How do I begin sorting through my belongings?
Before even thinking about how you will adapt to your new life, you must consider what you will actually bring. Whether you are planning on living overseas permanently or for a specific period of time, choosing what you take with you may result in far more than what fits in a suitcase. So, let’s break this down and take it room by room. Taking the time to review your possessions early will help you see the scale of what will be joining you, and avoid any surprises.
How do I ensure my possessions survive the journey?
After finalising what will be joining you, the next thing you may notice is that larger items need proper packaging, as do sentimental ones. That means anything from a TV to a box of children’s toys must be carefully prepared to travel overseas. But you can rest assured your belongings will be handled exactly as they should be, as we have over 40 years of experience dealing with international removals.
How do I handle the customs paperwork?
Now that you know your possessions will be handled securely, you must ensure that what you intend to send will actually be allowed past the border. Declarations at a country’s border are an important part of any international migration, and there are often strict import rules to abide by. To avoid costly delays, keep your paperwork specific and accurate – avoiding generic labels like “kitchen stuff”. It is also best to unbox brand-new items, as goods mistaken for commercial imports will trigger extra fees.
How do I plan my arrival?
Sea freight transit can take several weeks to a few months depending on your destination, meaning your container will not arrive when you do. But this wait doesn’t have to come with uncertainty. One of the upsides of modern international travel is that PSS will provide you with regular tracking and dedicated shipment updates, meaning that you can be prepared for when your possessions catch up to you in your new home.
Let us handle the heavy lifting
Moving your life across the world is a major milestone, and having questions along the way is completely natural. While we answered some of the big questions we receive regularly, there are more that can be answered. Simply contact our friendly team today and we can provide you with a free quote to aim for a smooth, stress-free journey.