International Moving Checklist

Preparing to move outside of the country can be exciting yet highly complex. U.Santini Inc. Moving & Storage advises clients in New York City and the surrounding areas to compile an international move checklist to help keep track of the numerous considerations and special arrangements these relocations require. For over 95 years, we’ve been a trusted partner in facilitating smooth transitions for families and businesses around the globe. With our professional moving solutions, storage options, and expert consultations, we’re here to make your move stress-free. Here are some key areas to include in your move’s checklist.

Plan Your Move Timeline

Timing is everything when moving internationally. Start by creating a timeline that outlines each step of your move. Factor in time for obtaining necessary visas, scheduling movers, and preparing your paperwork. Consult with a reputable international moving company like U.Santini Inc. Moving & Storage early on to align your timeline with the logistics of packing, shipping, and setting up your new home. By scheduling a pre-move consultation with us, you can customize a moving plan that ensures no detail is overlooked.

Understand Visa and Permit Requirements

Relocating abroad often requires various visas and permits for working or living in another country:

• Research Requirements – Every country has unique immigration laws. Understand whether you need a work visa, residency permit, or additional documentation.
• Set Application Deadlines – Visa applications can take weeks or months to process. Include ample lead time in your timeline.

Decide What to Move or Store

A fresh start abroad doesn’t always mean taking everything with you, especially if your move is temporary for education or work purposes. We offer convenient storage options to handle the items you leave behind so you can have peace of mind your belongings are safe and easily accessible when you need them. If you’re not moving all your property:

• Evaluate Your Belongings – Decide which items to ship, sell, donate, or place in long-term storage.
• Secure Storage Solutions – If your move is temporary or your new accommodations won’t be ready right when you arrive, consider storing large or seasonal items you won’t need immediately.

Research International Shipping and Customs

Each country has unique regulations on what items can be imported, and navigating customs requirements can be daunting. Here are some tips to avoid any surprises:

• Understand Restrictions – Research prohibited or restricted items for your destination, including electronics, plants, and certain foods.
• Calculate Duties – Some countries charge import taxes on household goods. Familiarize yourself with potential costs, especially on higher-value items.

With our comprehensive moving services, we’ll manage international shipping compliance, ensuring your household items arrive seamlessly at your new home.

Prepare Your Pets for Travel

Relocating with pets requires extra planning to meet international health requirements, which vary depending on location. Before you plan to bring pets with you:

• Check Pet Requirements – Research the vaccination, documentation, and quarantine laws in your destination country.
• Plan Their Travel – Arrange transport for your pets, ensuring their comfort and safety during the move.

Budget for Cost of Living

Moving to another country often means adjusting to differences in the cost of living. An accurate budget ensures you can sustain your new lifestyle and avoid setbacks after the move. Think about your current expenses and income:

• Research Expenses – Investigate your destination city’s average housing costs, food prices, and utilities.
• Consider Employment Changes – If you plan to find a job abroad, you should understand the local job market and employment laws.

Organize Health Care

Healthcare systems vary significantly around the world. Prepare ahead to ensure you can access medical services and that you have an insurance plan. If you have prescriptions, bring an ample supply since it might take some time to get prescriptions set up in your new destination. Planning for your health needs in advance will help you stay worry-free as you settle into your new home, and reducing stress is good for your health. Key tasks include:

• Secure Health Coverage – Research if your existing plan covers international care or if you need a new policy and what sort of waiting period might be required.
• Check Medication Access – Confirm the availability of prescribed medications in the new country.

Finalize Living Arrangements

Your new home should feel just right whether renting or buying. Our international moving services help manage your belongings through every transition, from temporary housing to unpacking in your permanent home.

• Search Housing Options – Reach out to local real estate agents or research online rental platforms.
• Temporary Accommodations – Book temporary accommodations if you’re still searching for a permanent residence. This will allow you to do more research on the area where you want to live.

Gather Important Documents

Having all your documentation organized is crucial when moving abroad, so begin compiling these documents well in advance in case you need to obtain new copies if any can’t be located:

• Legal Documents – Passports, proof of citizenship, driver’s license, birth certificate, marriage certificate, insurance policies, living wills, and other applicable documents.
• Prepare Copies – Backup passports, marriage and birth certificates, medical records, and other legal documents.
• Safeguard Originals – Store original documents in a safe, accessible location.

Let’s Make Your International Move Stress-Free

Moving overseas is undoubtedly complex, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you follow U.Santini Inc. Moving & Storage’s advice of putting together a checklist for an international move. With 95 years of expertise, we provide the perfect mix of professional guidance, expert packing services, and personalized plans to help you through every step. Every move is unique, and every country is different. While the tips above are general guidelines, be sure to reach out to local officials at your embassy or consulate in your destination’s country for detailed instructions and requirements. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss the needs for your international move.