For people moving out of the United States, preparing may result in a lot of confusion. This isn’t like moving to a new home a few miles away. There are a lot more things to consider.
Packing presents a particularly hard challenge. If you’re in this situation, you’ll need to make several decisions before starting.
Downsizing Is a Must
Downsizing has never been more critical than it is now. You must purge your home to make your move overseas as light as possible.
You’re about to have a new start in another country, which means there’s no reason to bring things you don’t use. If it doesn’t serve an important function, it’s time to get rid of it.
For items that have sentimental value, consider putting them in storage or asking a relative to hold onto them for you. When it comes to other things you’re getting rid of, earn a little extra cash by having a garage sale.
Secure Important Documents
Regardless of whether you’re shipping your items via boat or plane, you need to ensure your sensitive documents are safe. This includes things like birth certificates, medical documents, college records, and financial documents.
You should first make copies of all these materials. Then, secure them in a water-tight sleeve. You can even consider shipping them in a locked box.
When packing sensitive documents, think about what you’ll need during your travels. You’ll need to keep your passport and any visa information with you.
Packing Your Clothes
When packing, clothing takes up a lot of space. You’ll likely have items you won’t want to leave behind. However, you’ll need to let some things go.
Make sure you understand what the weather is like in the country you’re moving to. There’s a chance some of your clothes won’t serve a purpose after you move.
Consider investing in vacuum-sealed bags. They reduce the amount of space your clothes take up and also protect them.
Keep an Inventory
As you’re packing, it’s essential to keep a detailed inventory of your items. This is crucial if you’re shipping a large volume.
Use an electronic spreadsheet, so you don’t misplace it. To keep things organized, inventory your items by room.
This inventory will come in handy when checking to make sure everything made the trip. It’ll also help you plan when speaking with movers about the transition.
Use a Professional for Specialty Items
You’ll most likely use a professional mover when relocating overseas. However, they must accommodate all your requirements.
If you have specialty items like artwork, antiques, or vehicles, you’ll need to work with a company that has experience moving these items. The last thing you want is to arrive in another country to discover your valuables sustained damage.
