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Lock, Stock, and Barrel: The Basics of Moving to a New Country

Globalization has made us citizens of the world. Whether it be a new job or better living standards, there is a growing trend of people picking up their entire lives and moving to new places. Although the logistics of transporting your entire household to a different country may seem daunting, it can be relatively stress-free with a few pointers.

Getting Down to Brass Tacks

1. Keep your paperwork ready: If you’re planning to move overseas, passports and visas are the first things you need to acquire. Each country has its own specific requirements. Find out what are the requisites for your new country. There are different types of visas and your family members may need work, student, or visitor visas. Original documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of age or residency are essential. It is advisable to procure all these documents and keep them ready. Visit the embassy or consulate of the country to speak with an official. This will ensure you have correct and up-to-date information.

2. Choose a reliable moving company: Hire an international moving company that has the most experience of working in the country that you’re moving to. The search for a reliable and affordable moving company may take time, and it is advisable to start as early as possible. Speak to a representative and find out about decisive factors such as shipping time, insurance, and customer service in the new country.

3. To ship or not to ship: Shipping can often be slow and expensive. Carefully consider what can be purchased later and what you need to carry. If you’re on medication, carry a few months’ worth of medicines as it may be a while before you can find alternatives. Essentials such as important documents and personal belongings should be carried with you and not shipped. If you’re planning to ship your car, find out whether it would be more economical to buy one there. Special duties or tariffs on car imports can set you back by a hefty sum. Discuss shipping charges with your mover and visit the embassy to find out terms and conditions related to shipping.

4. Choose a good school before moving: Children often find it difficult to cope with relocating to a new country. A good environment at school can ensure that they adjust well to their new home. Find out what are the different curricula and facilities available and if there are any language issues. You can also ask expatriates or the embassy to recommend well-known schools in your new neighborhood.

5. Provide alternate contact information to friends and relatives: Arrange an alternate phone number or local number where your friends and relatives can reach you once you’ve moved. Make sure you’re phone is accessible till the time you’ve left your country. This will also help the movers to stay in touch with you. Try to access e-mails regularly.

Keeping All Bases Covered

Moving to a new country may seem like a huge leap of faith. In many ways, it is. But if you do your groundwork well, the process of relocating can be smooth and orderly and you will be home safe in no time.

Grace is an expert associated with emigrate.co.uk, the foremost emigration advice site in the United Kingdom that provides the latest news on emigration and immigration, along with comprehensive guides on how to emigrate to Australia and many other countries in the world.