This comprehensive plan will take you through all the crucial steps you need to prepare for an international move, starting three months before your move date. We’ll cover topics including packing, attesting documents, settling school and work affairs, and preparing your home for departure.
Let’s break down this journey week by week:
#12 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Research and Planning
Start by getting to know more about your destination. Look at the living costs, culture, and local customs. Get a basic understanding of the local language: research local school systems and work environments.
- 2. Gather Documents
Begin to gather personal documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, driver’s licenses, social security cards, tax records, medical records, and school records. These documents need to be attested, so starting early will save you time later.
- 3. Medical Check-up
Book appointments for full medical check-ups for each family member. This will also be an opportunity to discuss vaccinations needed for the new country.
#10 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Sorting and Decluttering
Go through every room in your home and decide what items to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This will help to reduce the volume of goods to be packed and shipped, potentially saving you money.
- 2. School and Work Transition
Contact the current schools and employers to inform them about your upcoming move. Gather all the necessary documentation needed for transferring to new schools and jobs.
#8 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Attestation of Documents
Start the process of attesting your documents. This process can take some time, so starting early is beneficial. Remember, the requirements for document attestation can vary by country.
- 2. Choose a Reliable Moving Company
Research and select a reputable international moving company. They can provide a quote for the services you’ll need, including packing, loading, shipping, and unloading your belongings.
#6 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Begin Packing Non-Essentials
Start packing items you don’t use daily, such as off-season clothes, books, and decorations.
- 2. Apply for Visas and Work Permits
Start applying for the necessary visas and work permits for your destination country.
- 3. School and Work Update
Notify new schools and workplaces about your arrival and provide them with any necessary documents.
#4 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Utilities and Services Update
Start cancelling or transferring utilities and services.
- 2. Health Insurance
Check the health insurance requirements in your new country and arrange for appropriate coverage.
- 3. Banking
Notify your bank about your move and explore options for international banking.
#2 Weeks Before the Move:
- 1. Finish Packing
Notify new schools and workplaces about your arrival and provide them with any necessary documents.
- 2. Confirm Travel Details
Confirm the date and time of your flight or travel. Ensure your accommodations are set up for when you arrive in your new home country.
#1 Week Before the Move:
- 1. Finalize All Preparations
Pay any remaining bills, pick up last-minute prescriptions, and ensure all your documents are in order.
- 2. Pack an Essentials Box
Pack a box or suitcase with items you’ll need immediately after your move, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and necessary electronics.
#Moving Day:
- 1. Check Every Room
Do a final walkthrough of your home, checking every cupboard and room to ensure nothing has been left behind.
- 2. Meet with Movers
Meet with the movers, oversee the packing and loading process, and provide them with the correct new address.
- 3. Say Goodbye
Spend some time saying goodbye to your home, friends, and city.
Your international move should go smoothly with careful planning, organization, and coordination. Safe travels, and enjoy the new adventure that awaits you!
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