The choice is easier if
you have already purchased or rented residence overseas. If one knows
the approximate size of the rooms and has a floor plan, you will be
able to easily determine just how smartly your furniture and appliances
will fit. Our expert advise in this case, would be to have you make
certain that the delivery into your residences will not cause any
insurmountable problems due to, for example, a piano, oversized entertainment
center, or furniture. You should consider hallway and stairway dimensions,
elevators/lifts may sometimes be too small to transport some large
items.
The decision as to what
to ship can often be more difficult for those individuals who do not
have definite housing arrangement already made. Make sure the articles
selected are not only desirable for your new home, but also worthwhile
to ship.
Everyone should know their
rights with respect to customs regulation. Laws are often subject
to change. Information may be obtained from the Consulate's Office,
but bare in mind that Euro Transport Intl representatives are very
knowledgeable regarding rights and customs information.
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Try to
avoid a last minute rush. Moving overseas is complex
and will take time to arrange. Generally a mover will need 4 weeks'
notice and you will require a similar timeframe for planning paperwork
etc.
-
You will
need to meet with the movers personally; there
is a lot to learn so please do not subjugate this responsibility
to nannies, maids, neighbours, etc. It may well require you take
a little time off work; however, most movers will schedule meetings
first thing or late afternoon to minimise disruption.
-
Try and
get 2 or 3 quotes not necessarily to obtain the
lowest price but to compare the services available.
Ask other expats or your company for recommended movers.
-
Talk
to other expatriate families or individuals, who either
live or have lived in your destination city. They will give you
a valuable insight into local conditions and movers to use.
-
Check
with the embassy
of your host country for advice on visas, inoculations
and other requirements.
-
Try and
attend a cross-culture briefing
so that you are
aware of the differences between your host country and your own.
Culture shock, especially for spouses, is the single biggest reason
for early termination of overseas assignments.
-
Ensure
that remuneration and benefits on offer are commensurate
with maintaining a reasonable lifestyle in your host country.
Bear in mind how different the cost of living can be overseas.
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If you
have a family, try and schedule your move during school
breaks to ensure your children settle in well.
-
Start
organising your move early
-- dispose of unnecessary / items not required. Think of items you
will need urgently (clothing / papers / the baby furniture etc.)
and consider air freighting or taking these with you personally.
Separate out items that will not work (electrical?) or will not
be suitable in your host country and earmark these for storage or
to be left in your home.
Moving
tips
