The Dos and Don’ts of International Moving: Tips for a Successful and Exciting Move with Corrigan Moving Systems

An international move can be one of the most transformative experiences of your life. Whether you’re moving to be closer to family, seeking a new career opportunity or simply embracing the culture of your dreams, your relocation is the first step toward your new life.

Of course, before arriving at your new home, you have to consider the planning and preparation it takes to get there. Check out the do’s and don’ts of international moving below.

Do Choose a Reliable and Experienced International Moving Company

One of your first steps for an international relocation should be choosing a seasoned moving company. The right movers can provide best practices for adjusting to new locations, meeting customs requirements and navigating shipping options. Keep these factors in mind when choosing an international moving company:

• Experience: Look for businesses with a proven track record in the moving industry. Evaluate the company’s resources and capabilities. It’s also a good idea to check out reviews to see what previous customers have to say about their experience. Corrigan Moving Systems was founded in 1929, and we have many customer testimonials to back us up.
• Service options: A lot of steps go into any move. From packing to storage to car shipping, a reliable moving company will offer comprehensive service options to meet every need. Corrigan Moving Systems covers the bases with packing and unpacking services, efficient auto transport, comprehensive storage solutions and more.
• Licenses and certifications: The proper licenses and certifications are crucial for international moving. Corrigan Moving Systems possesses the necessary documents for international moving and connects with global organizations to ensure high-quality moving solutions. 

Do Understand Customs Regulations and Requirements

Staying ahead of customs regulations and requirements is one of the best tips for international moving. Customs regulations vary by country, so it’s important to do your research. Gather all the necessary documentation, understand the country’s limitations on items you can bring, and complete an item inventory of your belongings.

Corrigan Moving Systems can help you navigate customs requirements. We’ll team you up with a single point of contact to answer questions and assist in your move. Our Global Relocation Specialists ensure shipments meet clearance laws and complete the necessary documentation to avoid delays.

Do Declutter Before Moving

Your relocation is a chance to start fresh, and decluttering is a great way to streamline the moving process and ensure you have everything you need at your new home. The more items you can discard or donate, the fewer boxes you’ll have to pack and unpack. Decluttering can also help you stay organized, ensuring you can easily find what you need when you walk through the door. 

Here are some decluttering tips to get you moving:

• Start with rooms and spaces you use the least.
• Tackle one room or area at a time.
• Create piles for donating, discarding and packing.
• Consider how often you use or need every item.
• Shred old documents you know you don’t need.
• Get rid of clothes you haven’t worn in over a year.

Do Pack Smartly With Stress-Free Packing Tips

Rather than tossing all your clothes in one box and cooking utensils in another, take time to implement packing tips. Consider the items that need a little more attention for safe traveling and determine the right supplies to make transport easier. Professional packing services can be super helpful for an international move. 

Corrigan Moving Systems’ packing services promote stress-free moving by implementing a strategic system. We’ll customize our approach to meet your needs — and we’ll use high-quality packing materials to reduce the risk of damage.

Do Communicate Effectively With Your International Moving Company

Communication is key for most things, and moving is no different. Stay in contact with your international moving team through the entire process. Ask questions and voice concerns as they arise for quick resolution. 

When you work with Corrigan Moving Systems, you can expect seamless coordination at every step. We’ll provide tips for international moves, help you stay on track and offer any assistance you need to streamline the process. 

Do Embrace the Adventure and Opportunities of an International Move

An international move can be a life-changing experience. Keeping a positive outlook and finding ways to get excited about your relocation can make the process feel more rewarding.

Research your new country, practice the language and dive into the culture. Embrace the moving process with open arms and be adaptable if surprises show up along the way — it’s all part of the journey.

Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Planning and Preparation

Preparation is the key to a seamless moving experience. Plan as far in advance as you can, creating a comprehensive timeline and checklist to guide you through the process. Early planning can help you stay organized and keep things from falling under the radar. 

Here are a few important steps for your checklist:

• Gather all important documents, including birth certificates, passports, driving licenses, Social Security cards and marriage certificates.
• Review tax obligations and understand provisions to lower liabilities.
• Consider storage requirements for items you won’t be taking immediately.
• Look into travel and life insurance options to make sure you’re completely covered.
• Notify the relevant people and organizations about your move, including the postal service, utility companies, employers, Social Security Administration and tax agencies.
• Set up bank account transfers, cancel subscriptions and inapplicable insurance policies, complete mail forwarding, and take care of any financial tasks.

Don’t Forget About Moving Valuation for Your Belongings

Moving valuation protects your belongings and helps you recoup value if an item is lost, damaged or destroyed in the move. You can find varying levels of coverage, including free options from your moving company. You can also opt for full coverage, which will ensure you receive the complete value of your item if damage occurs. 

We recommend talking with one of our moving consultants to determine the costs of various valuation options and which makes the most sense for you.

Don’t Procrastinate and Risk Delays

The sooner you finalize your plans, the better. Procrastination can quickly result in delays and stress that impede your moving experience. Last-minute planning could result in unorganized packing, forgotten tasks and missed deadlines. 

Stay calm and collected by implementing these tips:

• Keep a visual schedule on your phone, calendar or notebook.
• Get as much help as possible from a moving company.
• Complete tasks little by little rather than all at once.
• Cross tasks off your to-do list as you complete them. 
• Prioritize time-sensitive tasks.
• Break large tasks into smaller steps. 
• Reward yourself with breaks.

Choose Corrigan Moving Systems for Your International Relocation

While the moving process can be a little different for everyone, these international relocation tips can help you streamline and simplify the process. Planning early, completing tasks little by little, and requesting help from professional movers are the best ways to get from point A to point B with minimal stress and fewer surprises. 

With Corrigan Moving Systems, you can expect a seamless moving experience. Our team has almost a century of relocation experience, so you can feel confident in our knowledge and expertise. Request a consultation or personalized quote to see how we can help you get your move on!