Relocating abroad can be a daunting experience. From applying and processing visa paperwork to zeroing in on the perfect apartment at destination and from packing-in your belongings to finding the right schooling options for your children, there are a lot of things that demand your attention and time. No wonder that relocation is commonly regarded as one of the most stressful occurrence in one’s life. In addition to these concerns - settling-in at the new location can also be quite unsettling! The language barriers, the cultural differences and the prospect of starting all over again is an experience quite acutely felt by anyone who is planning to move abroad. But by choosing the right international moving company, you can make sure that your international move goes as smooth as possible.
In this article, we’ve highlighted four important – and often overlooked – considerations, below.
Pack wisely
For security reasons, many countries no longer accept shipments that are packed by the owner. In addition, any damage incurred to items you pack yourself may not be covered under transit insurance. It is therefore advisable that a moving company is engaged to pack all of your household items and personal effects. At Crown Relocations, all the crew is professionally trained and have years of experience packing people's precious belongings.
But, before packing your stuff, you’ll need to keep things like electronics, appliances, medications and important documents at the forefront of your mind. Here’s why:
- Electronics and appliances – Do check your electronics are dual voltage and compatible with the appropriate foreign outlet – if not, do not bother packing the device in first place. However, to get through the initial few days, bring along adaptors and convertors. Do bear in mind that most laptop and cellphone chargers are dual voltage, and will work in various kinds of power outlets all over the world. In case of bigger appliances, you may have to consider purchasing them all over again.
- Medications – Finding a quality physician may take time in a new city. It is better to plan ahead and bring a few months’ worth of necessary medications to get through the initial period.
- Papers and documents – Make sure that you don’t lose important documents in your moving frenzy. Ensure that documents like medical records, immunization records, school records, passports, driver’s licenses, emergency numbers and health insurance cards safe are kept in personal bags securely.
Language is the road map of a culture
It can sometimes be difficult to adapt to what may be a very different environment and culture than what you're used to. Especially when you don't speak the native language of the destination country you are in. Improved fluency will give you the confidence in both business and social situations. We offer a range of language courses, both in groups and one-to-one, specifically tailored for ability and needs of any of the family members.
Language training also enables you and your family to engage more productively with people. Our language training can teach speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, including technical terminology if needed. This training can also be used in conjunction with our Intercultural Training, giving you a comprehensive cultural and language package.
Find your way
Navigation apps like Google Maps have made finding routes quite easy and it is a boon to a person new to a city. Not only it helps you find the way to your destination, it also obviates the need to converse in local language should you find it difficult in your initial days to ask your way out. But nothing will substitute the effort one needs to make to read up on both common transportation methods and important landmarks in your new city, so that you don’t end up lost or stranded.
It is strongly recommended that you research on your city’s public transportation to find out about the area’s subway system, bus routes, bike rental amenities and ridesharing services, such as taxis or Uber. Those inclined and interested in driving a car should enquire on the need of having an International Driving Permit in the new country. Our destination services help you settle-in seamlessly and quickly in your new location. Preparation is everything, but there will always be surprises. You will need support, and we’ll be there.
Storing your belongings
When moving to a new location, you may choose to leave behind furniture which you might no longer need for it may be cumbersome transporting the entire stuff or for want of a new décor at your new home. In either case you will have to figure out what to do with your things before the move. You may either sell it or donate as much as you can. But if your move is for a shorter duration and if you’re planning to move back eventually, it is wiser to store your items in secured storage facilities.
For families that need a place to store their personal belongings at origin or destination, Crown provides short-term and long-term storage services. Our crews will pack, wrap and pick up personal belongings and deliver to one of Crown Relocations’ secure storage facilities. Whatever the reason, Crown’s storage services provide a professional and cost-effective alternative to self-storage.
If you are relocating and considering using a professional relocations service click here for a free moving quote and further information on how we can help make your relocation a success.