10 tips for shipping your belongings
It is a lot of work to move possessions to another country, especially if you are moving abroad with children or planning to bring your pet on an international adventure.
At a time when stress levels are high, careful consideration of the shipping company you choose, how you prioritise what to bring and how you pack, will have an impact on your overall moving experience:
Do your research when it comes to choosing a shipping company. Although time and budget may constrain your choices somewhat, shortlist companies that:
There are several service levels offered by international moving companies. The right option for you will be based on budget and whether you have secured accommodation in your new home:
Full service: includes a packing service as well as shipping belongings from your existing home to your new home abroad. Although this is the most expensive option, it may save you so much time that the extra cost is well worth it.
Door to door: the moving service collect your packed belongings from your home and move them to your new address.
Port to port: you must drop your packed possessions to the port and they must then be collected from the port at your destination. This may work well if you have not found accommodation yet and you have a mode of transport to get your belongings from the port to your home.
This step is critical to save you time, space and money during your move. We all accumulate ‘stuff’ if we have been living in the same place for a number of years. Take some time to consider the items that are really important to you. Sub-divide the big-ticket items in your home and wardrobe into five categories:
It might be helpful to use coloured stickers to identify each category. Storing items while you are living overseas is going to be an ongoing cost, so consider what you include carefully.
Last but by no means least, consider moving insurance. Although global mobility means shipping possessions abroad is much more common, accidents do happen. Make sure the important things in your life are protected.
While you are planning your international move, take the pressure off by letting us help you find the right international health insurance to meet your needs.
