With ongoing globalisation, international moves are becoming more and more common for all sorts of reasons. Relocating for work is one of the most frequent.
A move on its own is already an activity that requires attention to countless details and can end up being a source of worry and stress.
Add in the fact that you’re changing countries, and the challenge can grow exponentially. But if you approach it knowing what to expect, you can come through it successfully.
Getting ready
There are a number of things you need to know and check well before the move itself to smooth the way.
Looking up the laws of your destination country —all the health restrictions and any other rules for entering its territory— is a step that can save you time, hassle and even money.
It’s worth contacting the embassy of the destination country so they can brief you on the details of your arrival, whether you need a sponsor or someone responsible for you, and many other points.
You should register your entry with the authorities so you can access support or protection in case of an emergency or unexpected event.
Choose only what you really need from the belongings you’ll be taking. Many things that seem like everyday items simply won’t be possible or sensible to bring.
This list of items, drawn up carefully and precisely, will be requested at customs when you arrive.
Research which companies carry out international removals. Get in touch with the ones offering the best benefits and convenience, and ask for quotes tailored to what you need.
Take out international removals insurance to cover any unexpected event during the transport of your belongings.
Emotional decisions
Deciding which belongings go and which stay is no easy choice. Personal items, essentials, things with sentimental value, documents… there are many distinctions to make when packing.
Taking a whole life with you in a single move is a serious matter. But you also have to face the reality that many things will be easier to buy once you arrive than to pay high costs to ship the ones you already own.
Once you have your quote, you’ll be able to decide clearly what stays and what comes with you.
Packing is crucial
Handling the packing of your belongings properly is key to ensuring everything arrives in good condition, without damage.
Bubble wrap will protect your most delicate items, such as crockery, glassware and the like.
Important documents and papers are best carried in your hand luggage, inside waterproof envelopes.
Fragile pieces such as paintings, artwork, instruments and similar items should ideally travel in custom-made special packaging that keeps them safe.
If you’re taking a range of items in boxes, each one must be listed for the relevant customs check.
Various budgets
The cost of an international move can vary depending on the type of transport you use. The options are air, land or sea transport, according to the case and destination.
Another decisive factor affecting the final amount is the volume of items to be moved.
It can change by several thousand euros if you go from shipping a few items to a move that includes everything from a home plus vehicles.
The quickest and easiest way to get an idea of the cost is to request an online quote from an international removals company you trust.
One option that may raise the cost slightly, but reduces the fallout from unexpected events and accidents, is taking out insurance for the move through the chosen removals company.
In our area there are several international removals services to choose from.
These companies handle all the legal paperwork, packing and tax costs, if you ask them to.
Seek proper advice in advance and let expert hands guide you to make your move to another country smoother and more successful.
Clients can also arrange the move’s insurance through their own insurer; it’s not essential to take it out through the removals company.
At Mudanzas Trallero we specialise in international moves from Barcelona and Madrid. Ask us for a no-obligation quote and we’ll handle everything for you.
