Moving abroad can feel like trying to solve a never-ending puzzle blindfolded. No one’s exactly a fan of frantic searches for lost items or last-minute packing frenzies. With a well-organized moving checklist, you will have a personal guide throughout the whole process, from prepping to settling into the new home. Here’s everything this all-knowing, all-seeing checklist needs to have.
Why Having a Checklist for Moving Internationally Is Non-Negotiable
When it’s time to move, it’s only natural to get overwhelmed quickly. This process is already a rollercoaster of emotions, but moving overseas cranks it up a notch. No wonder why it accounts for only 4% of all moves!
As you’re preparing for a move, your daily routine is all jumbled up, and that’s the perfect recipe for relocation stress. On top of that, as many as 80% of people experience sleep disturbances during this period. Throw in some missing kitchen items, and it’s a wonder anyone survives the process at all!
But hold up – what can make you feel like you know what you’re doing even when the whole world’s collapsing? That’s right – a good to-do list! A checklist breaks down this monumental task into manageable steps. It also ensures nothing is forgotten, from important documents to the smallest knick-knacks. Plus, ticking off tasks gives a satisfying sense of progress, helping you stay organized and calm.
Start by Circling the Date on the Calendar – The Whole Checklist Works Towards This Big Day
Choosing the date of the big moving day is crucial – it sets the tone for the entire process. Aim for a date that gives you plenty of time to prepare without interfering with your personal circumstances. Try to avoid holidays and weekends if possible, as these can be more stressful and expensive. This date becomes the anchor for your checklist, giving you a clear goal to work towards.
The First Stage – Prepping for the Big Journey Ahead
Once you’ve circled the date on the calendar, the checklist starts to come alive. The first tasks are all about laying the groundwork for a smooth move. Think of it as stretching before a marathon – you don’t want to pull a muscle right out of the gate!
Make Cents of Your Move With a Detailed Budget Plan
Creating a detailed financial plan is crucial, especially for those relocating on a low budget. Start by listing all potential expenses – movers, packing materials, travel costs, and any temporary accommodations. This helps you keep track of where the money is going and ensures you don’t end up spending the food budget on bubble wrap.
Hunt Down Those Packing Supplies
It’s obvious that you can’t pack your whole life into boxes without the right tools. So, before you really get things going, here are the usual packing materials you’ll need:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes,
- Bubble wrap and packing paper,
- Strong packaging tape,
- Markers for labeling,
- Furniture covers.
Commence the Great Purge – Keep, Toss, or Donate
Before you start packing, it’s time to channel your inner Marie Kondo and decide what stays and what to get rid of. Go through each room and sort items into three categories – keep, toss, and donate.
Sure, you can also sell some stuff and earn some extra cash for that budget, but consider donating to charities such as Goodwill as well. You’re saving just by lightening the load, so it’s a great way to bring in a feel-good factor to the otherwise stressful process. Besides, it will set you up with good karma once the big moving day comes!
A Crucial Part of Your Moving Checklist? Choosing the Right International Moving Company
Hiring movers is like getting a personal assistant for the biggest project of your life. With professional moving services, they take on the heavy lifting, literally and figuratively, making sure the belongings travel safely across borders.
The benefits are plentiful. Movers handle logistics, provide insurance, and offer full packing services, which means they can pack everything from your grandma’s china to that mountain of shoes. They’ll even make sure your extensive collection of novelty mugs makes it intact!
To Ship or Not to Ship? Your Four-Wheeler Can Join the Adventure
Deciding whether to ship your car is a biggie, no doubt about it. However, movers like Schmidt International Relocations also provide overseas vehicle shipping. You’ll be saved from the hassle of buying a new one abroad, all while keeping you behind the wheel of a familiar and cherished ride. It’s like sending the car on a first-class trip while you fly coach!
The Packing Stage – Here Are a Few Things You Simply Can’t Skip on Your Moving-Out Checklist
Packing will undoubtedly take up the biggest part of this checklist, no matter how large or small the move actually is. Really, it’s that one part of the whole ordeal that seems to stretch on forever, like a never-ending game of Tetris with your belongings.
This is because the sheer number of tasks can be overwhelming. You’ll need to sort, declutter, pack, label, and protect everything you own. From wrapping up the fragile glassware to making sure the clothes are neatly packed, each task requires attention and care. This logistical dance, if done right, can save you a ton of headaches later.
Make Sure Everything Finds Its Place With a Good Labeling System
A good labeling system can make or break this process. It’s like giving every box a name tag so nothing gets lost in the shuffle. Use clear, color-coded labels for each room, and add a brief description of the contents. This way, unpacking becomes a breeze, and you won’t have to play the guessing game when you reach the new home.
Take Special Care When Dealing with Fragile and Valuable Items
Valuable and fragile items need extra attention, obviously. Wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or packaging paper and use sturdy boxes to avoid damage. Label these boxes clearly with “Fragile” and make sure they are packed snugly to prevent shifting during the journey. Treat them like the royalty of your belongings – they deserve the extra care, and you’ll thank yourself later when everything arrives intact and unscathed.
Moving Day Checklist – Do the Final Walkthrough to Figure Out if You’ve Forgotten Anything
The big day is finally here, but don’t pop the champagne just yet – the tasks aren’t done! Before you close the door on the old place, a final walkthrough is essential to ensure nothing is left behind. Here are some key things you need to take care of:
- Turn off all lights and appliances,
- Lock all windows and doors,
- Check for forgotten items in hidden spots,
- Take out the last bit of trash,
- Leave any keys and garage remotes for the new occupants,
- Do a quick sweep or vacuum of the rooms.
Make Sure You’ve Got a Bag of Essentials Ready – It’s a Lifesaver, Literally!
Having a bag of essentials ready is a lifesaver, literally. This bag should include important items like medications, toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, snacks, and any essential documents you might need. This way, you won’t have to dig through boxes just to find the toothbrush or your favorite pajamas.
What About Settling Into the New Home? It Deserves to Be a Section of the Checklist, Too!
The tasks don’t magically end once you’ve arrived at the new destination either. Nope, settling into the new home has its own set of challenges and to-dos. Unpacking, setting up utilities, and making the place feel like home are all part of the grand finale. So, roll up your sleeves – here’s what you need to tackle:
Unpacking After the Move
Start with the essentials – kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom items should be unpacked first. This way, you can cook, clean, and sleep comfortably while you tackle the rest of the house. Set up one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed, turning each completed room into a mini victory.
Pace yourself and take breaks to prevent burnout. Remember, slow and steady wins the race. And don’t forget to recycle those packing supplies to keep the clutter at bay! Also, keep a toolkit handy for any quick fixes or furniture assembly that might pop up along the way.
Setting up Utilities and Services
Setting up utilities and services is a top priority to make the new house feel like home. Ensure the electricity, water, gas, and internet are up and running. Call ahead to schedule these services, ideally before the whole ordeal, so you’re not left in the dark (literally). Don’t forget to update the address with service providers, banks, and any subscriptions to keep everything running smoothly.
Making Your New Place Cozy
Making the new place cozy is the fun part! Start by arranging the furniture and adding personal touches like photos, plants, and your favorite decor items. Light some candles or play some tunes to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Unpack those comfort items first – things like cozy blankets, throw pillows, and treasured keepsakes. Create a cozy nook or a special spot that feels like your own retreat from all the madness. Above all, don’t rush this process – enjoy making each space uniquely yours. It’s these little touches that will make the new house feel like a true home.
Wrapping up Your Move With a Smile (And a Checklist!)
So, there you have it – the ultimate checklist to keep your sanity intact! Relocation doesn’t have to be a horror story. With a solid plan and a bit of elbow grease, you can turn all of that madness into a well-orchestrated performance.
Ready to make your move even more of a breeze? Let Schmidt International Relocations handle it all – from packing to car shipping. With our expert team by your side, you can sit back, relax, and watch as the move transforms from chaotic to smooth. Contact us today and let us make the move smooth and stress-free!
