Nothing is more exciting than being asked to move internationally for work. However, before you charge your video camera and start packing your figurine collection, you should slow down and think about the complexities of moving overseas. Here are two tips for a successful international relocation, so that you don't end up dealing with unhappy surprises.

1: Reserve a Storage Unit

Although the cost of living in the United States can vary significantly from place to place, you can find a large apartment just about anywhere. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case when you move overseas. Because some countries are much more densely populated, your housing options might be severely limited, which could cause a problem if you pack too much stuff.

In fact, while the average American apartment runs about 2,300 square feet, the average flat in the UK is only around 818 square feet; less than ½ of the size. If you decide to ship that giant sectional and your big screen TV, you might be left trying to sell your things in another country. To make things easier, consider reserving a storage unit.

Storage units are inexpensive, with the average 10x20 foot unit starting at around $95 per month, and your employer might even foot the bill. As you pack, think about how likely you are to need each item abroad. Leave behind large furniture, unnecessary collections, and clothing that you don't actually wear. You never know how large your new place will be, but by moving less, you can have a little room to grow.

2: Pack Your Carry-On Wisely

If you are planning to move internationally, your employer will probably pay a global moving company to help you to pack and ship your belongings. Although you might be tempted to let them pack all of your stuff, there are a few things you need to carry with you during the actual transition. Here are some items that you should keep in your carry-on:

  • Paperwork: To fend off emergency rummages through closed boxes, never pack any work visas, identification cards, car titles, or other important paperwork. Instead, keep all of your important paperwork with you during the move and corresponding flight.   
  • Overnight Essentials: Sometimes when people think about their move abroad, they assume everything will go according to plan. If your transfer to that new country will only take a day, you might not be too worried about packing a toothbrush or a change of clothes. However, you never know when your flight will be delayed or when you might end up having trouble getting into the country. Always pack an overnight bag for each member of your family, so that you are prepared for any situation.
  • Valuables: After meeting your kind and honest movers, you might not have a problem packing your expensive jewelry or valuable baseball card collection. However, what most people don't realize is that some moving companies simply will not transport valuables due to liability concerns. If you have items that are worth a lot of money, consider leaving them behind with a trusted relative, or toting them on your own.

Packing your carry-on the right way might help you to get through customs a little quicker, and avoid travel disasters. If you have questions about what to pack and what to leave behind, talk with your global moving company or a place like Hollander Storage & Moving. They might have useful information that can help you to make the right decisions, so that you don't find yourself in a bind later.

Taking the right steps to prepare for your move abroad might help you to streamline the process, so that you can take in the sights.  

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