Useful information on moving overseas
Most popular overseas relocation destinations
You’ve decided to move abroad. It may seem scary at firs but we’re here to help make things easier. We’re partnered with expert international removal companies to help you move to your new home.
You can find information on our most popular international destinations:
If it’s your first time moving to Europe we also have guides covering everything you need to know about moving abroad to Europe or moving to London from overseas.
We also have plenty of international moving guides covering everything else you'd need to know on moving abroad.
Overseas shipping options
All overseas removals have different options available when it comes to shipping. Your international removal company will run through the best options with you, but it will be one of the below options:
This is the most common and cost-effective option for long distance removals abroad. This involves transporting a shipping container with your belonging via sea and then using road transport to deliver them to your house on the other side.
Road Freights are normally recommended for European removals and use a combination of road, ferry and train networks to get your personal belongings safely to your new home.
This option is more expensive than the others but it significantly quicker. Air Freights are normally only used for long distance moves where important items are needed quickly because of the expense.
Moving your pets abroad
Moving to a new country is stressful for everyone involved, including your pets. However our overseas removal firms can help make that easier for both you and your furry friends.
There are lots of things to consider when it comes to moving your pet abroad with you, such as passports, transportation and stress but we’ve created a guide to moving overseas with pets which should help make the whole thing easier on you.
Find an expert international removals firm
The best way to ensure a smooth process when moving abroad is to find a trustworthy, cost effective, international removals service that won’t leave anything to chance.
It's vital you choose a shipping company associated with a recognised and trusted trade body like the British Association of Removers (BAR), especially when moving overseas.
Your belongings will be transported by ship, by air or land to another part of the world, so you want to be sure that the company you’re entrusting them to is experienced, professional, and in possession of appropriate licensing and insurance.
At reallymoving we offer you directly comparable free quotes from international removals companies which could save you time and money. If you would like to get an idea of the costs of your relocation including timescales use our international moving cost calculator.
International removals insurance
Look for an international removals firm which is part of an association like the BAR. An association like this will automatically entitle international movers to certain protections.
Check what protection for your goods is offered by the removals company. Standard protection is often minimal, so it’s advisable to take out marine insurance or international removal insurance. Your international removal company may be able to arrange this.
International packing services
We recommend that your international removals firm packs your belongings. They are aware of any item restrictions and local customs regulations, and are experienced in packing goods safely.
If transporting by land, the packing procedure is similar to a domestic move. Your possessions will go in one or more trucks and be driven to your new home. This might take several days depending on the destination, even if you are just moving a few hours across the channel.
If you are sending your belongings by sea, they will be packed at your house into one or more containers. You will be charged by volume, so moving fewer items will save money, but if you fill a fraction of a container, you may be able fill it all for the same price.
When transporting belongings by air, the cost is determined by weight, not volume. You may want to consider only taking high priority bags by air.
Get your finances and documents in order
- Finances: Check what the costs and restrictions of accessing your money abroad from your current bank are, and consider switching to a bank located in the country you’re moving to.
- Immigration: You are likely to need a visa and/or work permit to work abroad. www.projectvisa.com and www.workpermit.com are good places to start.
- Ensure you bring important documents. Take passports, driving licenses, marriage certificates, medical records and other important documents with you. Make copies to ensure you have replacements if needed.
Overseas Healthcare
Vaccinations: The country you’re moving to may require you to have vaccinations and health clearances before you move. Check this and make time for this well in advance.
Different countries have different laws on what entitlements you have to healthcare. Look into and if necessary arrange local health insurance in the place you are moving for.
Compare quotes from international removals firms to save money on your move abroad today.