Although it can be immensely tempting to up sticks and move abroad, it is not something that should be done without thought. Careful consideration needs to take place, as well as planning to the minutest detail. If the move ultimately just affects you and your partner, then it can be far easier than if there are children and pets involved.
Of course, one of the main things that you should do is take your time. Do not rush; working up to the process for a year or longer will ensure that you will make the right decision, whereas only taking a month or so could end up with costly regrets and arguments.
1. Learn the native language
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If the country that you are considering moving to has a native language different from your own, you really should take the time to learn at least the basics. This will help you settle into your new homeland easier and quicker; it will also help you build that all-important social life that you will no doubt miss from your old lifestyle.
This is even more important when moving to a rural setting. This is because often rural areas have their own dialect and do not speak any other languages fluently than their own. Moving to these areas without at least the basic knowledge can come across as ignorant and unsociable.
2. Sell items that can be easily replaced
There is no doubt about it, moving abroad can be expensive. Paying out to move items you have no real emotional attachment to and that can be easily replaced is far from cost-effective. This additional money can be more readily used to help you settle into your new home or at least decorate it to your personal taste.
Of course, when moving these now unwanted items, you can give them away to friends and family or even neighbors. However, you could also sell them on sites such as eBay or Etsy and put the money toward your moving costs.
3. Choose your destination
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You should make sure you research the area that you are looking to move to. Although most regions abroad look fantastic, especially in brochures or on the internet, having a real-life taste can provide a more realistic feeling. Where possible, book a vacation, preferably two, in the area you are considering at completely different times of the year. Visit the areas at different times of the day and evening to get a feel. Where possible, speak to the local real estate agents and purchase local newspapers to get a heads-up on what you can expect.
Where to live
Of course, when you have decided on an area to move to, you should try renting there before purchasing a property. This way, if you find that you have made a mistake, you can move as soon as your tenancy is up. If you like it, you will be in a prime position to see the properties you may like come onto the market.
Where to work
Undoubtedly, you will require some work. If you are working remotely and looking to continue, then that is all well and good. However, if you are hoping to get a job after you relocate, you will have to make sure you have plenty of money to see you over the period when you may not have an income. Again, with this in mind, being able to speak the language will be a bonus and could very well make your employment chances far better.
4. Work out time schedules for moving possessions
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Working out the time schedules for moving your possessions abroad can be a headache. This is because your large items will have to be shipped via a container. If you are heading overseas, then you should be aware that it will take your possessions far longer to go by boat than if you are moving across the land. Of course, you will probably be flying, which is the quickest method of all, but apart from your luggage, everything else will have to be shipped another way.
Large items
The amount of time that you will experience will depend heavily on where you are moving from and where your destination lies. Seeking experienced and fully insured moving companies to help you with your move and advise you on a time scale for packing up and moving as well as delivery is a must.
Vehicles
Although some individuals decide to sell their vehicles, it is not a necessity. You can, if you wish, ship your vehicles via car transporters. There are various different shipping methods open to you when using the services of a shipping broker such as Shiply. For instance, there are those businesses that specialize in shipping vehicles via waterways and overseas, as well as those offering trailer services or driven by a trade plate driver.
Pets
Unfortunately, many owners decide to take the option of rehoming their pets before they leave. This can be heartbreaking for those concerned, especially the pets themselves. This is because they do not understand why they are being left. Although when handed over to a family member or friend the impact may not be so bad, handing it to an animal shelter can cause the animal to suffer from depression, abandonment issues, and ultimately behavioral issues.
However, you can opt to take your pet with you. On entry into some countries, you may have to put your animal into quarantine for a short period, but in the long term, your family will be far happier as you will all stay together.
5. Take time to say goodbye properly
Undeniably, you will want to stay in contact with your friends and family after you move, but you will very quickly find that time spent either on the phone, email, or video link is not the same as being in the same room as them. Of course, you will be able to book flights to go and see them, or they will be able to come and stay with you, but this will not happen every week or month – it may not happen even every year.
This being said, you need to spend time with them before you leave to make sure that you say goodbye properly while also building your friendship links as strongly as possible. There is never going to be a better reason for throwing a multitude of parties.
Final thoughts
It is a necessity that in-depth planning is carried out for your move to go as smoothly as possible. You will also need to keep in mind the settling-in period that you will have in your new home and surroundings. It is only an exciting adventure if everything goes well.
