Essential Tips for Moving Internationally: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving is never easy, but when you are moving internationally, the number of things that you need to consider increases dramatically. Planning ahead is crucial, so here are some essential things to ensure your international move goes smoothly.

1. Ensure Your Visa and Immigration Documents are in Order

The first thing to figure out when planning your international move is your Visa/immigration status. Each country has its own set of visa/immigration rules, depending on the type of visa you have applied for, such as work visas, student visas, or family reunification visas. Check your documents thoroughly and, if needed, reach out to a visa/immigration professional – or you can reach out to us and we’ll put you in touch with the right person!

2. Find the Perfect Place to Stay

The next question is where you’ll stay when you move internationally. Consider whether you are moving alone, with family, or initially alone with family joining later. Research neighborhoods that offer suitable amenities and convenient commutes. 

3. Choosing the Right Moving Company

Moving countries is not easy and, with the many things you’ve collected over the years, the task may seem daunting. But reaching out to the right moving company (like us!) can simplify the process. Professional movers will handle the logistics, ensuring your belongings are transported safely, and will help with customs paperwork to avoid delays. Read more about our moving checklist here.

4. Preparing for Moving Day: Essential Tasks

While you are waiting for moving day, here are some tasks you should not miss out on:

4.1. Collect and Organise Essential Documents

Ensure all your important documents, such as birth certificates, adoption documents, marriage certificates, identification proofs, medical records, and driving licenses, are collected and organised in one place. This helps prevent any last-minute scrambles!

4.2. Notify Necessary Parties of Your Move

Make a list of organisations and individuals that need to be informed about your move, such as your bank, local authorities, and utility providers. Update them before you move to ensure a smooth transition.

4.3. Understand New Country’s Financial and Healthcare Systems

Moving to a new country often involves changes in laws, especially regarding finances and healthcare. Research the tax system and set up necessary accounts in advance. Learn about the new healthcare system to ensure you have the required coverage. Your moving company can provide additional assistance and resources.

Moving internationally is not easy but, with the right partner, your move can be made as painless as possible. For your next move, don’t hesitate to reach out to us – the experience and support you get from using a professional company can be invaluable.

For more information, contact us at www.go-group.com – what might seem like an impossibly tough task to you, is just another day at the office for us!

Moving house, whether locally or to another country, is a significant life event that requires careful planning and execution. As relocation specialists, we are here to guide you through the essential steps involved in the moving process and highlight key things to remember for a smooth transition. Whether you're moving house within your city or relocating to another country, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the journey.

Steps for Relocating Houses

Step 1. Planning and Preparation

a. Research and Hire a Relocation Company:

Start by researching reputable moving companies with experience in both local and international moves. Look for reviews and testimonials to ensure their reliability. Get quotes from multiple companies to compare services and prices.

b. Create a Moving Checklist:

Develop a detailed checklist of tasks to complete before, during, and after the move. This will help you stay organised and ensure nothing is overlooked.

c. Set a Budget:

Establish a budget for your move, accounting for all potential expenses, including packing materials, transportation, insurance, and any additional services.

Step 2. Declutter and Organise

a. Sort Through Your Belongings:

Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will reduce the volume of items to move and help save on costs.

b. Organise Important Documents:

Gather all essential documents, such as passports, visas, medical records, and financial papers. Keep them in a secure and easily accessible place.

Step 3. Notify Relevant Parties

a. Change of Address:

Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other relevant institutions. Inform friends and family of your new address.

b. Utilities and Services:

Schedule the disconnection of utilities and services at your old home and arrange for their setup at your new location.

Step 4. Packing and Labelling

a. Gather Packing Supplies:

Obtain high-quality packing materials, including boxes, export wrap, packing paper, and tape. Obviously, if you hire us, we’ll come with these and finish the packing for you!

b. Pack Methodically:

The packing should be done room by room, and each box should be labelled with its content and destination room. 

c. Handle Valuables with Care:

Fragile & valuable items should be packed separately, using extra cushioning to prevent damage.

Step 5. Transportation and Moving Day

a. Local Moves:

For local relocations, the moving company will load your belongings onto the truck and transport them to your new home. Ensure clear communication with the movers regarding any special instructions (mention access to the property, large items for doors, will the truck get to both addresses, flights of stairs/lifts etc)

b. International Moves:

For international relocations, the company will handle shipping logistics, including customs documentation and coordination with carriers. Ensure all items meet the destination country's import regulations. Other than this don’t forget to mention details like access to the property, large items for doors, will the truck get to both addresses, flights of stairs/lifts etc.

Step 6. Unpacking and Settling In

a. Unpack Essentials First:

If you are unpacking on your own, start with essential items, such as toiletries, kitchenware, and bedding. This will help you settle in quickly. 

b. Arrange Furniture and Decor:

The next task would be to place furniture and décor in their designated rooms. Take your time to create a comfortable and organised living space.

Step 7. Post-Move Tasks

a. Inspect Belongings:

Check all items for damage and report any issues to the moving company promptly.

b. Explore Your New Neighbourhood:

Take time to explore your new surroundings, locate essential services, and meet your neighbours.

Go Expert Golden Nugget: Timing Matters

One of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of relocating houses is timing. Plan your move during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or winter, when moving companies are less busy. This not only increases the likelihood of securing your preferred moving dates but can also result in significant cost savings. Additionally, aim to move mid-month or mid-week when demand is lower, further reducing costs and ensuring a smoother relocation process.

Relocating to another country or moving house locally involves numerous steps and careful planning. By following this guide and keeping these key points in mind, you'll be well-prepared to make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible. Happy moving!

This year, Paris is host to the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the world’s largest sporting events. Starting on 26th July 2024, top athletes from around the world will gather in Paris and 16 other cities in France. They will compete in various events and competitions to represent their countries. The games will conclude on 8th September 2024.

How will the Olympics affect my shipping, storage, relocation & moving schedules?

With such a high profile, global event, there is expected to be more than 16 million spectators across the two events. The high number of people in one place at once will create difficulties for movement in and out of the area. Here are a few things to be aware of while planning moving during the Paris Olympics.

Increase in costs:

Expect rates in the area to go up considerably. This can impact anything from rental fees, storage fees, hotel costs, parking fees and many more.

Decrease in availability:

Demand for resources in the area will be under great strain due to the vast increase in people. This means accommodation, transport, storage space, etc. will be hard to come by.

Restricted movements:

There has already been some confirmed restrictions around the area to aid with security and movements for the event. Examples of potential restrictions can be high traffic concentration, lane and road closures, accidents and more. With security ramped up in the Olympic areas, it’s highly likely that we will see specific restrictions come into place across certain locations for vehicles, such as our transport vans and trucks.

Delays:

Due to the extreme demand France will face for the games, delays are almost guaranteed across several areas. Expect delays in visa processes and customs as well as extensive traffic across the involved cities. There will also be a knock-on effect to the logistics areas which will in turn mean delays on deliveries across France.

Which places will be affected?

Although the main affected areas will be the host cities, it is expected that the Olympics and Paralympics will also impact surrounding areas including the rest of France and neighbouring countries such as Spain and the UK. For instance, the UK have already confirmed an increase in security to prevent illegal crossings of the border, so expect potential delays there.

What can I do? 

Book early:

With spaces disappearing fast, if you are looking to move during the Olympic period, we would highly recommend that you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment, as we are already booking up very quickly.

Avoid Olympic dates:

If possible, consider moving either before May 2024 or after September 2024 to avoid the potential delays and complications that are expected with the Olympics.

Avoid the area:

If you can, avoid impacted areas of Paris 2024. These areas are going to be highly congested, high in demand and expensive as a result. For example, if you’re looking for temporary accommodation in the area, consider locations outside of the city that you can change once the Olympics have concluded.

Go with Go!:

This one should be clear but using Go Group for your potential moving services will save you time and money in both the long and short term. We have years of extensive experience in managing difficult situations such as this and we will ensure that you receive the best quality experience whilst we worry about the technicalities.

What can Go Group do to help?

Storage services:

Our network of storage locations across the region are available for short term storage should you need to temporarily hold your items during the Olympic period.

Moving services:

Our highly-trained professional moving teams have years of experience to help make your move possible. We have a variety of vehicles available to help avoid or ease potential restrictions whilst getting you into your new accommodation without stress.

Concierge services:

Our team are on hand to help you find whatever you need, such as accommodation or education services. We provide a personal service to make your move as simple and hassle-free as possible.

The upcoming Paris Olympics & Paralympics 2024 are generating immense excitement globally, eagerly anticipated by millions of fans. By utilizing the proven expertise of Go Group, you can alleviate the challenges and pressures that come with the games, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in one of the most anticipated sporting events worldwide. To read the official list of disruptions, click here.

April is Stress Awaresness Month, and we all know that moving house can be one of the most stress-free experiences you can have in your life. By planning ahead and working with a company like Go Group - we can help you and your family make the most of your brand new adventure and give you time to enjoy every moment of your new life together. 

April's typically also the month people start planning for the Summer months - so if you're accepting a new job in another country or going off to explore new horizons, here's some top tips from us to keep any of that move-related stress to a minimum... 

Here are a few tips to help you stay calm and organized during your move:

1. Start planning early. The earlier you start planning your move, the more time you'll have to get everything done. This will help you avoid last-minute stress and make the process more manageable.
2. Do your research on the place your going and make sure you're up to speed on any of the legal and customs requirements and paperwork you might need to do both before and after you start the process. 
3. Get organized. Once you've chosen a transportation company, it's time to start getting organized. Pack your belongings carefully and label all of your boxes. This will help you find your things quickly when you arrive at your new home. Don't forget we can help advise you on the best ways to pack so all your stuff arrives clean, dry, and iun one piece at your new home! 
4. Be prepared for delays. Moving overseas can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for delays. Pack a bag with essentials such as clothes, toys, medicines etc for your first few days in your new home, just in case your belongings don't arrive on time - and make sure you plan for insurance too just in case the worst should happen! 
5. Stay positive. Moving overseas can be a great opportunity, so try to stay positive and focus on the good things. This will help you get through the stressful parts of the move and make the most of your new adventure.

By following these tips, you can make your overseas move much less stressful. But its more than just the packing and shifting of your possessions that's worth considering. Here are some other tips to help you get settled into your brand new community: 

1. Learn about your new culture. Before you move, take some time to learn about the culture of your new country. This will help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your new life.
2. Make friends. One of the best ways to adjust to your new life is to make friends. Join local clubs or groups, or take classes to meet people who share your interests.
3. Explore your new surroundings. Take some time to explore your new city or town. Visit local landmarks, try new foods, and meet new people.
4. Be patient. It takes time to adjust to a new life, so be patient with yourself. Don't expect to feel at home right away. Give yourself time to adjust and explore your new surroundings.
5. Ask for help! - There's loads of resources to help you move, so make sure you ask for help if you're stuck or unsure. There's loads of expat associations and publications which all provide help for people relocating to new cities, so reach out and make the most of these resources if you'e unsure. 

Moving overseas can be a great opportunity, but it's important to be prepared for the challenges. We've got years of experience in planning and executing moves of all kinds all over the world (and we've probasbly solved almost every problem) - so the best advice we can give you is to selevt a moving partner (like us!) who will help take all of the stress out of your move and help you plan for the adventure of a lifetime, and give you time back to make sure it's one of the most positive experiences of your life. 

For more information about what we do and how we do it, visit the Go Group website at www.go-group.com or visit us on social media @go__group. 

Moving day is often a day that is full of varying emotions.

Moving day is often a day that is full of varying emotions, from the excitement of moving to your new property, to the sentimental sadness of leaving your old home. You’ll be busy overseeing your removals team and carrying out last minute checks so it’s easy to forget certain essentials. That’s why we’ve put together a list of items to pack as part of a moving day survival kit.

WHAT IS A MOVING DAY SURVIVAL KIT?

A moving day survival kit is an essential box consisting of all the essentials you’ll likely need right away once you’ve moved into your new home.

WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE?

Think toiletries, bed linen, clothes, food, cooking utensils and of course… the kettle if you are in the UK, coffee and tea bags.

Phone chargers are a must also. You’ll likely be making lots of calls to people such as estate agents, solicitors and so it’s important your phone is on hand and has plenty of juice.

Create a document file where you can keep copies of all essential documents, including house deeds, passport copies, etc.

Of course, the exact contents of your Moving Day Survival Kit will largely be dependent on you and your family’s circumstances.
Keep everything you think you will need in your first few days in a box and put it in your car BEFORE the removal team arrive so that it doesn’t get scooped up. 

It’s also handy to have a few recycling bags lying around as well so you can quickly dispose of anything you decide you don’t need.

Here are some helpful headings to ensure your Moving Day Survival Kit has got you covered for every eventuality:

KITCHENWARE 

Being eco conscious we advise packing up a selection of your mugs, teaspoons, plates and cutlery. Include paper towels, washing-up liquid, and cloth. 

Take it easy and consider ordering a takeaway on your first night, it’s a tiring day and you’ll want to be kind to yourself. Why not introduce yourself to the neighbours and ask for a local takeaway recommendation? You might want to bring some water bottles to make sure you stay hydrated during the day.

FOOD AND NON-PERISHABLES

Moving is hungry work. Regardless of the distance you’ve travelled you’re going to want to put food together pretty quickly, particularly if you’ve got little ones pulling at your trouser legs.

You don’t need to pack for Armageddon but bringing along a few snacks and food items for your first few days can help you settle in more easily to your new home.

Pack lunches for kids and plenty of non-perishable items, which can be opened for instant use and minimum preparation time.

Some great food items to include in your Moving Day Survival Kit include:

• cereals
• cheese and biscuits
• bread and butter for sandwiches
• milk, coffee and tea bags
• fresh fruit

BATHROOM AND CLEANING PRODUCTS

Don’t get caught out when you move into your new home.
Pack plenty of supplies for the bathroom, such as:

• toilet paper
• sanitary products
• soap
• towels
• toothpaste
• shampoo
• deodorant
• first-aid kit and plasters
• painkillers (hopefully you shouldn’t need these!)

• rubber gloves
• sponge
• cloths
• scourers
• plunger
• brushes

BEDROOM

One area that is often neglected by those moving into new homes is the bedroom. You don’t want to find yourself searching through box after box to find your bed linen at the end of a busy moving day do you? 

You’re going to want to crash into your own bed as quickly as possible rather than have to grapple through boxes. So make sure you pack bedroom items into your Moving Day Survival Kit so you can access it straight away.

Make sure to include the following:

• bed linen
• pillows
• duvets
• pyjamas and change of clothes
• clothing hangers

TOOLKIT

DIY might not be your immediate first point of call but it’s handy to keep some tools with you in case you need them.

It might sound obvious but a utility knife or scissors for cutting open boxes is an absolute must!
Some handy tools you may need include:

• hammer
• screwdrivers
• measuring tape and pliers

CHILDREN

If you are moving house with kids it’s usually a good idea to have someone look after them while you move.
If you’re moving a long distance or would rather they settle into their new home right away you ought to prepare for this.
Bring essential items they need, food and plenty of entertainment to ensure they don’t get bored.
You might want to let them pack their own special moving day survival kit with their favourite toy, book, game, and snacks.

Some items you might want to include are:

• handheld gaming devices and tablets
• books and puzzles
• baby changing supplied for young children
• favourite toys
• comfort items and night lights

PETS

Like children, pets also need care and attention during the moving process.
Ensure they are well catered for in terms of food and entertainment and pack the following:

• food and water bowls
• bedding
• leads/collars
• toys and specific items they need  

Why it makes sense to use a Professional Removals Company.

When you hire a professional removals company like Go Group, you are not just getting an experienced removals team, you’re also getting a virtual hand hold, helping you to stress less and look forward to your new adventure.
You are getting access to the knowledge base of professionals who have moved just about everything there is and know what to look out for. 

How Can Go Group Help?

Go Group has been providing expert removal services in the UK and Internationally for over 10 years. We look after every step of your move, from planning through to execution. Allowing you to focus on your family and the excitement of your new home.

We use a modern range of environmentally friendly, purpose-made packing materials to prepare and ship your belongings safely to their intended destination. 

Our team are all fully trained and certified to the required standards of the British Association of Removers. 

You may also wish to use our unpacking service to unpack your belongings onto flat surfaces and dispose of all packing materials.

Go Group can also offer you storage at flexible rates compared to most commercial units. Whether you want to empty a room for refurbishing or de-clutter your home for a ‘show-house’ talk to us to see how we can help. 

What are you waiting for? To find out how Go Group can get your dream move underway don’t hesitate to contact us today and to book in your virtual home survey.