International Moving Guide
Denver International Movers are increasingly common as companies relocate employees to the Denver Metro Area from around the world. Moving from Denver to another country can be both frightening and thrilling.
You meet new people, learn about different cultures, and experience various ways of life. However, concerns arise about your family’s adaptation to the new surroundings and the status of your household possessions.
Technology and low overseas labor costs have actively contributed to the globalization of American businesses and international family migration. If you’re planning a move to another country, there are some special considerations you’ll need to address before hiring an international moving company and proceeding with your move.
Moving Your Vehicles Overseas
When deciding what to do with your current car or truck, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, what are the driving habits in your destination country? Do they drive on the opposite side of the road, and are their vehicles designed to do so?
Is there any special vehicle requirements in your destination country, and will your current car or truck meet those requirements?
How much will it cost to ship your vehicles internationally? Are they really worth it? Is it easier, less expensive, or more practical to sell your existing vehicles in the United States and buy replacement vehicles in your new location? Many international movers decide to replace their vehicle.
Nothing can be left in the interior or trunk of a car being shipped, except normal accessories like a jack and a spare tire. Customs may also permit the transport of hubcaps, extra air filters, and/or engine parts in the trunk. Be sure to check with customs officials in advance.
Acquiring International Drivers Permit
If you plan to drive while living in another country, consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP). While some countries only require a valid driver’s license from your home country, others also require an IDP. An IDP enables you to drive in the destination country until you acquire a local driving license.
For further details on driving abroad, including a list of countries that accept or mandate the International Driving Permit, as well as IDP application information, contact the relevant Automobile Association.
An IDP is not a license itself, but a certification of national authorization available in nine languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish). If stopped by a police officer while driving, the IDP indicates you possess a valid national license, which should be honored. In the event of a traffic violation, an IDP can save you hours. Therefore, if planning an international relocation, obtain the IDP in your home country before departing.
Household Goods
If you take any household goods, they are generally duty-free. However, if an item is brand new (less than a year old), you will incur a duty fee. Before purchasing items to take abroad, assess whether it is worth paying duty on them. Consider buying items after the move if they are available at your destination. While you can order items by mail while living abroad, you will still be required to pay duty on them.
Check with customs or the consulate to confirm whether you can include the following items in your household goods shipment: alcohol, tobacco, cameras, and unexposed film. Many countries impose limits on the quantities of these items allowed. Prior to departure, consult with the consulate, embassy, or customs office of your destination country to determine the permitted quantities.
Ensure you’re aware of restricted or prohibited items, such as matches, candles, paint, and cleaning fluids, by consulting the consulate or embassy of your destination country.
Avoid transporting oversized items, as the transportation costs may outweigh their value. Check availability in your destination country and ensure your new home can accommodate them.
Clothing, furs, and jewelry are typically duty-free for personal use. Verify destination country restrictions before shipping belongings. Consider shipping jewelry via airfreight or carrying it with you to prevent potential theft.
Medication : If you carry any prescription medications with you, follow these suggestions to avoid problems:
Moving Electronics and Appliances Overseas
Do the electrical outlets in your destination country differ from those in the United States? Are their phone jacks different? Would it be more cost-effective to buy replacement items once you arrive rather than paying to transport your existing ones?
How Much Room will your Overseas Home Include?
Living accommodations in other countries can differ significantly from those in America. Room sizes may be smaller, or there may be fewer rooms available. Additionally, you may lack a garage or storage room at your new location. Consider these factors when deciding what to take with you and what to dispose of or sell before your international move.
Moving Your Pets Around the World
Before moving your pet to another country, consider two factors. Firstly, check if your pet is allowed in the destination country. If permitted, you may need a health or rabies certificate from your veterinarian. Verify with the consulate or embassy how long the certificate is valid and if an entry permit is necessary.
Consider the logistics of taking your pet overseas. Account for extended travel time and government regulations on pet transportation and immigration. Ensure your pet’s safety during transportation.
Secondly, consider the cost. Expect to pay duty on your pet and for quarantine expenses. Depending on the destination country, quarantine periods can range from a few weeks to a full year.
If you do take your pet, be sure to do the following:
- Get the pet’s medical records from your vet
- Equip your pet with a travel identification tag, alongside their permanent collar, to ensure their safe return if lost. Include your pet’s name, your name, destination address, and phone number, along with an alternative contact person’s details
- Plan your trip to avoid your pet arriving at the destination on weekends or holidays when customs facilities are closed. Otherwise, your pet may go without food, water, and care for an extended period
- To expedite the clearance process for your pet, write to the port entry veterinarian, providing details such as your pet’s arrival date, flight number, and any other necessary information
Selecting an International Mover
Although there are fewer international moving companies compared to domestic ones, an increasing number of movers now offer international services to meet the growing demand for global relocation.
Choosing a quality moving company with international experience can greatly impact your moving experience. They must handle customs issues and provide destination country information to ease any concerns about moving abroad. Ideally, the company should have a permanent presence in your destination area for better familiarity and post-move communication.
When selecting an international mover, price should be less of a concern compared to local or interstate movers. Focus on their experience, reputation, track record, and global locations for a well-informed decision.