International Moving Guide
International moves in Denver are becoming more common as companies from around the world relocate their employees from one country to the Denver Metro Area. Moving from Denver to another country can be a frightening experience, but it can also be thrilling. You meet a lot of new people, learn about their cultures, and become acquainted with a new culture and various ways of life. On the other hand, there are concerns about your family’s compatibility with the new surroundings, as well as the status of your household possessions. What about Jimmy, my dog, and my other pets? What about my taxes, and the list goes on and on.
Technology and low overseas labor costs have actively participated in increasing 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 make before hiring an international moving company and moving.
Moving Your Vehicles Overseas to or From Denver
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 that is being shipped, except normal accessories such as a jack and a spare tyre. Customs may also allow the transport of hubcaps, extra air filters, and/or engine parts in the trunk. Make sure to check with customs officials ahead of time.
Acquiring International Drivers Permit
If you intend to drive while living in another country, you should consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP). Many countries require only a valid driver’s licence from your home country, but others require an IDP as well. An IDP will allow you to drive in the destination country until you obtain a local driving licence.
Contact the appropriate Automobile Association for more information on driving abroad, including a list of countries that accept or require the International Driving Permit, as well as IDP application information.
An IDP is not a licence in and of itself, but rather a certification of a national authorization in nine languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish). If you are stopped by a police officer while driving for any reason, the IDP indicates that you have a valid national licence and that your credentials should be honoured. If you are involved in a traffic violation, an IDP can save you hours of time. As a result, if you are planning an international relocation, you should obtain the IDP in your home country before departing.
Household Goods
If you take any household good, they are generally duty-free, but if it’s a brand new (less than a year of purchase), then you are going to pay a price. Before buying any items to take abroad, determine if it is worth paying duty on them. You might want to purchase the items after the move if they are available at destination. Although you can order items by mail while living abroad, you still are required to pay duty on them.
Check with the customs, consulate whether you can carry the following items packed in your household goods shipment: alcohol, tobacco, cameras and unexposed film. Many countries limit the amount of these items you can bring. Check with a consulate, embassy or customs office for your destination country, prior to your departure to determine the quantities permitted.
And if you carry something like matches or candles, then you may be in a trouble. So make sure that you consult consulate or embassy of your destination country on other items that are restricted, prohibited, or in need of licenses or permits. (matches, candles, paint, and cleaning and lighting fluids)
Don’t take very large items with you ; their cost of transportation may exceed the cost you bought it. Check if they are available in the destination country and check for the size of new home if it is sufficient to accommodate the things.
Clothing, furs, and jewellery are usually duty-free as long as they are for the owner’s personal use and not for resale. Before shipping your belongings, check the restrictions of your destination country. Ship the jewellery via airfreight or carry it with you to avoid any 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 from those in the United States? Would it be more cost effective to buy replacement items once you arrive at your destination rather than paying to transport your existing items?
How Much Room will your Overseas Home Include?
Living accommodations in other countries can be quite different from those in America. Room sizes may be smaller or there may be fewer rooms to work with. Additionally, you may not have a garage or storage room at your new location. You’ll want to consider these factors when deciding what to take with you and what to dispose of or sell before you make your international move.
Moving Your Pets Around the World
Before you decide to move your pet to another country, two factors should be considered. First, will your pet be allowed in the destination country? If so, a health and/or rabies certificate might be required from your veterinarian. Be sure to ask a consulate or embassy of your destination country how long any certificate is considered valid and if your pet also will need an entry permit.
You’ll want to know what you’ll have to do if you plan on taking your pet with you overseas. Extended travel time and government regulations on transporting and immigrating certain types of pets need to be considered. How will you physically transport your pet and will that jeopardize your pet’s health or safety?
Second – Cost is the consideration. In most cases, you will be required to pay duty on your pet and pay for your pet to be quarantined, Depending on your destination county, your pet could be quarantined 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
- Provide your pet with a travel identification tag – in addition to his/her permanent identification collar – so your pet can be returned to you if found. Include your pet’s name; your name, destination address and telephone number; and an alternative contact person’s name and telephone number.
- Schedule your trip to ensure your pet doesn’t arrive at destination on a weekend or holiday when customs facilities are closed. Otherwise, your pet might be without food, water and other care for a long period.
- To help speed up the clearance process for your pet, write to the port entry veterinarian advising him of your pet’s arrival date, flight number and other required information.
Selecting an International Mover
While there are fewer international moving companies compared to domestic ones, an increasing number offer international services due to rising demand.
A reputable mover with international experience can greatly enhance your global relocation. They must navigate customs issues and provide destination information to ease concerns about moving abroad. Ideally, the company should have a permanent presence in your destination area, facilitating post-move communication.
Price should be less influential in selecting an international mover compared to local or interstate movers. Consider the mover’s experience, reputation, track record, and global reach for a well-informed decision.