Moving to a new country can be both exciting and complicated. Whether you’ve already accepted a job with an overseas employer or are simply researching opportunities abroad, you’ll need to take several steps ahead of relocating. Before you start talking to international moving companies, here are some tasks to check off your to-do list.

How to Get Ready for an International Move

1. Downsize Your Belongings

When packing for an overseas move, minimize your items as much as possible. You might not have as much space in your new home, and some of your current belongings may not be necessary once you settle in.

As you go through your current space, think about what you’ll need once you arrive, rather than holding onto items for comfort or nostalgia. If you want to keep items that you don’t need, rent a storage unit instead of paying to transport everything overseas.

2. Research Customs Requirements

Every country has different requirements for entering and transporting various items. For example, if you have pets, they may need to go through a quarantine period to ensure they’re not carrying any diseases or pests. You may also need to get them extra vaccines or medications before the move. Many countries also have regulations regarding plants, food products, and medicines.

3. Organize Various Paperwork

Setting up residency in a new country can be a time-consuming process. As soon as you decide on a move, make a list of the items you’ll need to enter the country and get your life in order. This will almost always include an up-to-date passport and visa paperwork.

You may also need specific documents from your employer or your child’s school to establish yourself in your new home. Your overseas moving company may be able to help you get organized, but you should research the requirements before scheduling the relocation.

If you’re looking for international moving companies to help with your relocation, contact JNR Global Logistics. Based in Kapolei, HI, the residential and commercial relocation company works with clients moving or shipping items to or from anywhere on the Hawaiian Islands. The professional team provides white-glove service and has experience organizing military and government relocations. Visit the company’s website to see a full array of freight and shipping services. To request an estimate, call the international moving company at (808) 353-8441.