Is this your first time to move from one country to another? It’s relatively easy now, but if it’s your first time, it’s only too easy to panic. These basic guidelines could help you out.
Customs
You need to understand that the customs regulations of one country won’t apply in another. Even if you’ve had experience shipping products to another country, the country of your destination now will have a different set of laws, especially when it comes to importation. Take the time to go to the embassy and check the updated list. Do not attempt to ship any prohibited items. Leave them with loved ones if you can’t bring them along. If some of your items are restricted, set them aside and get permits for them.
Packaging
If you’re moving an entire household, you should be prepared not only to puchase boxes, bubble wraps, tissue paper, and cardboard. You will also need to think about renting containers. There are enclosed containers and the default sizes for them are 20ft and 40ft. You can also rent smaller ones like 8ft and 10ft. If you’re moving oversized funiture pieces, you can also rent open rack containers. If you’re moving items on a large scale, the moving company would be more than happy to help you out. They usually have teams to help you with the packing. These teams can also help you fill out your packing lists.
Listing
It is very important for you to prepare a detailed list of the items you’re shipping to another country. First of all, it can help customs officials properly inspect your shipment. They might not even open your boxes anymore if all the items listed are allowed. Of course, this isn’t an assurance that your boxed won’t be open. Still, a thorough list could lift suspicions. Aside from inspections, you can also save yourself from losses. If anything gets lost in your shipment, the packing list is a good reference. It will also help you claim insurance rights if you bought a policy for your shipment.
Taxes
All internationally shipped items are taxed, especially if you’re moving an entire household. You don’t want to be taken by surprise. The good thing is that you can also find tax information when you visit the embassy. Get the list from the customs representative and perhaps you can do preliminary calculations on your own. Take note though that exportation taxes from your home port at separate from importation taxes which you’ll have to pay at the country of your destination. It costs a lot to remove items from one country to another, but it is better than having to purchase all of your household items again.
Preparation period
It’s never too early to prepare for international removals. You can start sorting out your things as early as six months before your date of departure. You also need to get your permits at least two months before your shipment leaves your homeport. Don’t worry about having your shipment sent to your destination before your actual departure. If you’re traveling by air, and your shipment is traveling by sea, you will still get to your destination first. Also expect about two weeks to a month’s worth of delay because the customs officers will still have to inspect your shipment.
