Moving to another country might seem complicated, but with the right plan, it becomes much easier! In this article, KokoMove has compiled the ultimate checklist for preparing your international move. After reading, you'll know exactly where to start to make your relocation simple and stress-free from beginning to end.
🗓️ Plan Ahead: Prepare Before You Move
Planning is the most critical starting point. You should begin preparing at least 1-2 months in advance to have enough time to sort your belongings, prepare documents, and contact a moving company.
What to plan:
- Your move-out date and travel date.
- Estimate the volume of your items and a rough budget.
- Transit time (we recommend choosing a company that uses air freight for speed).
- Research the destination country's restrictions, such as prohibited import items.
📦 Declutter Before Packing
Don't rush to pack everything. Some items may not be necessary to bring along. Sorting your belongings effectively will save you both time and money.
Simple sorting tips:
- ✅ Must-Haves: Clothes, personal items, important documents.
- 🧳 Sentimental Value: Collectibles, decorations, souvenirs.
- Unnecessary Items: Large furniture, electronics with incompatible power systems, or items near their expiration date.
💬 Don't Forget! Certain items are "prohibited from air freight," such as batteries, aerosol sprays, perfumes, and flammable liquids. You should always confirm with your shipping company to be certain.
🗂️ Prepare All Important Documents
Documents are the heart of an international move. If even one paper is missing, your shipment could be held up at customs.
Key documents to prepare:
- Passport
- Customs Declaration Form
- A complete Packing List of all items
- Receipts or invoices for new items (if any)
- A clear destination address and contact number
💡 KokoMove TIP: This step might seem complicated, but if you choose KokoMove, our team of experts will handle and prepare all the necessary documentation for you. You won't have to worry about paperwork at all.
✅ Tips for Safe Packing
Damage during transit is often caused by improper packing or using boxes that are too thin. Don't underestimate this step.
Professional packing tips:
- Use double-wall corrugated boxes.
- Wrap fragile items with bubble wrap or foam padding.
- Clearly write the destination country and recipient's name on each box.
- Mark boxes with fragile items with a "FRAGILE" sticker.
✨ Your Shortcut: No need to buy boxes or bubble wrap yourself! KokoMove's service includes an on-site survey, packing with international-standard materials, and repacking. Our team will handle everything to ensure 100% safety for all your items.
📱 Choose a Reliable Mover and Track Your Shipment
Choosing your moving company is a critical decision because you're entrusting them with all your household goods. Select a company with direct international moving experience, all-inclusive services (packing, customs, delivery), damage insurance, transparent pricing, and a real-time tracking system.
🔎 Inspect Your Belongings Upon Arrival
When your shipment arrives, don't sign for it immediately. You should inspect every box first.
- Is the box count correct?
- Are there any dents, tears, or water damage?
- Are the items inside in good condition?
If you find any damage, take photos and notify the company immediately to file an insurance claim.
Moving Abroad is Easier Than You Think with KokoMove
An international move doesn't have to be a hassle when you have a clear plan and a professional team you can trust. KokoMove is ready to provide a complete, all-in-one service for you.
Get Your Free Consultation Today!