Often people don’t leave enough time to properly prepare. If you are doing your own packing, it’s a good idea to begin boxing up items at least four weeks in advance of the move This reduces stress and allows you to deal with unintended problems.

Often people don’t leave enough time to properly prepare. If you are doing your own packing, it’s a good idea to begin boxing up items at least four weeks in advance of the move This reduces stress and allows you to deal with unintended problems.

Thoroughly wash and dry the inside of your refrigerator after it is disconnected. Placing either fresh coffee or baking soda in a sock or nylon stocking will keep it smelling fresh and avoid mildew.

Identify items you will be keeping with you and clearly mark them as not to be packed. We suggest putting these items in a closed closet or bathroomwith the door marked “NOT TO BE MOVED.” Don’t forget to take them when you leave.

Place sheets and towels in a dresser drawer so that you won’t have to hunt for these essentials the first night in your new home.

Pack and label an “unload me first” carton with essentials that you’ll need immediately. Suggested items include toilet paper, telephone, personalcare items (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, etc.), snacks, coffee and coffee pot, flashlight and basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, hammer, etc.) can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a couple of pans and paper towels.

Thoroughly wash and dry the inside of your refrigerator after it is disconnected. Placing either fresh coffee or baking soda in a sock or nylon stocking will keep it smelling fresh and avoid mildew.

Schedule disconnection of utilities (gas, electric, telephone, cable, water, trash collection, etc.) as well as any house cleaning or other home services for the day after loading. Moving day will be hectic and you will need the utilities during the move. Also, make travel arrangements for the day after moving day in case there are weather delays or other unforeseen problems.

Always do a final walkthrough before the movers leave. Be sure to check closets, attics, crawl spaces, shelves and other areas for any items that could easily be left behind.

Let your computer “acclimate” itself to the room temperature before plugging it in at the new location.

Depending on your new host country, you may need special adapters for your appliances and electrical devices.

Draw a floor plan indicating where the furniture is to be placed in each room. This will make the delivery process go more quickly and less stressful.

Consult your new host country’s U.S. Embassy or Consulate for information on any restrictions on what can be brought in. Guns, alcohol, controlled substances and even certain types of literature are strictly prohibited in certain countries. There are also some items that your international mover cannot and/or shouldn’t move or store for you, including:

• Flammable items
• Gasoline
• Plants
• Combustible items
• Paints and paint thinner
• Jewelry
• Aerosol cans
• Hazardous materials
• Nail polish and removers
• Ammunition and explosives
• Legal documents (wills, financial papers, insurance)

If your relocation is sponsored by your employer, make sure you thoroughly read and understand your company’s relocation policy. These policies normally set limits on weight allowance and total relocation expense. If your needs exceed the policy’s allowances, the excess items can be moved at your expense or placed in storage.

If you need long-term storage of your possessions, Pacific Crating & Shipping can provide safe, secure storage facilities. Most relocation policies include an allowance for storage. An alternative to storage is selling or donating items you won’t need or can’t use while overseas.

Learn the laws and customs of your destination country beforehand. The country’s consulate is an excellent source for this type of information.

Before moving, ensure all of your medical records are up-to-date by getting medical and dental check-ups for you and your family. Be sure to bring copies of these records with you. The consulate and U.S. State Department can advise you on health care for foreign nationals in the

Gather all personal records, including prescriptions and medical records, school transcripts, marriage and birth certificates, vehicle registrations, etc., and bring them with you to your new residence.