International Moving Checklist

Moving internationally is highly exciting, but can also be stressful and exhausting. From packing up your belongings to navigating a new culture, there are so many things to consider when you decide to leave Malaysia behind and move to another country.

At Allied, we understand the importance of being well-prepared for an international relocation. We have decades of experience assisting individuals and families with their international moves worldwide so know what it takes to ensure a successful move. That’s why we have put together this comprehensive moving checklist to ensure a seamless transition. You can follow our moving checklist so you are guided through every single step and are well-prepared in the lead-up to your international relocation!

The secret to a successful international move is all in the planning and preparation (not to mention having the right moving company). Packing for your new home can be overwhelming, especially if you wait until the last minute. We recommend decluttering your current home in the months leading up to your move. This is because movers will account for the volume of items being moved in their quote.

You can help save costs by leaving behind any items that you can easily replace in your new destination. Reducing the number of belongings you are taking with you will not only save you money, but will also make the move faster and more efficient! As you go through your belongings, ensure you have a list of items that require special care during transport to give to your movers so they aren’t at risk of damages.

While it may seem like a long time, before you know it - it’s moving day! Start preparing for your relocation three months before you move.  Here's what you should do:

• Research the visa and residency requirements for your new country.
• Find and book a reputable international moving company, plus book your international move.
• Start decluttering and selling or donating items you won't be taking with you.
• Begin gathering important documents such as passports, birth certificates, and medical records.
• If moving with a family, research schools and childcare options in your new location.
• Research tax laws in your new country.
• Arrange vehicle transportation for your car or other vehicle to be relocated.
• Organise transit insurance to ensure you are covered for your relocation.
• Arrange for pet transportation and take your pet for any necessary vaccinations and a general check-up.
• Arrange an appointment with your GP for any vaccinations you might need in your new country.
• Notify your banks, utility companies, and other service providers of your move.

As you approach the one month mark, it's time to start finalising some of the details of your move.

• Confirm your travel arrangements.
• Confirm your visa and residency requirements with the appropriate authorities.
• Confirm dates and details with your professional packing service.
• Prepare an inventory list of items being moved and ensure you have all the necessary documentation.
• Pack and arrange pick-up or delivery for any items going into storage.
• Confirm all relevant paperwork with your moving company.
• Begin packing non-essential items.
• Update or cancel any subscriptions.
• Schedule disconnection of utilities and other services.

Only two weeks to go, it's time to start wrapping up any remaining loose ends.

• Set up your forwarding address with the post office.
• Pack essential items for the first few days in your new home.
• Continue packing all remaining items.

As the big day quickly approaches, there are a few final tasks to take care of.

• Pack and label all remaining boxes.
• Prepare a plan for the first few days in your new home, including groceries, transportation, and local amenities.
• Let your bank know about your upcoming move so that they can authorise purchases/transfers in your new country.

You’ll likely be feeling a mix of nerves and excitement the night before your move. Take care of a few last-minute tasks to help ease your mind for the big day!

• Double-check your checklist to ensure all items are packed and ready to go.
• Charge all electronic devices.
• Confirm any last-minute details with your moving company.
• Get a good night's sleep to prepare for the big day.

Moving day is here! With everything planned and organised, you should be ready to tackle the challenges of your international move.

• After your movers arrive, take the time to talk through the move and raise any possible concerns or questions you may have
• Perform a ‘walk-through’ with the moving company to check no belongings have been forgotten.
• Say goodbye to your old home and neighbourhood.

At Allied Malaysia, we pride ourselves on our expertise in minimising stress when it comes to moving internationally. We have the expertise and solutions you need to make your move a success. If you’d like to discuss your specific international move and how best you should prepare, you can get in touch with our experienced team. We can even provide you with a free quote today which is specific to your move.