Moving overseas is an exciting adventure, but it requires meticulous planning and preparation. Whether you’re planning your move over a year in advance or have just one month left, Crown Relocations Australia is here to guide you through each stage of the process. Here’s a comprehensive timeline to help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free relocation.
Over one year
Increase your knowledge and savings for a low-stress move
A year may seem like a long time, but it will pass quickly, especially when you’re busy researching and planning your move. Start by looking into visa requirements for your intended country. Some destinations may take over a year to process visas, so the sooner you begin, the better.
Ensure your passports are up to date and start researching medical examinations or pet restrictions if applicable. Build a relocation fund to cover living expenses and unexpected costs. If you don’t have a job lined up, now is the time to explore employment prospects, including necessary work permits and qualifications.
Learning the local language can significantly ease your transition. Start language lessons now, and you’ll be conversing comfortably by the time you arrive. To help get you truly settled, Crown offers a range of language courses, both in groups and one-to-one, specifically tailored to the ability and needs of you and your family.
Six to twelve months
Plan a visit before you commit to big decisions
With visa applications underway, focus on where you’ll settle in your new country. Conduct in-depth online research about housing, schools, and medical care, and consider visiting your new country to get a firsthand feel of the environment.
Crown has been helping our customers find the right home at their new destination for many years with our in-house teams providing a personal, on-the-ground service.
Home search experts will:
- Provide local knowledge of the right areas to suit your lifestyle and budget
- Ensure you don’t pay any unnecessary fees or above-market rates
- Guide you through the rent or purchase contract law at your destination
- Help to coordinate other services, such as utilities or furniture rental, so it’s simpler to just move in.
If you have school-age children, start looking into schools and extracurricular activities. Changing schools and adapting to an international or local curriculum can have a big impact on a child’s development. So it’s a question of finding the right educational experience for them. Most major destinations provide a good mix of schools; international, private and public. But experiences vary, as do fees. Crown provides local advice on schooling for every age, including day care and pre-schools.
Take inventory of your belongings and decide what to take with you. Have a garage sale or donate items you won’t need. Once your list is final, contact us for an estimate on the time and cost of your move.
Three to six months
Organise your move and handle financial arrangements
Schedule an in-home survey and consultation with Crown Relocations at least three months before your move. This will help you get a precise quote and decide what to sell, store, or take with you.
Sort out your finances by researching bank accounts in your new country. Inform your current bank about your move and discuss any implications with your tax adviser. Update your insurance policies, especially health insurance.
If you have children, ensure their school and medical records are ready. Confirm all passports are valid and list your home for sale if you haven’t already done so. Decide whether to sell or store your car and prepare your pets for the move by meeting all necessary requirements.
Check if your electronics will work in the new country and buy appropriate adapters if needed. Consider getting a local mobile phone contract to avoid high international rates.
In one month
Make final arrangements
With one month left, it’s time to finalise your plans. Contact Crown Relocations to set a date for packing and moving your goods. Confirm pickup dates, transit times, and delivery dates.
Book your flights and arrange transportation to and from the airport. Plan for hotel and rental car needs at your destination. Notify utility companies of your shut-off dates and provide them with your forwarding address.
Prepare an emergency kit with money, jewellery, important documents, and an emergency supply of medications. Notify family, friends, and businesses of your new contact information.
Ready to make the move?
Just as your move is the most important thing in your world right now, it’s the most important in ours too. To us, nothing matters more than ensuring your relocation is a success. That’s why we’ll be with you all the way.
Contact us today to ensure a smooth transition from Australia to your new home.
