Save money during your international move with Gerson Relocation
Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a pricy one. In this piece, the team from Gerson Relocation provides you with the best ways to manage costs and make your move more affordable.
There are many expenses tied to moving to a new place such as immigration, shipping, flights, healthcare and accommodation. However, with careful planning and the right strategies, you can save money on your international moving and shipping.
Start planning early
Moving in general requires a lot of planning, but moving to a new country is on a whole other level. That is why it's important to pre-plan as far ahead as possible. By doing so, you not only secure the best possible rates but also have a choice of shipping dates. Additionally, pre-planning allows you to budget for your move overseas and make necessary financial arrangements.
Minimise your belongings
When it comes to moving abroad, less is often more. Carefully evaluate your belongings and only take what you truly need. If you don't use it, don't take it with you! Consider what size home you are moving to and from.
If you can, assess the space in your new home abroad; for instance, if it is a fully-furnished or serviced apartment, you may only need to bring clothes and personal items. Also, consider buying some new furniture at your destination instead of shipping everything. Especially with certain big-ticket items, you have to ask yourself whether it’s worth the cost of shipping.
For items that you can't take with you, storage can be a cost-effective solution, especially if you're only moving abroad for a short period.
Find the best shipping option for you
The cost of shipping can differ depending on the mode of transportation. The World Bank suggests that air freight is usually 12 - 16 times more expensive than ocean freight. While airfreight is ideal for urgent items, sending your belongings in an overseas shipping container via ship is often more cost-effective.
There are also various options ranging from your own sole-use container, which come in various sizes, to a shared container commonly termed as "groupage." Groupage is often an ideal option as you will be sharing a larger container with other people / families who are moving their belongings to the same destination country. By sharing a container with other people, it can definitely help you save on freight and trucking costs.
You can learn more about groupage with Gerson Relocation.
Try extra relocation services
Additional services such as health insurance, foreign currency exchange, pet relocation and car hires may be relevant to you when moving abroad. It's crucial to shop around for the best prices and plans for these services. Compare different insurance providers to find the most suitable health insurance plan for you and your family.
Similarly, choose a reliable foreign currency transfer company to save on exchange rates. For pet owners, start the relocation process early to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for your furry friends. Lastly, consider consulting car hire specialists to find the most cost-effective options for your transportation needs in your new country.
Book your travel plans in advance
When you are moving to a new country, it is important to reduce your travel expenses as much as you can. One way to do this is by booking your flight in advance. According to popular flight search engines, looking at least seven weeks in advance for short-haul flights and 18 weeks for long-haul flights will often yield cheaper prices.
Additionally, consider flying on a Tuesday, as it's typically more cost-effective than popular travel days like Saturdays. If possible, plan a visit to your destination a few months before your move to explore different neighbourhoods and determine where you'd like to live.
Take care of your taxes beforehand
Taxes are something that you shouldn't forget about before moving abroad as you could accidentally end up paying taxes in two countries instead of one. That is why it is important to inform the government of the country you are departing from of your change in circumstances. Make sure to update your tax code to reflect your new residency status as this will help prevent unnecessary financial burdens and ensure a smooth transition to your new country.
By following these tips, you can save money on your international move and make the process more affordable. Planning ahead, taking only what you need, choosing cost-effective shipping options, shopping around for additional relocation services, booking flights in advance and sorting out your taxes will help minimise expenses and reduce the financial burden of moving overseas. Remember, a cost-effective and stress-free move is within reach with proper preparation and research.
Gerson Relocation: Move with ease today
If you are planning a move, the team from Gerson Relocation is here to support you and your family. From shipping and local storage options, they can take care of your every need. Download your international move checklist, or get in touch with Gerson Relocation today via [email protected] or +31 (0) 10 4452566.
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