Moving internationally is one of life’s most exciting yet overwhelming experiences. Whether you’re relocating from Chicago to London, Tokyo, or anywhere else across the globe, proper planning and timing can make the difference between a smooth transition and a logistical nightmare. Creating a comprehensive timeline is essential for ensuring your international move goes off without a hitch.
International relocations involve significantly more complexity than domestic moves. From visa applications and customs documentation to moving logistics and cultural preparation, every aspect requires careful coordination. Starting your planning process early gives you the flexibility to handle unexpected delays and ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines that could derail your entire move.
Begin your international moving journey by researching and contacting international movers in Chicago. This early start allows you to compare services, pricing, and availability among different companies. Request detailed quotes from at least three reputable Chicago international movers to understand the scope and cost of your relocation.
During this phase, start researching your destination country’s entry requirements, including visa applications, work permits, and residency documentation. Many countries have lengthy processing times for immigration paperwork, so beginning early is crucial. Additionally, research your new location’s housing market, cost of living, and cultural norms to better prepare for the transition.
Create a preliminary inventory of your belongings to help moving companies provide accurate estimates. Decide which items you’ll take, sell, donate, or store. This early decluttering process will save both time and money when working with Chicago international moving companies.
Finalize your choice of international moving company and book your services. The best international movers in Chicago often have busy schedules, especially during peak moving seasons (summer months and year-end), so securing your preferred dates early is essential.
Submit all visa and immigration applications, ensuring you have all required supporting documents. Obtain or renew passports for all family members, keeping in mind that some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Start the process of obtaining important document copies and translations. Many countries require certified translations of birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic transcripts, and professional certifications. Research which documents you’ll need and begin the translation process, as certified translations can take several weeks.
Work closely with your chosen moving company to finalize the details of your shipment. Confirm pickup and delivery dates, review insurance coverage, and understand the customs clearance process for your destination country. Reputable Chicago international movers will guide you through customs documentation requirements and help you understand prohibited or restricted items.
Begin the process of closing or transferring accounts and services. Contact banks to inform them of your move and research banking options in your new country. Some international banks have partnerships that can make the transition smoother. Start researching health insurance options and schedule medical checkups for all family members, ensuring prescriptions are up to date.
If you have children, research schools in your new location and begin the enrollment process. International schools often have waiting lists, so early application is crucial. Request transcripts and academic records from current schools, having them translated and certified as needed.
Confirm all arrangements with your Chicago international moving companies and review the timeline for packing, pickup, and delivery. Arrange for temporary accommodation if there’s a gap between your arrival and your belongings’ delivery, which is common in international moves.
Start using up perishable items and start packing non-essential belongings. Create a detailed inventory list with photos for insurance purposes. Separate essential items you’ll carry with you, including important documents, medications, and items needed for your first few weeks abroad.
Notify relevant parties of your address change, including employers, insurance companies, subscription services, and government agencies. Research currency exchange options and consider opening a bank account in your destination country if possible.
Confirm all travel arrangements and ensure you have the necessary documentation easily accessible. Create copies of important documents and store them separately from originals. Some experienced international movers in Chicago recommend keeping digital copies in cloud storage as an additional backup.
Finalize packing of household goods, working with your moving company to ensure proper preparation for international moving. Many items require special packing methods to survive the journey and meet customs requirements.
Begin language preparation if moving to a country where you don’t speak the local language fluently. Even basic phrases can be invaluable during your first weeks abroad.
Complete the final walkthrough with your moving company and ensure all documentation is in order. Confirm pickup times and ensure someone will be available to oversee the packing and loading process.
Pack your carry-on luggage with essentials for your first few weeks, including clothing, toiletries, medications, important documents, and any items needed for work or school. Remember that your belongings may take several weeks to arrive, depending on moving method and customs processing.
Working with experienced Chicago international moving companies can significantly reduce the stress and complexity of your international relocation. Look for companies with proper licensing, insurance, and positive customer reviews. The best international movers will provide comprehensive services including packing, moving, customs clearance, and delivery to your new home.
Creating the perfect timeline for your international move requires careful planning, attention to detail, and the right professional support. By starting early and working with reputable international movers in Chicago, you can ensure your relocation goes smoothly and your new adventure begins on the right foot. Remember that flexibility is key, as international moves often involve unexpected delays or requirements. With proper planning and professional guidance, your international move can be an exciting journey rather than a stressful ordeal.
The key to success lies in starting early, staying organized, and working with experienced professionals who understand the complexities of international relocations. If you’re looking for the best international moving company in Chicago for your relocation, Allied International is your answer. Call us at 877-685-0355 or get a free quote now to get started!
We carefully and methodically pack and crate your items, ensuring their safe and secure arrival. We take pride in the expert packing, crating, and handling of your possessions.
Our aim is to have your belongings safely and quickly transported to your new location, with a focus on customer service and your utmost satisfaction.
We provide you with a personal moving coordinator. You can check in any time you wish, connecting to the same person who will be very familiar with your particular custom moving plan.
