Packing & Moving

However excited you are about moving overseas, few people relish the actual removal process. Any house move is stressful and the fact that your worldly goods and possessions are being shipped to another part of the world only adds to the headache.

Luckily, there are many companies specialising in moving people overseas. Contact the British Association of Removers (BAR) on 020 8861 3331 to find a contractor from among its international member companies.

BAR aims to uphold professional standards across its industry and publishes free leaflets on Moving Overseas and Moving to Europe. It is also affiliated to the Federation of International Furniture Removers (FIDI), so you can find an equally reputable remover overseas.

In addition, check the following:

Does your insurance cover all your belongings? Sometimes small valuables are not covered, so you should carry these in your hand luggage.
Have you made an inventory of all your possessions? You will need this for insurance purposes, as well as for your own reference!
Will the removal company deliver to your residence at the other end, or do you need to organise clearance through customs and local delivery yourself?
What import/export licences and documentation will you need for customs and excise purposes? A BAR-qualified remover should be able to advise you.

Buying before you leave

It's worth checking which of your electrical appliances will work abroad before you pay to ship them – some may have incompatible voltages.
Under the Government's personal export scheme, people who are emigrating or who spend at least 12 months out of the country are allowed to buy certain goods free of VAT, before they depart. For more details, check the HM Customs and Excise website.

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