Moving Abroad Checklist (Free PDF Download)
Cancelling services, preparing documents, packing, and registering in your new country—there’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we’ve…
Relocating to another country is a big step. And if you’re not well prepared, it can quickly turn into a stressful experience. Many people underestimate the small details—only to be surprised by unexpected expenses, border delays, or chaos during unpacking.
In this article, we’ll go over five of the most common mistakes made during international moves—and more importantly, how to avoid them.
Paperwork is often where things go wrong. Many people don’t check what they’ll actually need until it’s too late—causing issues when entering the country or registering with local authorities.
For example, if you’re moving to the UK, starting April 2025, you’ll need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). It only takes a few minutes to apply online, but without it, you may not be allowed to enter the country at all.
More about this change in our article: ETA and the New Entry Requirements for the UK.
Packing is one of the biggest sources of confusion during a move. If you’re not well prepared, you’ll be digging for basic items on arrival—and risk damage along the way. Unlabeled boxes, missing essentials, or poorly wrapped fragile items can turn a move into a nightmare.
Use sturdy boxes, label everything clearly, and pack essentials for your first few days separately.
Want to make sure everything arrives safe and stress-free? Consider using our professional packing service.
Transporting your belongings isn’t just about loading a van and hitting the road. Each country has its own requirements—different road rules, mandatory equipment, and toll systems. For example, in France you need to carry a breathalyzer in your car; in Austria, a toll sticker is required. If you don’t check in advance, you could face unnecessary complications.
Moving abroad often ends up being more expensive than it first appears. Beyond the cost of transport, you may also face customs fees, storage charges, or surcharges for heavy or oversized items. Fuel costs can also add up—especially on longer routes—and easily exceed your original budget.
Need more info? Read our article: How Much Does Moving Abroad Cost?
At first glance, a DIY move may seem simpler and cheaper. But in reality, it often means more stress, more confusion, and more unexpected expenses. It’s not just about packing boxes. You also have to handle transport, heavy lifting, logistics, and customs paperwork. Miss one important detail, and it can cost you time and money.
Doing everything yourself takes serious planning—not to mention time, energy, and often equipment or vehicle rental. People often forget to book a suitable van, arrange insurance, or align moving dates with property handovers. These small details often decide whether you save money—or end up paying more than you would with a professional mover.
An international move involves dozens of moving parts, and keeping track of every detail can be overwhelming. Especially if it’s your first time, it’s easy to miss something important.
That’s why it makes sense to work with professionals who specialize in international relocations and know exactly what needs to be done. You’ll avoid stress, sidestep common pitfalls, and have peace of mind that everything is handled smoothly and securely.
Don’t want to handle it all yourself? Get in touch—we’ll be happy to help and prepare a no-obligation quote based on your needs.
