Moving Abroad from the U.S.? Use This Essential Expat Checklist
Planning an international move? Whether relocating from California to Australia, Texas to the UK, or New York to Germany, moving abroad as a U.S. expat is complex, involving visas, shipping logistics, and emotional transitions. SDC International Shipping offers this comprehensive international moving checklist to simplify your overseas relocation. Call 877-339-0267 or request a free quote to start planning today.
Our expert team guides you from 120 days out to settling abroad, ensuring a seamless move for Americans nationwide. With tailored services, we help you navigate customs, packing, and logistics, making your U.S. expat relocation stress-free. Visit www.sdcinternationalshipping.com to learn more.
90–120 Days Out: Research & Planning
Begin researching your destination’s entry requirements, cost of living, healthcare system, housing options, and local laws. Explore neighborhoods, schools (if applicable), and job markets to set realistic expectations. For example, a California family moving to Australia researched Sydney’s suburbs to find family-friendly areas, easing their transition.
Choose your international mover early. SDC offers free consultations to assess your move, explain Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) options, and outline customs responsibilities for restricted items like electronics or alcohol. A Florida client moving to Spain valued our early planning support, avoiding last-minute stress.
| Timeline | Key Tasks |
|---|---|
| 90–120 Days | Research destination, choose mover |
| 60–90 Days | Apply for visa, organize documents |
| 30–60 Days | Declutter, start inventory |
| 14–30 Days | Handle utilities, confirm logistics |
| 1–2 Weeks | Pack essentials, finalize documents |
60–90 Days Out: Visas, Documents & Moving Plans
Apply for the appropriate visa and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Families or pet owners may need additional documents like school records or health certificates. A Texas couple moving to the UK secured their Tier 2 visa early, avoiding delays.
Organize personal records: birth certificates, school transcripts, vaccination records, insurance policies, and marriage licenses. Digitize copies for easy access, as these are often required for residency or services abroad. A New York client moving to Germany used our document checklist to streamline this process.
Book your move with SDC during this period. We’ll confirm shipment size, container type, and assist with your detailed inventory list, crucial for customs clearance. Learn about our international moving services.
30–60 Days Out: Declutter, Pack & Prepare
Declutter room by room, deciding what to ship, store, sell, or donate. SDC offers professional packing and custom crating for fragile items like artwork, antiques, or electronics. A Colorado client moving to Canada praised our crating for their piano, which arrived intact.
Separate air freight (urgent items like documents or clothing) from ocean freight (bulk items like furniture). Create a detailed inventory list with item descriptions and values for customs. Explore our packing and crating services.
Notify banks, insurance providers, and credit card companies of your move. Order prescription refills to cover your first months abroad, ensuring continuity of care. A Chicago client moving to France found these steps critical for a smooth transition.
14–30 Days Out: Logistics & Utilities
Submit change-of-address forms with USPS and cancel or transfer utilities, subscriptions, and memberships. Schedule final medical, dental, and vet appointments. A Florida family moving to Costa Rica appreciated our reminders for these tasks, keeping them on track.
SDC confirms your move date, pickup time, and documentation status. If shipping a vehicle with household goods, we guide you through requirements like titles and emissions compliance. Learn about vehicle shipping.
1–2 Weeks Out: Final Prep & Farewells
Pack a carry-on with essential documents, medications, chargers, and valuables. Prepare a suitcase with items for your first week abroad, like clothing and toiletries. An Illinois client moving to Canada relied on this step for a comfortable arrival.
Spend time with friends and family through gatherings or virtual farewells to find closure. Double-check flight, hotel, and housing arrangements. Confirm customs documents with your SDC specialist to avoid last-minute issues.
Move Day: What to Expect
On move day, SDC’s team arrives to complete packing (if requested) and load your container. We review the final inventory and provide a shipping timeline. You’ll receive tracking details and contact info for your destination agent, allowing you to focus on travel.
“SDC’s checklist and tracking made our move to Australia seamless.”
Family from California
Request a free quote to plan your move with confidence.
After Arrival: Settling In Abroad
Register with local authorities if required, open a bank account, enroll children in school, and arrange health insurance. Our local partners coordinate delivery and unpacking, assisting with customs queries. A Colorado client moving to Canada valued our support during delivery.
Learn about our customs clearance process.
Navigating Customs Regulations
Customs regulations vary by country, but SDC’s experts simplify the process. We provide templates for inventory lists and guide you on restricted items like food or electronics. A New York client moving to Germany avoided penalties thanks to our proactive customs support.
We coordinate with destination authorities to ensure compliance, minimizing delays. Visit our customs guide for detailed advice.
Pet Relocation Guidance
SDC does not offer pet transportation but connects you with trusted pet relocation specialists for international requirements like health certificates and vaccinations. A California client moving to the UK ensured their dog’s safe arrival with our referral. Call 877-339-0267 for pet shipping guidance.
We advise on destination-specific pet rules, such as Australia’s quarantine or Canada’s vaccination requirements, ensuring a smooth transition for your pets.
Storage Solutions for Flexible Moves
If your new home isn’t ready, SDC offers secure, climate-controlled storage for short- or long-term needs. A Texas client moving to Australia used our storage for furniture while awaiting their visa, appreciating our digital inventory tracking. Explore our storage solutions.
Cultural Adaptation for U.S. Expats
Embrace your new culture by learning basic phrases in the local language, like Spanish for Costa Rica or German for Germany. Research customs, such as dining etiquette or social norms, to integrate smoothly. A Florida client moving to Spain joined an expat group, easing their transition.
SDC provides tailored cultural tips to help you build community abroad, whether in Brazil or Canada.
Technology and Communications Support
SDC tracks and monitors your shipment from pickup to delivery. Access digital inventories via our secure client portal for At SDC International Shipping, we don’t rely on a public tracking app, but we do stay in close contact with all parties involved in your move, from the origin port to final delivery. If there are any delays or changes, your dedicated relocation specialist will proactively update you so there are no surprises.
An Illinois client moving to Canada appreciated the regular updates and clear communication that eased stress throughout their relocation journey.
“SDC kept us informed every step of our move to France—even when delays happened, we knew what to expect.”
– Professional from Chicago
Success Stories from U.S. Expats
SDC has guided countless expats through international moves. A California family relocating to Australia praised our customs support, while a New York retiree moving to Germany valued our packing expertise. A Texas professional moving to the UK said, “SDC made our relocation effortless.”
“From Florida to Spain, SDC’s checklist was a lifesaver.”
Retiree couple
Check our testimonials for more stories.
How SDC Supports You Every Step
SDC offers end-to-end support, from consultation to delivery, minimizing delays and stress. Our services include:
- Professional packing and custom crating
- Inventory documentation and customs support
- Insurance options for high-value items
- Vehicle shipping with household goods
- Real-time tracking and client portal access
- Secure storage solutions
Explore our international moving insurance.
Expat Resources and Communities
Connect with expat communities via platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or Internations.org. Join forums or meetups in your destination city to build connections. Cultural orientation programs and language exchanges can accelerate your adjustment abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed for an international move?
You’ll need a passport, visa, detailed inventory, and proof of residency (e.g., lease agreement). SDC provides templates to streamline customs documentation.
How long does an international move take?
Ocean freight to Europe or Australia takes 4–8 weeks; Canada may take 1–3 weeks. SDC minimizes delays with proactive customs coordination.
Can I ship furniture abroad?
Yes, SDC uses specialized packing to protect furniture like sofas or dining tables during transit, ensuring pristine condition.
How do I ship a car internationally?
SDC ships vehicles only with household goods in containers, simplifying customs and reducing costs. We handle documentation like titles and emissions compliance.
What items are restricted for international shipping?
Prohibited items include firearms, perishable foods, and certain medications. Restricted items like alcohol or electronics may require permits. SDC provides a compliance list.
Final Thoughts & Must-Have Reminders
- Triple-check visa, passport, and flight details.
- Back up digital files and make document copies.
- Label boxes clearly for easy unpacking.
- Stay flexible for unexpected challenges.
With SDC International Shipping’s checklist, your international move becomes manageable. Let us guide your U.S. expat relocation.
