Moving as an expat from one country to another is always a big step into the future. Whether you’re an expat with some experience or not, our tips below will provide support to create a smooth transition. We have created our expats relocation tips based on our vast experience with international projects. The suggestions are helpful both when moving to the Netherlands or when leaving the Netherlands. Please note that exact requirements may differ, depending on the destination countries and respective regulations.
Documentation
- Check passports and visa: are they valid for the destination country?
- Driver’s licenses: are they also valid for the destination country, is an international driver’s license required?
- Prepare other documentation: such as working permits, employment contracts, diplomas, certificates, degrees (if necessary accurately translated)
- Medical files: ask copies from your doctor, dentist, specialist(s)
- Pets: do you take your pets with you abroad? Then collect all health and vaccination certificates at your veterinarian
- Children: request a statement from the school’s principal regarding their grades, academic results or any other education they have received
- Insurances: check if personal, medical care and automotive insurances are valid and collect the related documents
- Store safely: make sure that all the documents above are put aside since you don’t want them inside any of the boxes or containers when you might need them.
Where to start when moving abroad?
Start early: start as soon as possible and first get rid of all clothing and items you no longer want to keep. Begin with assessing your closets and continue with all rooms one by one.- Our specialists will pack and unpack all items for you. You only need to tell us where you want everything. So create a clear overview of the rooms in your new house and the items that you want to have unpacked in each room.
If there are special items you want to take care of yourself, such as jewelry, make sure you have packed them before our team arrives. Get some good boxes and protection material and pack your belongings very carefully. Be sure to create a clear labeling system if necessary with color codes for each room and a clear list with all inventory and boxes.
Dispose dangerous goods like oil, bleach, paint, flammables, lamp oil, gas cans and toxic chemicals etc.
Dispose perishable foods or open bottles. Also check the import regulations applicable to your country of destination on the latest rules regarding food and alcoholic beverages.
How to prepare everything in advance
In the case you have more than one shipment – for example air and sea or sea and storage – it is very helpful if you can sort out the different items in advance. All larger items can be labelled with a sticker saying ‘air/sea/storage/not going’. For smaller items that are to be packed in boxes it is helpful when they are separated from each other in such a way that a mix up can be avoided. Of course our relocation team will take care of this, only requiring your preferences as input to arrange matters.
Floor coverings, items attached to the ceiling or walls
For each relocation we appoint a personal relocation assistant. He or she will be your single point of contact during the whole process and take care of the project until the last box is unpacked. Please discuss with your relocation assistant how fitted carpets, lamps and fixed items (decorations) need to be treated. We will take care of it.
Refrigerator/freezer
Do not forget to turn these off on time, at least 48 hours in advance. In order to prevent mildew, please make sure that both the inside and outside are cleaned and dried thoroughly. Do not forget the filters and treat the rubber parts and hose with talcum powder to avoid drying out.
Computer and other electrical appliances
If you still have the original boxes for your equipment, it is advisable to use these again. For computer equipment and television please follow the instructions in the manual about transportation. We recommend that you disconnect all equipment yourself before the removal and label the cords so reconnection at destination will be easy.
Bicycles, garden equipment, barbecue, flower pots, golf sets etc.
The above items are of interest in quarantine inspections. Please make sure that they are cleaned thoroughly so that all soil and other dirt are removed. This is to prevent problems at your new destination.
Application for a quick indication
By filling out the form beneath, we will be able to provide you with a price indication on furniture removal.
It will take a max of 2 minutes to fill out the form. Within 1 business day we will send you the quick indication by e-mail.
Rather call us for consulation or advice? We’re there for you: +31 (0)85-124 65 60.