3 Important Considerations when Moving Abroad

Moving Abroad: For some adults, there comes a time when there is a need to leave their native country and move abroad permanently. This can be a result of landing an important promotion for a multinational firm that has offices in other countries, moving abroad to retire to a warmer climate, or simply satisfying your urge to explore other parts of the world. Regardless of the reasons for the emigration, setting up in a new country can be a complex and potentially stressful endeavor.

There is likely to be a vast range of actions that need to be taken before the move can take place with time and planning being needed to accomplish each task effectively. If you are aiming to move abroad permanently, you may have already started the process of planning and preparing, ideally having several months to ensure that everything is in place. This article focuses on three key considerations that are relevant to a broad range of foreign destinations when looking to emigrate.

1. Courier firms for Bulky Goods

Firstly, it is important to recognize that you may need to ship a range of bulky items to your new country. Most likely, you will travel by air to your destination and be restricted to taking a few suitcases and some in-flight baggage. For bulky or heavy items that are vital, it is wise to investigate a range of courier/shipping firms, such as shiply.com, with experience in shipping such goods overseas.

These types of firms may be able to offer you a competitive quote in a matter of minutes when you type in the goods that need to be shipped and the start and end points of the journey on their websites. They are often far cheaper than air freight services, as many rely on land transport vehicles to ship a range of bulk goods on longer journeys.

2. Language Considerations

If you are planning to relocate to a country that does not speak your native tongue, it is important to consider learning at least an elementary level of language proficiency. Regardless of whether you will be employed by a native-speaking firm or move to live near relatives who speak your language, you will still need to go to the shops and arrange other common daily activities that require a basic knowledge of the new language.

Thankfully, in 2024, there is a wide range of effective language-learning apps that can help you gain a working knowledge of a foreign tongue in a matter of weeks or months. Many of these apps can be accessed for free, before deciding if you wish to unlock premium, paid-for features that will boost your understanding of the language. In short, learning a foreign language’s basics can help you settle into your new country and take a more active part in community life.

3. Ex-pat Communities

Briefly, it may also be highly beneficial to consider moving to an area that has a thriving ex-pat community when you emigrate. Put simply, these are areas in the foreign country that have groups of people from your home country (or who speak your native language as their first language) living in one area. Such communities may also have shared shopping, leisure, or recreational spaces that encourage groups of ex-pats to get together and create strong friendships.

In short, it is important to consider that moving abroad can be emotionally challenging, especially when your lifestyle and daily routines change markedly. Having a community of ex-pats in your vicinity can help with the social and friendship aspects of living abroad, making the experience less daunting and more pleasurable.