Shipping to Australia Blog

Moving to Australia can be one of the biggest decisions you will ever make – so its important to do it properly. This is the second in a two part blog series of a checklist of things to remember to do when moving.

FRIENDS & FAMILY – Don’t forget to inform everyone of your new address in Australia and when you’re going (unless you don’t want them to find you, of course Seriously though, saying goodbye to friends and family can be the hardest thing about leaving, be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride as the day of departure draws near.

YOUR BELONGINGS – Will you be shipping everything to Australia or leaving some items in storage (or even getting rid of them completely)? How will you ship your belongings? Can you pack them yourself or do you need the full services of a moving company? Set aside those things you need to take with you in person so they don’t get packed accidentally (passports, tickets, etc.)

INSURANCE – Once you’ve decided what you’re shipping, insure it. If you haven’t already arranged appropriate insurance (health/life/travel, etc.) for yourself and your family as well…DO SO!

BANKING – You may need to open a new bank account in your new country – look for information on the one which suits you best. Do you need to close your current bank account? At the very least you’ll need to tell your current bank that you’re moving.

CREDIT CARDS – Credit card companies need to be informed you’re moving. Also, will the credit cards you’re taking with you be widely accepted?

DRIVING – Depending on where you’re going and how long you’re going to be there you may need to apply for a new driving license or even take a driving test. Will you take your car with you or buy/rent/lease one when you get to your destination country?

UTILITIES etc – Gas, electricity, cable companies and so on will need to be informed of your departure and contracts terminated where appropriate. Make arrangements for final meter readings and bill payments.

POST REDIRECTION – Having your mail redirected after you leave can prevent you from missing something important.

ELECTRIC DEVICES AND MOBILE PHONES – Check whether or not your TV, video, hair dryer, alarm clock etc will work in the new country. You may need to take out a new network subscription for a mobile phone (or buy a new one with a subscription) – watch out for roaming charges with your current phone if you use it.

EMAIL – If moving means you can’t keep your current email address, consider a free web based email account you can access from anywhere.

And finally, a couple of important tips for when you get to your new country…

MAKE FRIENDS – Whether locals or fellow expats, nothing will help you more than being able to rely on the assistance of your friends when you need it. Don’t think that socializing is time wasted, it’s what makes a new country feel like home.

DON’T BE TOO HARD ON YOURSELF – Moving to a new country is difficult. Even when everything goes according to plan it’s still difficult. There will be times when you’re physically and emotionally exhausted but try not to let things get on top of you. Don’t be shy about asking for help or support, there are plenty of people who have been there before.

Good luck!

Jamie Morris is the founder of Expat Focus -http://www.ExpatFocus.com – a leading website packed with information and tips for anyone moving abroad. Register at Expat Focus today and join us in the forums: http://www.ExpatFocus.com/register

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Morris

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