7 relocation hacks to make moving easier

Whether you’re a first-time mover or experienced traveller, there is always a tip or two to learn before a big move. Which is why Crown Relocations has put together some of their top relocations hacks to make your move easier. Hopefully it will take away some of that unnecessary stress that usually accompanies moving house (and countries)!

Think electronic

Everyone has a notebook or piece of paper on which they write important information. For some people this can be pin numbers and passwords, for others addresses and phone numbers of loved ones.

Paper can be misplaced or accidentally thrown away in the madness of moving. Get one step ahead by typing up your important information into your phone or computer. Having a digital copy means it will be safely stored for travel, ready whenever you need it.

Put your health first

Research health insurance for your planned new home country. Speak to an expert about whether you’ll need to pay for coverage and their recommendations for whether you’ll need to organise this before you go. Knowing the right steps to take for your health coverage will be one less thing to worry about.

Pets abroad

If you own any pets or are thinking about getting one before you leave, look into the regulations around bringing pets into your new home country early. There is no one rule for all countries, so spend some time investigating and seeking expert advice on any legalities needed to take your pet with you. After all, a pet is a part of the family too!

Plan ahead

Consider the time of day you’ll be arriving at your new home. Will it be very late? If so, be sure to pack food and drinks for when you arrive, as shops nearby could be shut for the night, leaving you hungry 'til morning!

Also, when travelling, consider what you’re going to need to have with you on your journey. Pack a bag of essentials - documents, chargers, toothpaste, spare clothes and medicines. This will also be a handy back up if you have an unplanned hotel stop along the way.

Organise for an easy arrival

Wires are a potential tangle situation waiting to happen. You can avoid the frustration of detangling at your new home by threading wires through toilet rolls.

Confused by where the wires go in your TV and other electronics? Take a picture of the cable set up before disconnecting, so when you arrive it will be easy to get up and running again.

For the makeup wearers, prevent your powder cracking by placing a cotton wool pad in between the powder and lid.

Kids and moving

Include the kids when making plans for the relocation and encourage them to search for local activities and places to eat when you arrive. Use this research to plan your first family weekend when you arrive, giving you all something to look forward to.

To keep your kids occupied during the move, make a "moving package" in advance. Include their favourite toys, books and snacks, and a world map to help them plot the journey ahead.

Lists to make your life easier

Lists are going to be extremely handy as you prepare for your move. With so many different things to consider and different timeframes to work towards, having everything written down will stop you from missing anything. Group tasks by date and rate them (1- 3) based on priority in a format that works for you. Check it daily and you’ll work through the tasks in no time.

Potentially facing a language barrier when you arrive? In the upcoming weeks, keep a note of some of the phrases you’ll need in your first few weeks, such as greetings, directions and ordering food. It’s also worth researching any phrases or gestures that are not appreciated in your new country, to avoid any uncomfortable situations.

Planning on moving to the Netherlands? Crown Relocations has been helping families and individuals relocate internationally for over fifty years! They offer a variety of services to make sure you feel at home in no time.