When moving to a new country, many people get swept up in the excitement of living abroad, and for good reason. You will have so many new experiences and meet different people, so it’s understandable that you are feeling thrilled. On the other hand, you shouldn’t neglect the other side of an international move – planning it out. Before you can start enjoying your new life, you have to make sure that you arrive there safely. In order to know exactly how much you can spend on the move, and how much you will have after it, you should create a budget for your international move. This helpful tool isn’t overly complicated to make, so follow our guide and learn how to do it in no time!
Use your computer to create a budget for your international move
To have all the information in one place, it is a good idea to create a spreadsheet for your moving budget. There are many helpful tools and programs out there, from the most basic ones to the more elaborate. For example, if you want a simple-to-use tool, you can make a spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel. However, if you would prefer to make a physical spreadsheet, you can simply draw a table on a larger piece of paper and write in all the categories. Whatever you choose, make sure to include every item of your budget.
If you are relocating your business overseas, you need to ensure the safety of your products. There is no better way to keep perishable items fresh than by using cold chain services Saudi Arabia. Many industries, such as produce, pharmaceutical, or the frozen food industry, will need these services when moving their products across great distances.
How will you relocate?
Before you start creating your international moving budget, you need to think about how you will move. There are essentially two options: you can hire a professional moving company, or you can move by yourself. Let’s look at what you will need in both of these cases:
With the help of professionals
While professional movers can definitely make your move easier and less stressful, you need to find the right ones. Don’t settle for the cheapest moving company, as it can often turn out to be a scam. Instead, ask for recommendations from friends and online, and browse on your own. Find a company that you can afford, but also one that suits your needs. For example, if you have items that need to be shipped overseas, you should opt for one of the cargo companies in Jubail. Once you do choose a moving company, here are some things you should include in your moving budget:
- The cost of the move – obtain a quote from your movers; many companies offer a free moving estimate, so take advantage of it
- Moving insurance – some moving companies will need you to pay separately for moving insurance, but know that this is definitely a cost worth spending on
- Additional services – do you have any heavy or bulky items to move, such as a piano? You might need to pay for them separately.
- Tips for the movers – always plan for tipping the movers that help you, at least $10 per person
- Packing services – if the moving company also helps you pack, you should definitely include it when you create a budget for your international move
Moving by yourself
Although moving by yourself is not always the ideal scenario, sometimes you don’t have the option of hiring a moving company. If this is the case, you need to be prepared as best as possible. First of all, you will have to rent a truck to move all of your belongings. On the other hand, you might ship your items overseas. In both cases, add these costs to your international moving budget.
Furthermore, you will have to pack your entire home by yourself. This will not only take time but money as well. Don’t try to skimp on packing supplies and materials. When you are moving overseas, your items will travel across a great distance. That is why you need to use the best materials and pack them as securely as possible. Finally, get travel insurance for you and your family. You never know when something unplanned might happen, so it’s best to cover all fronts.
Add traveling costs when you create a budget for your international move
Many people who move to a new country decide to fly there. This is a great way to save time, but also money. While plane tickets might seem more expensive than simply driving, it’s actually the other way around. With an airplane, you don’t have to pay for gas, road tolls, parking fees, etc. Moreover, if you want to get the best deal when booking your flight, it’s best to start looking early. As soon as you know that you’re moving to another country, you should book your tickets. This will ensure that you pay the least amount of money for them.
Another thing to consider is whether you will be able to move into your new home right away. If the answer is no, you also need to include accommodation fees in your budget. Will you stay with friends or at a hotel? While it may not seem like a big deal, forgetting to add this when planning your budget might cost you dearly.
Are you selling your old home?
Whether you are selling your home or leaving your rental one, you need to include these costs when you create a budget for your international move. For those selling their own homes, there are many fees you need to keep in mind, such as those of the real estate agent, advertising your open house, and legal fees.
Alternatively, renters will have to pay a fee to their landlord if they haven’t given enough notice prior to moving out. Also, you will have to spend some money on cleaning and repairing your home, if there are any major or minor alterations to be made. When you have your moving budget in front of you, all of these steps will seem more doable and realistic, so don’t hesitate to create one for your international move.
