Top Tips for a Smooth International Relocation

Moving internationally is both an exciting adventure and a major logistical challenge. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or personal growth, it involves much more than just packing boxes. From navigating customs and securing visas to handling culture shock and settling into your new home, there are dozens of moving parts—literally and figuratively.

At Asian Tigers Group, we’ve supported thousands of successful international relocations across Asia and beyond. We know what works, what doesn’t, and how to help our clients avoid the most common pitfalls.

If you’re planning a move abroad, here are our top tips for ensuring a smooth international relocation.

1. Start Planning Early—Really Early

The number one tip? Start sooner than you think you need to. International relocations take time to coordinate—especially when it comes to:

• Visas and work permits
• Customs regulations and required documents
• Shipping timelines
• School enrollment
• Home search (both origin and destination)

We recommend starting the process at least 3–6 months before your move date.

Asian Tigers can guide you through every step, from documentation to customs compliance, ensuring you avoid last-minute stress and delays.

2. Understand Customs and Import Rules

Every country has its own customs rules, including what you can and can’t bring, duties and taxes, and documentation requirements. These rules may vary depending on:

• Your citizenship/residency status
• The type of goods (e.g., alcohol, electronics, lithium batteries, pets)
• Country-specific restrictions (e.g., Thailand, Australia, and Japan are especially strict)

We always advise clients to check official FIDI Customs Guides or consult our relocation specialists. A small mistake—like bringing in prohibited items—can lead to shipment delays, fines, or confiscation.

3. Use Professional Packers for International Moves

One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating the importance of professional export-standard packing.

At Asian Tigers, we offer:

• Export-grade boxes and packing materials
• Specialty crating for fragile or high-value items
• Custom solutions for pianos, art, antiques, and electronics
• Inventory tagging and barcode tracking

When you let the experts handle packing, you minimize the risk of damage and ensure your items comply with international shipping standards.

4. Consider Insurance Seriously

International moves come with more risk due to longer transit, multiple handovers, and exposure to customs inspections. Even with the best handling, unexpected incidents can occur.

We recommend Full Replacement Value Insurance (FRVI) to protect your shipment against loss or damage.

• Covers repair or replacement of damaged items
• Offers peace of mind when shipping high-value goods
• Often required for customs claims if damage occurs

Talk to your relocation consultant about coverage options based on your shipment size and destination.

5. Declutter Before You Pack

International shipping is charged by volume (cubic meters), not weight. That means the more you bring, the more you pay.

Before your move:

• Sell or donate items you no longer use
• Digitize documents and photos to reduce paper
• Avoid shipping prohibited or restricted items
• Downsize furniture that may not fit in your new home

As a general rule: If you don’t love it, use it, or need it—leave it.

6. Make a Detailed Inventory List

A proper inventory is essential for:

• Insurance claims
• Customs clearance
• Tracking and delivery
• Unpacking and organizing

Our teams at Asian Tigers create detailed, barcode-tagged inventories for every shipment. You’ll know exactly what’s going where—and what to expect when it arrives.

7. Keep Essentials With You

Your shipment may take several weeks to arrive, especially if moving by sea. Be sure to pack a “first week essentials kit” in your luggage:

• Clothes for a few days
• Medications and toiletries
• Important documents (passport, visas, customs forms)
• Electronics and chargers
• Bedding or towels
• Kids’ toys or comfort items
• Work or school materials if starting immediately

Think of it as your personal “travel survival kit.”

8. Plan for Storage If Needed

Your new home may not be ready when you arrive—or you may need time to find one. That’s where Storage-in-Transit (SIT) comes in.

Asian Tigers offers:

• Short- and long-term storage options
• Climate-controlled facilities
• Secure, monitored warehouses
• Flexible redelivery scheduling

We can store your items at origin or destination and deliver when you’re ready.

9. Support Children Through the Move

If you’re relocating with kids, involve them in the process and maintain routines as much as possible. Our advice:

• Talk openly about the move
• Let them pack a small “comfort kit”
• Stick to bedtime and mealtime schedules
• Help them say goodbye to friends
• Explore schools and fun activities in advance

Check out our full guide on Moving Internationally with Children for more family-focused advice.

10. Understand the Cost Factors

International moving costs vary widely based on:

• Volume (how much you ship)
• Distance (origin to destination)
• Mode of transport (sea vs. air)
• Packing and unpacking services
• Customs duties and taxes
• Storage or temporary housing needs

We provide customized quotes and detailed breakdowns so you understand exactly what you’re paying for—and where you can save.

Use our Cost of Living Guide for Asia to plan beyond the move itself.

11. Settle In With Destination Support

Relocating isn’t just about shipping—it’s about settling in. We help clients with:

• Orientation tours
• Temporary housing
• Home and school search
• Language and cultural guidance
• Visa and registration support

Whether you’re moving to Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, or anywhere else in Asia, our local teams are there to help you manage the landing.

12. Stay Flexible and Communicative

International moves rarely go 100% according to plan. Customs delays, shipping changes, or last-minute logistics are all part of the journey.

Stay flexible and in close contact with your relocation provider. A reliable moving partner will:

• Keep you updated at every stage
• Help you adjust delivery if needed
• Step in to resolve issues quickly

That’s what we do at Asian Tigers—every day, for every client.

Final Thoughts: Preparation = Peace of Mind

A smooth international move doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of planning, communication, expert support, and attention to detail.

By following these tips—and partnering with an experienced international relocation provider—you’ll be able to enjoy the journey, not just survive it. Contact our specialist and we’ll help you plan your international relocation.