Common Mistakes to Avoid During International Relocation

The most common relocation mistakes, and how Asian Tigers Group helps you avoid them.

Moving abroad is one of life’s most exciting transitions, but it can also be one of the most complex. Between planning, packing, documentation, and cultural adjustment, many people find themselves overwhelmed by the details. Even the smallest oversight can lead to unnecessary stress, delays, or extra costs.

With over 60 years of relocation experience across Asia, Asian Tigers Group has seen and helped clients avoid virtually every possible moving mistake. As a leader in international moving and mobility solutions, the company knows what it takes to ensure a smooth and successful relocation.

According to GitNux’s Relocation Industry Statistics (2025), about 60% of companies now offer full relocation packages to employees, and the industry is rapidly adopting sustainable practices. For example, around 30% of firms report using eco‑friendly packing materials.

Drawing from expert insight, real client experiences, and the 2025 ATG ChatBar AI Report, which identified common customer pain points, this guide outlines the top mistakes to avoid during your international move and how to prevent them.

1. Starting the Process Too Late

One of the most frequent mistakes is waiting too long to begin. International moves involve multiple steps: pre-move surveys, packing, customs clearance, shipping, and delivery coordination. These can take several weeks or even months.

Asian Tigers Group advises clients to start planning at least three months in advance. This timeline allows enough room for accurate volume estimates, booking shipments, and completing documentation.

Early planning also helps you secure the most favorable shipping dates, avoiding high-demand seasons that can lead to delays or increased costs.

2. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company

Not all movers are equipped for international relocation. Selecting a company without global experience or proper accreditation is a costly mistake.

Asian Tigers Group is a FIDI-accredited and OMNI-member mover, meaning it adheres to internationally recognized quality and ethical standards. The company provides door-to-door service, coordinating every step, from packing to customs, to ensure accountability and consistency.

Before hiring a mover, always check for:

• Proven track record in international moves
• Transparent quotes and insurance options
• Global partnerships and compliance certifications

Choosing an experienced partner like Asian Tigers means you won’t be left navigating overseas logistics alone.

3. Underestimating Customs Requirements

Every destination has unique customs regulations, and misunderstanding them can result in fines or delayed shipments.

The ATG ChatBar AI Report (May 2025) confirmed that customs documentation is one of the top topics clients ask about. Asian Tigers helps prevent issues by guiding customers through country-specific customs guides, ensuring all documents, such as packing lists, work permits, and import forms, are complete and accurate.

Some of the most commonly restricted or prohibited items include:

• Alcohol and tobacco
• Plants, seeds, and soil
• Hazardous goods (e.g., lithium batteries, cleaning chemicals)
• Political or explicit materials

Proper preparation and honest disclosure are the best ways to avoid customs complications.

4. Attempting to Pack Everything Yourself

DIY packing might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it’s one of the biggest risks you can take. Poor packing can result in damaged goods, rejected insurance claims, or even customs issues.

Asian Tigers employs trained professional packers who use high-quality materials like reinforced cartons, custom crates, and acid-free tissue paper. Their packing methods are tailored to each item type, whether it’s fine art, electronics, or antiques.

Additionally, each item is barcoded and inventoried, providing a clear digital record for shipment documentation and claims. Professional packing not only protects your belongings but also helps support a smoother shipping and customs experience.

5. Forgetting to Insure Your Shipment

Even with expert handling, unexpected events, such as extreme weather, vessel delays, or port congestion, can happen. Without insurance, you may be left financially responsible for loss or damage during transit.

Asian Tigers offers insurance options for goods in transit, including coverage during maritime transport. Their move managers explain your policy terms, valuation methods, and claim procedures so you know exactly what’s included.

Skipping insurance is a common and easily avoidable mistake. Confirming coverage in advance helps protect your shipment and your peace of mind.

6. Ignoring Storage Needs

Sometimes, your new home isn’t ready when your shipment arrives. Failing to plan for temporary or long-term storage can lead to last-minute scrambling.

Asian Tigers provides short and long-term storage solutions. Their warehouses are CCTV-monitored and professionally managed, to ensure your possessions remain secure.

By planning storage in advance, you can avoid unnecessary rush charges and guarantee smooth delivery once your residence is ready.

7. Overlooking Special Handling Requirements

Many moves include special items, such as vehicles, pianos, pets, or artwork that require specialized handling and documentation.

According to Asian Tigers’ relocation insights, vehicle and pet relocations are among the most complex services. The company partners with Silk Relo, its dedicated pet relocation arm, and uses customized containers for fine art and musical instruments.

Failing to disclose or properly prepare these items can cause customs rejections or damage during transport. Always inform your mover early about any high-value or special cargo so they can prepare accordingly.

8. Neglecting Cultural and Emotional Preparation

Logistics are only part of the relocation equation. Many families focus so heavily on the physical move that they forget the emotional and cultural transition that follows.

Asian Tigers supports this aspect through destination orientation services, cultural integration guidance, and its podcast, “The Global Move.” These resources help clients adapt to new environments, schools, and social systems.

Researching your destination’s customs, etiquette, and lifestyle before arrival can help reduce culture shock and make settling in easier.

9. Overpacking or Shipping Restricted Goods

Trying to take everything you own can increase costs and cause customs issues. It’s important to downsize strategically.

Asian Tigers encourages clients to separate belongings into categories: ship, store, sell, or donate. This not only cuts shipping volume but also supports the company’s sustainability goals, which include minimizing waste and promoting reuse.

Avoid packing prohibited items or hazardous materials, as they can delay your shipment and attract additional inspection fees.

10. Failing to Communicate with Your Move Coordinator

Perhaps the most easily overlooked mistake is failing to maintain regular communication with your move coordinator.

At Asian Tigers, each client is assigned a dedicated relocation manager who acts as a single point of contact. They provide real-time updates on shipment progress, customs clearance, and delivery scheduling.

The ChatBar AI Report noted that customers highly value this human connection and transparency. Open communication ensures your questions are answered promptly and any issues are resolved quickly.

Bonus Tip: Forgetting About Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming a major priority for both individuals and corporations. Choosing an eco-conscious mover helps reduce environmental impact. Relocate Magazine’s 2025 trends report highlights that technology and sustainability are among the top themes in global mobility, with many firms increasing digital tools and ESG strategies in relocation programmes.

Asian Tigers is committed to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) excellence, using recyclable packing materials and optimizing shipping routes to minimize carbon emissions. Moving responsibly isn’t just better for the planet; it reflects a commitment to ethical relocation.

Why Trust Asian Tigers Group

• Global Expertise: Over 60 years of relocation experience across 14 Asian territories.
• Comprehensive Services: Packing, shipping, customs, insurance, and destination support.
• Award-Winning Recognition: Multiple FIDI and Expat Living Readers’ Choice Awards.
• Eco-Friendly Commitment: Industry leadership in sustainability and ESG compliance.
• Personalized Care: Dedicated move coordinators and transparent communication.

Asian Tigers Group has built its reputation on delivering efficient, secure, and customer-focused relocations for individuals and corporations alike.

Final Thoughts

International relocation doesn’t have to be stressful or uncertain. By avoiding these common mistakes and partnering with a trusted expert like Asian Tigers Group, you can transform a complex move into a smooth, well-coordinated journey.

From meticulous planning to professional packing and sustainable logistics, Asian Tigers ensures that your belongings, and your peace of mind, arrive safely at your new home.

To begin planning your move or to learn more about relocation best practices, visit asiantigersgroup.com. Let Asian Tigers handle the details, so you can focus on what truly matters: your new beginning abroad.

Further Reading  

[1] GitNux. (2025). Relocation Industry Statistics. https://www.gitnux.org/relocation‑industry‑statistics/

[2] Relocate Magazine. (2024). Into 2025: Ten Relocation and Global Mobility Trends. https://www.relocatemagazine.com/ten‑key‑relocation‑trends‑for‑2025/

[3] Relocation Today. (2025). 2025 Global Mobility Trends & Corporate Relocation Updates. https://www.relocationtoday.com/2025‑global‑mobility‑trends/