How to Plan Your International Relocation in 2025

Whether you’re moving for work, education, lifestyle, or family, an international relocation is one of the most exciting and complex chapters of life. And in 2025, with evolving global regulations, supply chain fluctuations, and increasing demand for mobility services, proper planning is more essential than ever.

At Asian Tigers Group, we help thousands of individuals and families navigate international moves across Asia and beyond. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to plan your international relocation smoothly, confidently, and efficiently—with practical tips rooted in real trends from 2024 and projections for 2025.

Step 1: Start Planning 4–6 Months in Advance

The number one mistake people make when moving abroad? Starting too late.

In 2025, visa processing, school enrollments, international shipping, and home searches can still take longer than expected, especially in countries with tight customs controls or housing markets.

At 6 months before departure:

• Research destination visa and work permit requirements
• Begin comparing international moving companies
• Create a budget and estimate moving costs
• Inform your employer or school of your plans
• Create a personal and/or family timeline

Pro tip: Use a relocation calendar to track important milestones like packing dates, visa deadlines, and utility cancellations.

Step 2: Choose a Reputable International Mover

International relocation isn’t just about boxes and containers—it’s about strategy, documentation, and destination support. That’s why it’s vital to choose a FIDI-accredited mover with regional experience and customs knowledge.

When comparing providers, ask:

• Are they licensed for international moves?
• Do they offer pre-move surveys (virtual or in-person)?
• What packing and valuation options are available?
• Do they assist with customs paperwork?
• Do they have support in both origin and destination?

At Asian Tigers, we offer full-service international relocations with destination guides, valuation protection, export-standard packing, and storage options tailored to your timeline.

Step 3: Set a Realistic Budget

A successful international move begins with a clear, informed budget. In 2025, moving costs continue to be affected by:

• Freight rate volatility (due to fuel prices, labor shortages, geopolitical events)
• Volume and weight of your shipment
• Origin/destination distance
• Packing and crating services
• Customs duties, taxes, and inspections
• Temporary housing and storage

Contact the Asian Tigers’ team and we’ll help you plan for both fixed and flexible expenses.

Don’t forget to budget for:

• Visa and legal fees
• Pet relocation or vehicle shipping (if applicable)
• Insurance and contingency reserves

Step 4: Prepare Visas, Documents, and Customs Forms Early

One of the biggest sources of relocation stress is paperwork. Depending on your destination, you’ll likely need:

• Valid passports
• Work permits or long-term visas
• School records and immunization forms (for children)
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Customs forms (e.g., Australia’s B534e)
• Import/export permits for special items (like vehicles or art)

Important: Customs regulations vary by country and can be strict. Certain countries restrict used electronics, antiques, lithium battery-powered devices, or even certain food and medicine.

Check your destination’s FIDI Customs Guide or ask your Asian Tigers move consultant for help.

Step 5: Declutter and Downsize Smartly

The more you move, the more it costs. Use this opportunity to simplify your life and reduce excess volume.

Sort your belongings into:

• To ship
• To carry
• To store
• To donate, sell, or recycle

Pay special attention to:

• Outdated appliances (may not work with new voltage)
• Bulky furniture (may not fit your new home)
• Expired documents or paperwork
• Books, clothes, or kids’ toys you no longer use

A lighter shipment is a faster and more cost-effective one.

Step 6: Schedule Your Move Date Wisely

Timing your move can affect everything from freight costs to customs clearance.

In 2025, consider:

• Avoiding peak season (May–August) when costs are highest and availability is limited
• Shipping in Q1 or Q4 for better pricing
• Factoring in school terms if moving with children
• Avoiding major holidays (e.g., Lunar New Year, Golden Week) which can delay customs processing

Asian Tigers can help you select the optimal move window based on local logistics and destination timelines.

Step 7: Pack With Care—Or Let Us Do It

DIY packing might seem like a money-saver, but it’s risky during international moves. Improper packing is the leading cause of claims during transit.

Asian Tigers provides:

• Export-standard boxes and cartons
• Custom crating for fragile or odd-shaped items
• Wardrobe boxes for hanging garments
• Barcode inventory and labeling for each item

We also help you prepare an itemized packing list—essential for customs clearance and insurance coverage.

Step 8: Understand Valuation and Insurance Options

What happens if something gets damaged during the move? That’s where valuation protection comes in.

In 2025, international shipments can still face:

• Freight handling delays
• Port congestion
• Environmental risks (e.g., humidity, storms)

We recommend Full Replacement Value Protection (FRVP) over basic liability coverage. You’ll be reimbursed for repair, replacement, or cash value if damage or loss occurs during transit.

Ask your Asian Tigers move consultant to walk you through valuation forms and exclusions.

Step 9: Think About Pets, Cars, and Special Items

Certain items require extra care—and may face restrictions or special handling:

Pets

• Health certificates, vaccinations, and quarantine rules vary by country
• Asia-bound pet moves often require months of preparation
• Asian Tigers refers pet relocation to Silk Relo, our specialist partner

Vehicles

• Strict import rules in Japan, Australia, Singapore, and others
• Taxes and emissions testing may apply
• Inquire early—car shipping is subject to frequent regulation changes

Lithium Battery Items

• E-bikes, scooters, vapes, and certain electronics face restrictions
• Must often be packed separately or removed altogether

Tip: Ask about our “Moving Special Items” podcast episode featuring real stories from families moving musical instruments, fine art, and more.

Step 10: Prepare for Arrival

Once your shipment is in transit, you should be preparing for life in your new country.

Tasks to complete before arrival:

• Secure long-term or temporary housing
• Set up bank accounts, phone numbers, and internet
• Enroll children in school and attend orientation
• Notify local authorities if registration is required
• Get medical insurance or register with local providers

Your Asian Tigers destination partner will assist with delivery scheduling, unpacking services, and furniture placement if arranged.

Need more help settling in? Ask about relocation management services, including school search, home finding, and cultural orientation.

Bonus: Stay Flexible—But Informed

In 2025, we recommend approaching your international move with both a solid plan and some built-in flexibility. Challenges may arise from:

• Global shipping backlogs
• Visa or document delays
• Weather disruptions or port closures

Having a responsive relocation partner makes a world of difference. We monitor logistics conditions, local regulations, and even seasonal challenges to keep your move on track.

Final Thoughts: Plan Thoroughly, Move Confidently

An international relocation is more than just a change of address—it’s a total life transition. With the right planning, expert partners, and timeline, you can turn what feels overwhelming into a manageable, even exciting, process.

Let Asian Tigers Group support you every step of the way—from pre-move planning to delivery, from customs clearance to unpacking.