A person holding a passport in their hand. In the background, a map of the world is visible.
Moving Self Storage

4 Ways to Prepare For Your Move Abroad

Moving out of the country for a few months to a year? Learn how to prepare and stay organized for your international move.

A person holding a passport in their hand. In the background, a map of the world is visible.

Moving is already exciting enough when you’re going to the next state over, but moving abroad is a whole other level! Whether it’s for school, a military deployment or relocation, or a need to mix-up the status quo and change your surroundings, there are a lot of preparations to make for your upcoming long-distance travels. Let Prime Storage provide you with storage solutions and advice on how to make the process go smoothly.

Secure your work visa early (if you need it).

Not everyone moving abroad will want or need to obtain a work visa, but to those who do, it’s of vital importance that you plan ahead on this matter. You’re less likely to need this as a student, but if you want to change countries, you’ll need to correspond with a prospective employer to apply for a work visa.

There are a lot of details that go into this process, so depending on your income level, household occupancy, job-type, and intended destination, the minutia is subject to change. It is, however, something you should always plan to have in advance. In addition, almost all work visas have some type of deadline, so you should plan accordingly. Don’t expect to stay in your destination country indefinitely. 

Find a place to store your car.

Depending on how long you intend to be gone, you may want to consider long-term storage for your vehicle. If you’re permanently emigrating to another country, you’ll probably sell your vehicle. For temporary relocation, however, you’ll want to find a space to semi-permanently park your car.

This is useful because it means that when you return to the States, you’ll have a vehicle available without needing to rent one for the duration of your stay. If you’re leaving for a long period, consider covered vehicle storage that can provide protection from the elements, so that no matter how long you go in-between visits, your car will be in great shape.

Study the culture of your destination country.

The last thing you want is to be blindsided by culture shock. At best, you’ll be lost or confused, and at worst, you could risk upsetting your new neighbors. No matter where you’re going, they’re likely to have at least a handful of major, qualifying differences you should know upon arrival, with the rest of their cultural nuances that will become known with time.

Whatever happens, don’t panic if you don’t immediately feel settled. There will be an adjustment period where it’ll feel like you’re flailing a bit, and you may even have an opportunity to learn a new language in order to properly engage in certain activities, so expect that to take time. Most importantly, be open-minded. If you haven’t traveled much, this could be a life-changing experience, as long as you stay aware that you are the stranger in their land, not the other way around.

Rent a self storage unit to simplify your move.

Whether you’re a military family spending a few years abroad, or are moving for an exciting new career opportunity, moving to another country is a unique experience. If you find yourself worried about packing or storing your belongings when you move abroad, we can help!

Prime Storage offers convenient, affordable self storage solutions that can accommodate a variety of needs. With over 200 locations nationwide, chances are there’s a Prime Storage not too far from home. To get started on your storage journey, visit a facility near you or rent your storage unit online.

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