Moving abroad comes with a lot of excitement, and just as many questions. From packing up your home to understanding customs paperwork, it can quickly feel overwhelming.
That’s where MOVEFORCE comes in. As specialists in relocating to Portugal and storage services, we help make the process simpler and less stressful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to move your stuff internationally, from smart planning and packing to choosing the right moving company and navigating import regulations.
Whether you’re relocating to Portugal or heading overseas, we’ve got the insights to help you move with confidence.
Planning Your International Move: What to Know First
Before booking anything, lay some groundwork:
1. Define Your Timeline & Budget
Create a realistic moving window. International moves often require 8–12 weeks of lead time, especially if you’re shipping by sea or land.
At the same time, keep track of all costs—freight, insurance, storage, customs duties, as well as smaller fees, such as packing and scanning—to avoid last-minute surprises.
2. Inventory Your Belongings
A detailed international moving checklist helps ensure that nothing is forgotten at customs. Use photos, weights, and values, especially for valuable items.
3. Understand Legal Requirements
Beyond tax perks, it’s essential to research import restrictions in your destination country. Some nations prohibit or tax household goods older than a year.
Early awareness of customs regulations for international moving can prevent headaches later.
Choosing the Right International Moving Company
Selecting the best international moving companies takes a bit of homework:
1. Check Credentials
Look for IAM (International Association of Movers), FIDI-accredited, or similar. Certifications mean vetted standards.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Share your inventory list and origin/destination details. Quotes should include packing, transportation, customs handling, insurance, duties, and storage if applicable.
3. Read Reviews & Ask Around
Ask expats or colleagues for recommendations. Reliable movers offer transparency, effective communication, and personalized insights tailored to your relocation needs.
4. Service Scope Matters
A full-service provider like MOVEFORCE offers end-to-end solutions, including consulting, packing, customs clearance, delivery, and storage services.
5. Compare Add-ons
Do they offer furniture disassembly/reassembly? Temporary storage? Customs liaison services? All that adds convenience.
Packing Tips and What to Bring (and Not)
Packing smart equals peace of mind and savings. These international moving tips will help you do both:
1. Bring Essentials Only
High-value or sentimental items you’ll need on arrival? Ship them with care. Low-cost or easily replaced items? Buy them later.
2. Categorize Items
Label boxes as “Kitchen—Fragile” or “Books—Heavy.” It’s useful for customs and unpacking.
3. Protect Fragile Goods
Use quality bubble wrap or corrugated inserts. Reinforced double-wall boxes can absorb the bumps of international transit.
4. Disposal & Donation
Before packing, discard or donate duplicates, damaged goods, and sensitive materials (e.g., flammables, aerosols).
5. Check Prohibited Items
Many countries prohibit the import of fresh food, plants, or certain electronics. Your international moving checklist should include a section for restricted items to avoid customs holdups.
Customs Regulations and Import Rules
Import rules vary widely, so your move will largely depend on the customs laws in your destination country.
Overview of Portugal’s Tax System for Residents
1. Understand Import Duties & Tax Exemptions
Some countries impose duties based on the type of item, its age, or its value. Portugal, for example, may assess VAT on shipments over a threshold.
2. Prepare Your Paperwork
Typically, you’ll need:
- An inventory list (weight, age, value, serial number);
- A copy of your passport;
- Proof of residence abroad.
A reputable international relocation services provider, such as MOVEFORCE, helps assemble these.
3. Claim Your Tax Relief
Many countries waive duties on goods you’ve owned and used for 6–12 months. Declare usage dates clearly.
4. Plan for Cleared Items
5. Be Aware of Temporary vs Permanent Moves
Temporary shipments (like work assignments) may use carnet ATA documents or temporary import licenses—sort this out early.
With MOVEFORCE overseeing customs clearance, your move to Portugal flows more smoothly, especially when specialized permits are required.
Insurance, Storage, and Delivery Logistics
Wrap up your move thoughtfully:
1. Insurance
Choose the right coverage—basic freight-only or full “valued coverage.” Confirm whether transit storage counts as “in-transit”.
2. Short-Term Storage Solutions
If your new home isn’t ready, consider storage services. MOVEFORCE offers secure interim storage in Portugal, along with packing and delivery.
3. Door-to-Door vs. Port-to-Port
Door-to-door is the most convenient—you’ll receive your belongings at your final address, ready to unpack.
Port-to-port is cheaper, but requires you to handle customs clearance and pickup logistics. If you choose this route, MOVEFORCE is here to guide and assist every step of the way.
4. Final Delivery Planning
Connect with your movers ahead of arrival to set dates. Portugal’s narrow streets or interior apartments may need special equipment or permits, so be prepared.
5. Unpacking & Disposal
Some movers unpack, reassemble, and remove packaging—contact us to check whether this is included or available à la carte.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to a different country is a significant step in life, but with the right plan and partner, it can be an exciting and stress-free experience.
Now that you know how to move your stuff internationally, the process becomes much more manageable, from packing and paperwork to delivery and settling in.
If Portugal is your destination, MOVEFORCE is ready to guide you every step of the way with reliable services and storage solutions.
Get in touch today for a personalized quote, and let your new chapter begin with confidence.
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