The experts at First Move International are asked almost daily if shipping personal items overseas are worth the effort and the cost. They shared some of the pros and cons of shipping your stuff overseas.
The Pros
Comfort
If you speak to people who have emigrated, almost all of them will tell you that the day they receive their container of goods is one of the best days they experience.
Moving overseas is hard enough as it is, and so there is comfort to be found in having some familiar items when you relocate. For children, this is especially important, as they often liken comfort with familiarity.
Cost
Shipping your items over to your new home may cost, but it will save you money in the long run, as you don’t need to purchase new goods when you arrive in your new town.
Convenience
It is likely that you will rent furnished accommodation when you first arrive, so it is very convenient, once you move into your own space, to have the essential items you’ll need to feel more at home.
You may also not be au fait with local shops and prices and having your own items already there will alleviate the pressure of having to price-hunt for the best deals.
The Cons
Electronics
It is difficult to tell which electronic items will work and be able to be serviced. Certain electronic items are affordable and probably best bought in your new home country. These items also take up room in your container, and if they’re not guaranteed to work, rather save that space for more precious items.
Expensive
Depending on your moving company, it can be costly to move your goods. It will take some diligence and work to get rid of any unnecessary items so that you take only the absolute essentials. The smaller your container, the less it will cost you.
Excess
You don’t want to ship your personal belongings overseas just to find that they don’t fit into your new home, or that you have carted over too much stuff. Be wise about what you select to come with you, and ruthless with your paring down.
