The following guide explores the changes you’ll face as an expatriate, and what you need to do to prepare yourself for a move to another country.
Moving is generally exciting, but moving to another country often comes with a lot of mixed emotions. There are new people to meet, and a language to master (unless you’re moving someplace predominately English-speaking, such as England). You’ll have to get used to using a different currency, eating new food, and additional on-the-job changes.
In terms of your career, your new country may offer you additional business success, and markets that are ready for the products and competitive service you’re offering.
Preparing to Move to another Country
Think of living somewhere else as a social adventure. Moving forces you to adapt to new social ways of living and leisure. You’ll need to mentally prepare for your move, as well as physically move your belongings.
For example, if you’re moving to a country where there are lovely beaches, such as Spain, you may be treated to more nudity than you’re used to. Topless and nude sunbathing are quite common in Spain. In fact, it’s common all over Europe, but is something rarely practiced in the United States. It’s important to research the culture of your new home, so you’re not left culture-shocked upon arrival. You’ll help combat loneliness if you know what to expect before arriving.
Unfortunately, moving is one of those things that can drive people temporarily crazy. Preparation is going to help you reduce the stress of moving, and is therefore critical to your voyage.
- Know where you’re going to live; if possible book a trip prior to moving, and investigate your living arrangements to ensure they meet your standards
- Budget your travel accordingly, and leave room in your budget for transporting your belongings
- Research travel regulations
- Research local laws
- Determine how you’ll transport your belongings, including office equipment, business supplies, documents, etc.
Transporting Your Career
Your personal belongings can be shipped using a reputable moving company, but your office equipment and important documents cannot. These require more stability during travel, and the abilities of a logistics and supply chain management capable mover. It’s important that transportation services “manage a diverse portfolio of both domestic and international transportation solutions,” according to the United Van Lines logistics page.
It’s important to plan what you’re going to pack for yourself, and what’s necessary to bring for your career. There are a lot of laws governing what can be shipped from one country to another, which is why it’s a good idea to hire a company. You’ll only have to worry about the expense, and your movers will worry about everything else.
Enterprise in a New Location
New opportunities are almost guaranteed when moving to a new place. You may find just the right market place for your goods or services. There are many other benefits of moving, such as new marketing opportunities, access to cheaper labor, and new foreign investment policies.
Overall, it won’t be easy leaving the United States for a culture yet unknown, but it should be enjoyable. If you’re prepared, you should do well in your new home.