If you ever get the chance to move abroad, it could potentially be one of the most exciting, yet terrifying experiences of your life. There is so much that goes into moving overseas, that it can often times get overwhelming. Plus, once you count in the fact of how expensive it can get, it’s easy to start freaking out a little. However, there really is no reason too. With the proper planning, and a thought out budget, you can make even the most overwhelming move a breeze. And in this article, we will give you some tips on how to properly plan, so the only surprises you will have are the ones your friends will be throwing for you before you leave.

The first thing that you want to do in planning, especially when planning your budget, is to make a spreadsheet. You know that little program on your computer called Excel? Well, it’s time to get acquainted with it if you haven’t already. One of the best ways to create a budget and to stick with it is to provide yourself with a clear picture of the different expenses that you will incur. Go ahead and create a chart within Excel, and add any and all of the categories that you know will incur expenses along the way. Then, start filling in the actual cost amounts as you become aware of them. This process will help you clearly define how much you’ll actually have to spend to make your move, and therefore will be able to help you better budget and plan accordingly.

One important expense that you want to be aware of is a moving company expense. Often times, this will be your greatest expense so it’s important to make sure that you take your time and find a reputable moving company that will be the perfect fit for you. Be aware though, that there are several different moving companies out there that will try to take advantage of you. Avoid any companies that refuse to give you a solid price. If there are unwilling to give you a solid moving quote or price, it’s often times because there will be hidden fees or expenses that will accumulate along the way. So, make sure that before you sign a contract with the moving company you have the exact price of what they will charge in black-and-white.

Also, there are a few other moving expenses that you’ll need to be aware of when it comes to your moving company. For instance, you will have your moving company fee, but you also will want to purchase extra moving insurance to help cover the cost of your items if they are damaged or lost during shipment. This may not seem important now, but we promise you if anything were to happen you’d wish you had it. You also have to budget for tips to give to the movers on both ends of the move. Plus, don’t forget that you’ll need to purchase shipping supplies that will hold all of your items. Your best option is to find cheap moving boxes, if you can. Cheap moving boxes can be found almost anywhere, but make sure that you check with your shipping company in case they have any restrictions on the type of cheap moving boxes that you can use. Also, you may need to budget for storage unit in the country of origin for the things you may have to leave behind.

Other expenses that you may incur along the way will be your travel costs. This will include your flights, transportation to and from the airport, potential hotels if your new home isn’t ready, food along the way, travel documents that you may need to update, customs fees that you may have to pay upon arrival to your new country, and even vaccines that you may need to enter into the country are moving to. Just make sure that you are aware of all of the different types of rules and regulations that your new country will require of you, before even going.

Moving internationally doesn’t have to be stressful. Just make sure that you take your time, plan, be prepared, and expect the unexpected. If you can do these things, you will be able to help make your moving process a breeze. Good luck!