Top 10 Mistakes People Make When Planning an International Move (And How to Avoid Them)
Posted on July 1, 2025
Planning an international move can be one of the most exciting—but also one of the most stressful—experiences in life. At ClickMoves, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals and families relocate around the globe, and we’ve seen it all. From last-minute packing panic to visa mishaps, small oversights can lead to big headaches.
To help you avoid common pitfalls, we’ve compiled the top 10 mistakes people make when planning an international move—and how you can avoid them.
1. Leaving Everything to the Last Minute
The Mistake: Waiting too long to start planning, gathering documents, or booking a moving company.
How to Avoid It: Start preparing at least 3–6 months before your move date. This gives you time to compare international movers, gather paperwork, and create a stress-free timeline.
2. Not Researching Customs Regulations
The Mistake: Assuming you can ship anything overseas without restrictions.
How to Avoid It: Each country has its own list of prohibited and restricted items. Work with a reputable international moving company (like ClickMoves!) that will help you navigate customs regulations and avoid surprise delays or fines.
3. Choosing the Wrong Moving Company
The Mistake: Going for the cheapest quote without checking reviews, accreditations, or service levels.
Check out ClickMoves review here
The Mistake: Going for the cheapest quote without checking reviews, accreditations, or service levels.
How to Avoid It: Look for IAM accredited movers, read client testimonials, and make sure the company offers full door-to-door international relocation services—not just shipping.
4. Underestimating Costs
The Mistake: Forgetting to factor in insurance, storage, customs fees, and local delivery charges.
How to Avoid It: Ask for a fully itemized quote and make sure you understand what’s included. At ClickMoves, our pricing is transparent, with no hidden costs.
5. Overpacking or Bringing the Wrong Items
The Mistake: Shipping bulky or unnecessary items that won’t be used in your new home (or aren’t compatible with local power standards, etc.)
How to Avoid It: Be selective. Create an inventory list and consider storage or donation for things you don’t need immediately. Remember: less is often more when moving internationally.
6. Not Getting the Right Insurance
The Mistake: Relying on basic coverage (or none at all) for high-value items.
How to Avoid It: Opt for comprehensive international moving insurance that covers damage, loss, and transit delays. We can guide you through coverage options suited to your shipment.
7. Ignoring Visa and Residency Requirements
The Mistake: Assuming your passport alone is enough for entry, work, or long-term residence.
How to Avoid It: Always check visa, work permit, and residency requirements for your destination country—beforeyou book your move. Consider consulting with a relocation advisor or immigration expert.
8. Not Planning for Pets
The Mistake: Overlooking paperwork, quarantine rules, or pet transport logistics.
How to Avoid It: Research pet travel rules early. At ClickMoves, we can assist with pet relocation services to ensure a safe and smooth move for your furry friend.
9. Overlooking School and Housing Arrangements
The Mistake: Moving without securing a home or school placement first.
How to Avoid It: Plan your accommodation and education options before you arrive, especially if moving with children. International schools often have waiting lists, and housing in some cities can be competitive.
10. Failing to Notify the Right People
The Mistake: Forgetting to inform banks, tax agencies, healthcare providers, and postal services of your move.
How to Avoid It: Use a change-of-address checklist. Redirect your mail, cancel subscriptions, and update important services to avoid disruptions abroad.
Final Thoughts
International moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning and a trusted partner by your side, the process can be smooth and even enjoyable.
At ClickMoves, we specialise in international relocations for individuals, families, and professionals worldwide. From packing and shipping to customs clearance and delivery, we’re here to help every step of the way.
👉 Ready to start your move? Get a free quote today.