Why Me?

Whether the transfer brings joy or tears, the thought of actually packing and moving can bring on neurosis, alcoholism and ingrown toenails.

Do not despair! Sit down somewhere quiet, have that drink and cut your toenails. Grab your diary, some paper and start to plan...

The kitchen sink?
6 weeks before:

Right, get tough! Do you want that wobbly desk chair to haunt you forever? Start clearing out --- have a garage sale, donate to friends or charity. Get rid of it!

Make a list of all your possessions. Do not forget the office, garage and garden. Estimate dates of purchases and replacement values (what it would cost to replace in the country you are going to). Use whatever currency is easiest, the bottom line can be converted if necessary. Bet you had no idea how much you really have! Leave space for last moment panic buying --- don't forget Aunt Lucy will be expecting something after all this time, and how can you really leave that lonely pastry cart sitting alone by itself in that dusty shop?

Keep this list safe. you can use it later for home insurance or tax purposes.

Remember airlines will not wait for "rubber time." If the carpenter says three weeks to knock down that four poster bed, then allow at least six weeks and start hassling him now.

Which company?
5 weeks before:

Make a list of the most reputable companies in town. Talk to friends and compare notes:

How long has the company been in business?
Do they have international agents and one at your destination?
What does their insurance policy cover?
Can they look after your pet?
Are their packers professional or will you meet the "coffee boy" packing your crystal?
What is their warehouse security like?
Will they seal your goods in liftvans at your house?

Call in companies to perform a survey – two or three is plenty. Line up all the buchshot questions you may have and fire them at your "Classic Movers" representative with both barrels – have no mercy. Make sure you understand the customs and immigration requirements. After your representative has staggered off into the distance, you and your family can carefully compare notes and make a decision.

What next?
4 weeks before:

Make a checklist and start working through it.

start using up consumables, frozen food, etc.
do any repairs necessary.
send out change of address cards.
transfer banking, insurance, and tax records.
collect dental, medical records and even if they protest, insist on your child's school records, too.
close any charge accounts or club memberships.
return those crummy eggcups you borrowed and get back that invaluable book on breeding emu's lent to "her-down-the-road."

It's getting close!
2 weeks before:

Chuck out the last list and make another.

arrange for the utilities to be disconnected.
prepare your documentation.
make any changes necessary to your inventory list.
go to that restaurant you always wanted to try and never quite got around to. Treat yourself, you deserve it!

Countdown!...

7 days:

drain mechanical equipment of any oil or fuel, and throw out all inflammables.

6 days:

remove wax from furniture. Combined with humidity, this may cause packing material to stick. Use kerosene and then wipe with a damp cloth.

5 days:

dismantle the children's playhouse and any other collapsible (no-not you) items.

4 days:

which clothes are going in the shipment?

3 days:

do the last batch of laundry.

2 days:

stop using appliances. Get them cleaned and make sure they are completely dry. (Coffee beans will stop the fridge from developing that old sock smell).

1 day:

double (and triple) check the final inventory list.

Invasion day...

Take everything out that's traveling with you – this includes jewelry, essential documents and receipts. Fragile objects will be packed first. Talk to the crew leader and he will keep you up-to-date with the progress. Your "Classic Movers" representative will be popping in to make sure everything is progressing well.

Finally, special crating may be required for certain high value or fragile items.