Frequently Asked Questions: U.S. Citizens Moving Abroad

Source: AARP.org | September 29, 2004

Where do I start?

What documents will I need?

How do I move my household overseas?

What can I expect to pay for an overseas move?

Are there restrictions or duties when bringing U.S. household goods overseas?

Should I insure my household goods prior to shipping?

Can I ship and drive my vehicle overseas?

Can I move my pets overseas?

Where can I find additional online resources?

Answers to Your Moving Abroad Questions

Q: Where do I start?
A: It is recommended that you plan not only a fact-finding trip, but also a house hunting expedition to your new country of residence. At this time you will want to decide where you want to live, and whether or not you will need a car. You must decide whether to buy or rent, and might want to check with the U.S. Embassy about any tips or recommendations they have. You can talk to other expatriates that live in the area to get some good advice. Under Resources, we have listed several web sites dedicated to real estate location overseas, so be sure to check there as well. .

Q: What documents will I need?
A: It is recommended that you carry the following documents on your person when immigrating to a new country: birth certificate, vaccinations record, passport, dental and medical records, an old utility bill proving site of residence in the U.S., and any other important papers that would be difficult to replace.

In addition, you will want to have a valid U.S. driver's license, and information on how to renew it. Once your U.S. license expires, it becomes a challenge to reapply for a new one, but most states allow renewal by mail as long as you can prove you are living overseas.

You may need an international driver's license; check with AAA. You will need a U.S. passport, and if you don't have one plan on two to three months to obtain one. Information on this can be found at the post office, federal courthouse, or AAA offices. Contact the consulate of the destination country to find out if any additional documents are required.

Q: How do I move my household overseas?
A: There are many moving companies that specialize in relocating U.S. citizens overseas for business and private reasons. Several web sites contain useful information on finding and getting more information on international moving companies. Expect the average shipment of household effects to take four to six weeks by sea, a little longer for the Far East. Of course you can also ship by air. It is more expensive but might be an option if you have few items and it is much faster, on average five days. In either case, you will need a complete inventory of your items for estimates and insurance purposes. For more information on cost and insurance, read on.

Q: What can I expect to pay for an overseas move?
A: Most moving companies will base the cost on volume and weight of your shipment. Other factors that will play a role are: labor costs of packing, materials, loading, and shipping at point of origin, clearing of customs at destination, and the final delivery. Most companies can give an estimate by looking at a complete inventory for smaller jobs, or will perform a free on-site evaluation for larger jobs. A good rule of thumb is to estimate 1000 pounds per room of furniture. Your items will be packed in boxes or wrapped, then crated and loaded on a container for shipment. Expect to prepay costs for overseas shipment; you will receive refund or be billed for the difference after the job is completed.

Q: Are there restrictions or duties when bringing U.S. household goods overseas?
A: Many countries let your household effects enter with no duty or taxes as long as you can prove these items are not new and are for personal use. Of course, the embassy or consulate of your new home country will give you specific information. Be aware that everything you import to a foreign country is subject to search and inspection, so it is vital to follow all rules as fines can be astronomical.

Q: Should I insure my household goods prior to shipping?
A: This is a definite yes, and most shipping companies will offer a policy to you. It is recommended that you insure your goods based on the replacement value in the country of destination. In all cases, you will need an inventory and value of your items. In addition, you will want to check with your insurance agent about the any existing household goods insurance policies you may currently hold and how an overseas move affects those policies. Some companies will offer a "floater" on an existing policy covering the overseas move. Be sure that you fully understand the procedure and time limits for filing claims after the move, usually 30 days. It is recommended and preferred by most companies that you hand carry valuable jewelry.

Q: Can I ship and drive my vehicle overseas?
A: Most countries have no problems with shipment of a vehicle from the U.S., but as always it is best to get the facts as you plan your move. Some movers will also ship cars and most will have information on how to proceed. Expect to need three notarized copies of the vehicle's title, the year, make and model, color, and VIN number. Check on the in-country auto insurance requirements, some countries insist on local coverage, and there's no need to have U.S. insurance in that case. However, if you have the option of carrying your insurance with a U.S. company it will most likely be cheaper.

Q: Can I move my pets overseas?
A: You should definitely check with the U.S. consulate or embassy of your new country of residence to obtain rules and regulations on importing pets. Be aware of countries with quarantines such as the United Kingdom. If you are considering an eventual return to the U.S.A., you will also want to check with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, for regulations regarding reentry of pets to the U.S. Generally pets must be at least 10 weeks old and have all their shots and medical records to move. Each pet will require its own carrier.

Q: Where can I find additional online resources?
A: You may find helpful infomation at some of the following websites:

• American Citizens Abroad - http://www.aca.ch/
• Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) - http://www.aaro.org
• Expatriate Resources & Resources for Global Relocation - http://www.escapeartist.com/expatriate7/expatriate7.htm
• FirstGov.gov - Americans Living and Traveling Abroad - http://www.firstgov.gov/Topics/Americans_Abroad.shtml
• Guide to Living Abroad - http://www.livingabroad.com
• U.S. Department of State - Tips for Americans Residing Abroad - travel.state.gov/travel/livingabroad_residing.html