“The last time I moved to Africa – we were in Cote D’Ivoire for twenty-eight months – our moving company just had no clue at all. Our possessions came into the country on a Friday afternoon before a week-long carnival. That meant there was no way to get our stuff. We were forced to get by with only what we’d brought in our suitcases for nine days. With two kids under six you can imagine how fun that was!” Leena shook her head. “This time, we’re making sure that we work with a moving company that truly understands international moves.”
Moving out of the country is a complicated process. Every country is unique, and knowing how and where to ship household goods into the country requires understanding the necessary paperwork, customs and import process, and the cultural nuances of the community you’re going into. Timing can be very important: you don’t want to experience what Leena went through, and have your items arrive during a festival that shuts the entire country down, nor find yourself worrying about what happens to cargo containers during monsoon season. While it’s not always possible to avoid delays and disturbances to your timeline, an experienced international moving company will be aware of circumstances that will put your timeline in jeopardy.
Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to have someone in-country keeping you appraised of conditions on the ground as you prepare for your international move. We’re living in some very turbulent times, with uprest and attempted coups filling the headlines. Being prepared can make all the difference, as can choosing the right international moving company.