Moving overseas is a daunting task, filled with stress and uncertainty. From the financial considerations to the emotional upheaval of leaving your home, it can be overwhelming to navigate the process alone. That’s why at Elliott, we’re dedicated to helping make your transition as smooth as possible.

Every successful move starts with proper planning, and one of the most important steps in that process is deciding what to take and what to leave behind. To get you started, we’ve put together a list of key considerations to keep in mind as you take inventory of your belongings.

Moving overseas starts with a pre-move survey

No two international moves are the same. Elliott’s highly experienced team will therefore perform a pre-move survey of your household and specify the cost of everything from customs clearance, freighting and delivery, to insurance and unpacking your consignment at your new home. It is essential that you are prepared for the survey and clear on which items will and will not be moved.

What you should leave behind

If you have items that have monetary or sentimental value, you will want to take them all with you. However, being practical about the limitations of your destination will help you decide what to leave behind.

• Although an item is expensive, it might still be cheaper to sell it and replace it abroad than ship it. Consider that you may also want to insure that item against possible damage, which adds to the cost of shipping.
• If an item has sentimental value and you do not want to take it due to space limitations at your new home, ask Elliott about storage options. It may be cheaper to store the item in South Africa and have it shipped later than to store it overseas.
• If you have not used a kitchen appliance for more than a year, you will likely never use it. Think about lightening your load by leaving items that are collecting dust.
• Some countries have different power standards than South Africa. Consider whether a simple power adapter will be suitable to safely operate your appliances overseas. If this is not the case, selling the item and replacing it abroad is the better option.
• Some clothing may be unsuitable for the weather in your new country. Unless you have ample cupboard space at your new home, leave clothes you will never wear and remember that your shipment may arrive later than you do. The clothes you take should be clothes you will wear at some point during the following year or two.
• If you are moving into a furnished rental, think about long-term storage fees. It may be cheaper to sell less valuable furniture and replace it when you move into a permanent home.
• Your new country may prohibit the import of certain items such as refrigerators that contain CFC, HFC or HCFC gases, weapons and ammunition, fur, cultural heritage goods, glazed ceramic ware, electronics, alcohol, toys, and a host of other collector and general consumer products. Consider selling, donating, or auctioning these items at home if you do not plan to store them in South Africa long term.  
• Hobby consumables including paints and thinners, compressed products (spray tins), disposable liquids, and cleaners cannot be transported internationally. Discard unused consumables from your art studio, garage, and workshop according to the supplier’s recommendations. We advise discarding potentially hazardous products before the packers arrive to avoid spills contaminating your goods.

Do you know the difference between a prohibited and a restricted item? If an item is listed as prohibited, it means that it cannot be imported or exported to a country. A restricted item can be imported or exported if it meets specific conditions.

What to take with you

Furniture

Chic and custom home décor, furniture, and homeware should make the trip with you if they can be moved. Timber, wood, bamboo, wicker, wool, and other natural materials may be imported to certain countries if they are declared and meet specific import conditions. Most rugs, curtains, and fabrics can be shipped without hassle.

Art and collectables

Artworks and collectables should be safely moved to their new location. Prioritise moving items that have investment and personal value.

Clothing and personal items

Most personal items such as clothing, jewellery, and accessories can be safely and securely moved internationally. Depending on their value, Elliott will advise you on storage and shipping practices for these items.

Kitchenware

Most kitchenware, cookware, and bakeware can be transported overseas. Elliott’s skilled packing team will ensure that glassware, antiques, vases, and other items are professionally handled.

Moving miscellaneous items overseas

Items such as outdoor activity toys (swings, nets, hoops and so on), can be transported. However, make sure that they are clean (free from soil, moisture, twigs, and leaves).

If you are unsure about whether an item can be shipped or not, show the item to Elliott when they perform the pre-move survey.