Moving internationally involves more than shipping boxes. A range of complementary services can make the transition significantly smoother — and many people don't think to ask about them until they're already overwhelmed.
If you're moving abroad and need to transfer significant funds for a rental deposit, property purchase, or just to fund your life while you get settled, your regular bank is probably not your best option. Banks typically charge higher fees and offer less favorable exchange rates than specialist FX services. Companies like Wise (TransferWise), OFX, and Currencies Direct specialize in international transfers and can save hundreds to thousands of dollars on larger transfers. Compare rates before you need the money — not when you're under pressure to close.
Many relocation companies and some international movers offer home-finding services at the destination, either through their own destination services team or through a partner network. Services typically include: identifying neighborhoods that match your criteria, arranging viewings during a short visit (or virtually), assistance with lease review and negotiation, and connecting you with local real estate agents. If your employer is funding the move, this may already be included in your relocation package — ask before paying for it separately.
For families with school-age children, finding the right school at destination — particularly in a different language and education system — is one of the most stressful parts of any international move. Destination service providers can assist with identifying international schools, local schools with strong expat communities, bilingual programs, and specialty programs. Many international schools have waitlists measured in years for popular destinations; start this process as early as possible, ideally before you even accept the assignment.
Pre-move language training — even a few months of weekly lessons — dramatically improves your first year in a new country. Some corporate relocation packages include language training; if yours doesn't, services like iTalki, local language schools, or the Goethe-Institut (for German) offer flexible options at various price points.
If you're shipping a car, motorcycle, or other vehicle separately from your household goods (or with a different company), coordinate timing carefully with your arrival date. Vehicles often have separate customs clearance processes and may require modifications to meet local road regulations. Confirm destination vehicle import requirements in advance — some countries levy significant import duties, and US-spec vehicles may require expensive modifications to pass local roadworthiness inspections.
Destination service providers can assist with practical tasks after you arrive: opening a local bank account, navigating the local administrative registration process, setting up utilities, finding healthcare providers, and general orientation to your new city. For people arriving in a country where they don't speak the language, having local support for the first 30–60 days can prevent enormous amounts of wasted time and stress.
If you take prescription medications, research your destination country's rules on medication import before you leave. Some medications available over-the-counter in the US require a prescription abroad, and vice versa. Some controlled substances (certain painkillers, ADHD medications, anxiety medications) have strict import limits or are banned in certain countries. Bring a letter from your doctor, copies of your prescriptions, and medications in their original labeled bottles. Never pack medications in your shipped container — carry them with you on the plane.
School enrollment, home-finding, language training, and administrative registration at destination all take longer than most people expect. The earlier you start each of these processes, the better your options will be. A good rule of thumb: begin researching destination services at the same time you start getting moving quotes — not after you've booked your flight.
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