Moving abroad is one of the most exciting life changes you can make — but it can also feel overwhelming at first. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, retirement, or simply a new adventure, there’s a lot to consider. From sorting visas and paperwork to packing up your home and shipping your belongings, it can be hard to know where to begin.
At Purdie Worldwide, we’ve helped thousands of people make smooth international moves from the UK to destinations all over the world. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you plan your move abroad with confidence.
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2. Check Visa and Residency Requirements
4. Plan Your International Move
5. Decide What to Take (and What to Leave)
6. Moving Abroad with Children
8. Arrange Travel and Accommodation
9. Handle Admin Before You Leave
10. Settle Into Your New Life Abroad
1- Decide on Your Destination
Before you can start planning the logistics, decide exactly where you’re going. Think about:
- Lifestyle – What kind of environment suits you: city life, countryside, or coastal living?
- Language and culture – Will you need to learn a new language or adapt to local customs?
- Cost of living – Compare rent, groceries, healthcare, and taxes with what you pay in the UK.
- Work and visas – Research visa requirements and whether you’ll need a job offer before moving.
We’ve created a range of detailed international moving guides to help you explore your options:
- Moving to France
- Moving to Europe
- Moving to America
- Moving to Australia
- Moving to Canada
- Moving to The Netherlands
- Moving to Tenerife
Each guide covers everything from visa requirements and housing to local culture and practical moving advice.
2- Check Visa and Residency Requirements
Every country has its own visa rules, and it’s crucial to get this part right early on. Depending on your circumstances, you may need:
- A work visa
- A retirement visa
- A student visa
- Or a family/reunification visa
Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country for the most accurate information. The process can take months, so it’s best to start as soon as possible.
3- Sort Out Your Finances
Before you move, take time to get your finances in order:
- Notify your bank about your move and check whether they operate internationally.
- Open an international bank account or one in your destination country if possible.
- Budget for your move, including shipping costs, insurance, and temporary accommodation.
- Research tax obligations both in the UK and abroad — you may still need to complete a UK tax return after you move.
To make transferring funds easier, we recommend reading our guide on International Money Transfers Made Easy with Halo Financial
4- Plan Your International Move
This is where Purdie Worldwide can make things much easier. As one of Scotland’s leading international removals companies, we handle everything from packing and shipping to customs documentation.
Our international moving services include:
- Professional export packing and wrapping
- Sea and air freight options
- Customs paperwork assistance
- Door-to-door delivery worldwide
We’re also a proud member of the British Association of Removers (BAR), ensuring your belongings are in safe hands wherever you go.
5- Decide What to Take (and What to Leave)
International shipping costs depend largely on how much you take. Go through your belongings and decide:
- What to ship
- What to sell or donate
- What to store in the UK
Purdie Worldwide also offers secure storage facilities if you’re not ready to take everything with you straight away.
6- Moving Abroad with Children
If you’re planning to move abroad with your family, there are extra things to consider to make the transition as smooth as possible.
- Research schools early – Look into international or local schools that fit your child’s age and curriculum.
- Talk to your children about the move — involve them in decisions to help them feel included.
- Plan for healthcare – Ensure you understand how the healthcare system works in your destination.
- Keep routines consistent – Familiar items like toys, bedding, or even snacks can help children settle faster.
At Purdie Worldwide, we understand how important it is for families to feel comfortable and supported during an international move. Our experienced removals team ensures your household belongings — including children’s furniture and keepsakes — arrive safely, wherever your new home may be.
7- Moving Abroad with Pets
Your pets are part of the family too — and moving abroad with them requires careful planning. From vaccinations and travel crates to import permits, there’s a lot to think about.
We’ve covered everything you need to know in our in-depth guide:
👉 Moving Abroad with Pets: Everything You Need to Know
In summary:
- Check pet import rules for your destination (some countries require quarantine).
- Visit your vet for vaccinations, health certificates, and microchip checks.
- Book pet-friendly transport and ensure your pet is comfortable for the journey.
- Arrange paperwork in advance — pet relocation can take several weeks to organise.
Our team can coordinate with trusted pet transport specialists to make sure your furry friends travel safely and stress-free.
8- Arrange Travel and Accommodation
Book your flights once you have a confirmed moving date. If you don’t yet have permanent accommodation, look for temporary options like short-term rentals or serviced apartments to give yourself time to settle.
9- Handle Admin Before You Leave
Don’t forget to:
- Inform your GP, dentist, and utility providers
- Cancel or transfer subscriptions and memberships
- Register your move with HMRC and your local council
- Update your address with banks and insurance companies
- Make copies of all important documents (passports, visas, birth certificates)
10- Settle Into Your New Life Abroad
The first few weeks in a new country can be a big adjustment, but take things one step at a time. Explore your new surroundings, connect with local communities, and start building a routine.
And remember — the hard part’s behind you! You’ve made the leap and begun your next big adventure.
Start Your International Move with Purdie Worldwide
At Purdie Worldwide, we make moving abroad from the UK as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re heading to Europe, the USA, Australia, or anywhere else, our experienced international movers will guide you through every stage of the process.
From expert packing to customs support and global shipping, we’ll make sure your belongings arrive safely and on time.
📞 Ready to start planning your move abroad? Contact Purdie Worldwide today for a free international removals quote.
