Essential steps to stay on track during busy summer relocations – locally or internationally
Between June and August, the demand for moving services peaks for relocations, locally or to another country. If you are planning to relocate during this period, preparation is vital. Our week-by-week checklist outlines the essential steps to stay organised and stress-free with specific tips for both local and international moves.
At GAC International Moving, we look forward to supporting your relocation. Whether its a straightforward household move, relocating your most valuable painting, transferring to a new office location or taking care of moving your beloved pet, we make this so easy for you, that you’ll feel relaxed on what is otherwise considered to be a very stressful day.
8 weeks out: Start early
- For all moves:
- Book your preferred move date. Summer slots fill quickly, especially for international moves.
- Create a folder (digital or physical) to store quotes, receipts and important documents.
- Notify your employer and begin school withdrawal or enrolment processes, if relevant.
- For international moves:
- Research schools at your destination. International admissions can be competitive.
- Check visa and residency requirements. Start gathering key documents like passports, visa copies and proof of address.
6 weeks out: Declutter and prepare
- For all moves:
- Sort belongings by room – decide what to keep, sell, donate or discard.
- Start using up perishable food, frozen items and cleaning products.
- For international moves:
- Confirm customs paperwork with your moving company. Common requirements include a copy of your passport, visa approval and inventory list.
- Ask for the latest list of restricted or prohibited items at your destination.
4 weeks out: Confirm details
- For all moves:
- Finalise your moving services: confirm packing support, transport arrangements and insurance.
- Notify utility companies, telecom / internet providers, banks and insurers of your move. Schedule service disconnection or transfers.
- Organise key documents such as ID, medical records, school certificates and financial statements.
- Set up mail forwarding with your postal provider.
- For international moves:
- Arrange closure or transfer of local accounts. For example, if you reside in the UAE, you can use online move-out services:
2 weeks out: Identify and prepare items for packing
- For all moves:
- Request empty moving boxes from your moving company if you plan to pack any items yourself.
- Start identifying non-essential items such as books, décor, seasonal clothing and spare kitchenware that can be packed early.
- Set aside fragile or high-value items and make a note for your move coordinator to ensure proper handling.
- Arrange care for children, pets or elderly family members on moving day.
- For international moves:
- Confirm packaging and labelling standards for international shipments with your moving provider.
- Identify and safely dispose of restricted items such as flammable liquids, paint, aerosols and certain cleaning chemicals.
1 week out: Final preparation
- For all moves:
- Pack a personal essentials bag with toiletries, chargers, clothes, snacks, key documents and medications.
- Confirm your moving day schedule with the coordinator: timing, access permits, parking and any special requirements.
- Clean your home or arrange a professional cleaning service, especially if you're handing it over or reclaiming a deposit.
Moving day: Be present and prepared
- For all moves:
- Be present when the movers arrive. Walk them through your home and point out fragile or high-value items.
- Keep essential items and important documents with you, especially important for international travel or if shipments are delayed.
- Do a final sweep of all rooms, cupboards and storage areas. Turn off utilities and hand over keys as required.
Moving during peak season isn’t easy, but with the right planning and a trusted partner by your side, it can be a lot less stressful. Whether you’re heading across town or across continents, GAC International Moving is here to make your move safe, straightforward and as smooth as possible.
Ready to get started?
Contact our team today for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote.
