Downsizing for an International Move: What to Keep, Sell, or Store?

By Editor / February 17, 2025

Moving internationally means tough choices. You can’t take everything. Downsizing for an international move helps cut costs, avoid customs headaches, and simplify relocation. International shipping companies can help navigate these complexities by offering different options for transporting your belongings. Shipping fees depend on weight and size, so bringing less saves money. Customs fees vary by country, and many limit what you can import. Planning ahead makes the process smoother, especially when relocating to countries with strict import regulations.

What to Keep: Must-Have Items for an International Move

Some things must go with you, no matter where you’re moving. Downsizing for an international move can help prioritize what truly matters, making the relocation process more efficient. Important documents like passports, visas, birth certificates, and insurance papers are necessary. Keep them in a secure folder for easy access.

Electronics like laptops, chargers, and travel adapters are also essential. An unlocked phone is important to use local SIM cards. Clothing choices depend on the climate. Going to Iceland means warm layers, while moving to a country such as Portugal requires light, breathable fabrics.

Sentimental items, such as jewelry, family heirlooms, and small keepsakes, should also make the trip. If you’re relocating for work or school, bring necessary materials like certifications or work equipment. Moving to the UK from USA requires specific paperwork, so keeping all essential documents organized is a priority.

Travel Documents and Legal Requirements

Before an international move, it’s important to understand the necessary paperwork and regulations. Every country has different entry rules, and failing to comply can cause delays or even prevent relocation.

Ensure that passports are valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Research visa types based on your purpose—whether for work, study, or permanent residence. Some destinations require additional paperwork, including proof of finances or medical certificates. To avoid issues at customs and immigration, familiarize yourself with official international travel requirements by consulting reliable government sources.

What to Sell: Decluttering for a Lighter Move

Selling unnecessary items reduces stress and shipping costs. Downsizing for an international move allows you to minimize excess belongings, making relocation more manageable and cost-effective. Large furniture pieces don’t usually need to go since most rentals abroad come furnished. Appliances and electronics from the U.S. often don’t work due to different voltages and plug types.

Vehicles are expensive to ship and come with strict import rules. In most cases, selling your car before you leave is the smarter choice. Excess clothing and household items should also be sold locally to make packing easier.

Great places to sell include Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and eBay. Local garage sales are also a good way to get rid of things quickly before moving day. If you’re moving to Spain, it’s best to travel light and purchase essentials locally.

What to Store: Items to Keep Without Moving Abroad

• Seasonal or bulky items: Ski gear, holiday decorations, or sentimental keepsakes. These are items that you may not need right away, but you don’t want to get rid of them completely. Keeping them in storage allows you to access them later without cluttering your new home abroad.
• Family heirlooms and collectibles: If they’re valuable but not practical for daily use. Things like rare books, antiques, or inherited furniture may not be worth shipping internationally but should be kept safe for future use or passed down to family members.
• Important legal or tax documents: Keep them stored securely in case you need them in the future. Some documents might be necessary for tax filings, legal matters, or property ownership, so having a safe place to store them is important.
• Items with long-term personal or financial value: This could include investment documents, business records, or property deeds. These are things you may not need immediately but are essential for long-term planning.
• Use a trusted facility like our service storage international, for long-term storage solutions. These services can keep your items secure and climate-controlled, ensuring they remain in good condition while you’re abroad.

How to Ship Essential Household Goods

Understanding the costs and logistics of shipping is key. Air freight is the fastest but most expensive. Sea freight is cheaper but takes longer. Container shipping works well for large moves, but partial container space is an option for smaller loads.

Shipping household goods takes planning. Work with reliable shipping companies to compare rates and options. Use proper packing materials to prevent damage. Research customs regulations before sending anything overseas.

Choosing the Best Shipping Option

Selecting the right shipping method depends on your timeline, budget, and destination. Air freight is best for urgent shipments, though it comes at a higher price. Sea freight is the most affordable but takes longer, often several weeks. Container shipping is a great option for those with a large volume of belongings, as it offers flexibility with full or shared container space.

If you’re moving to Iceland, it’s important to research port availability and customs regulations to avoid delays. Each shipping method has its own benefits, so comparing costs and transit times is essential before making a decision.

Final Downsizing Checklist Before Moving

Before heading to another country, it’s essential to have a structured plan. A checklist will help keep everything on track and ensure nothing important gets overlooked. Here are the steps to follow:

✅ Sort everything into keep, sell, store, and donate categories. Be realistic about what you’ll actually use abroad.
✅ Research shipping regulations for countries because rules vary by location, so know what’s allowed and what’s restricted. If you’re moving to France, researching customs regulations early can help avoid complications.
✅ Get quotes from trusted international movers to compare options. Different companies offer different rates and services, so it’s worth checking several options.
✅ Organize essential travel documents and packing lists. If you’re moving to Portugal, check for any additional regulations regarding shipments to avoid last-minute issues.

✅ Confirm visa requirements and residency permits. Many countries have strict entry rules, so handling paperwork ahead of time saves trouble later.

Taking the time to prepare properly will make your international move much smoother and prevent any unwanted surprises when you arrive.

Make Your International Move Easier

Downsizing for an international move makes relocation cheaper and easier. Shipping less means lower costs and faster transit times. A good plan prevents last-minute stress. Reliable movers and storage options help with the process.

Start planning today. Get a free quote for your international move!