International temporary assignment: What to take with you and what to put into storage
Your scenario might look a bit like this: your company has placed you on a temporary assignment overseas, provided you with a lump sum and told you to find a mover to transport your possessions.
As an international mover, Suddath moves thousands of transferees every year and we understand the stress of planning an international move. One of the first decisions is deciding what goes with you and what is put into storage. Depending on where you are being moved and the length of time, you may have to make some tough decisions.
Now, the hard part: what do you take and what do you leave behind? The following questions will help you determine your storage needs.
- Is your new home smaller than your current home? Will it be apartment living? Are there stairs and/or elevators required to access your new home?
- Will you have a transition period; such as staying somewhere temporarily, before you move into your new home?
- Will your new home be furnished?
- What is the length of your assignment?
- Has your company set a weight allowance for your move?
There are a variety of storage options depending on your needs; however, the most common for temporary assignments are:
- Short-term storage - ideal for assignments that may last six months or less wherein you will not need furnishings
- Storage in transit - ideal for transitional periods less than one month
- Permanent storage - ideal for long-term assignments, one or more years
Whichever storage option works best for you, it is imperative to ask for international-style packing and wrapping. This ensures that should your plans change, your items can easily be loaded into a container and shipped to your overseas destination.
It is strongly recommended that you store the following items unless they are essential in your new destination:
- Large TVs
- Appliances
- Cars
- Pianos
- Large, bulky furniture
Remember, Suddath owns more than 2.5 million square feet of secure, climate-controlled warehouse space. Flexibility is essential when you are on temporary assignment, and Suddath is there to help you every step of the way.
