Perhaps you have a new job opportunity or you are ready to retire. As you consider making an international move at this exciting time in your life, you also realize that you are about to face some major changes. Realistically making note of the best way to get things done and learning from the experience of others can help make your move less stressful.

Regardless of your reason for moving, you will never regret doing things the right way. It may only take you a day or two to get to your new country, but it will truly take weeks or months of ocean shipping for your belongings to get there. Can a person make mistakes when moving internationally, wishing they had done things differently? Absolutely. There are so many things to consider, that regardless of how well you do, you are going to have a regret or two. Avoiding extra time, money and stress are the most important factors to consider.

1) One major mistake that people make when moving overseas is to think of it as an escape. Making an international move is much different than taking a vacation overseas. Regardless of where one lives, there are going to be stresses, disappointments and problems. As a matter of fact, moving in itself can be quite stressful, perhaps causing you to periodically wonder if you should move at all.

2) Don't be unrealistic about what you are doing. You are going to have to continue working, paying bills and dealing with relationships, no matter where you live. It's important to have a positive mindset and yet know that the move will be stressful at times and also know that day-to-day living will commence. All of your problems are not going to miraculously disappear by making an international move. In fact, it's best to resolve as many issues as possible before moving and therefore, feel like you can move on with your life rather than escaping from current problems.

3) Don't expect things to be the same in your new country, but plan on lots of change. Don't ever forget that you are now the foreigner, the visitor, the stranger in this new country. Just assume that you are going to be misunderstood and make some mistakes. For example, if you are moving to England, you will find that they live by an entirely different set of rules and regulations. Rather than argue or complain about this, just accept the fact that you are no longer in your home country. Also, if you complain or argue too much, people in your new country will begin to dislike you because you will appear arrogant and surly.

4) Do not insult their weather, rules, homes, laws, culture, cars or food. Slowly acclimate yourself, being kind and courteous at all times. In some countries, people are more formal at first, so accept that and be polite in all circumstances. Do not try to act like you know everything. Do not try to speak with their accent or use their slang unless you are positive you are using it correctly. If you ask, people will likely be happy to help you as long as you remain courteous and respectful.

5) Do not over-commit to anything. Your move is likely based on some type of relationship with friends, employers, and business associates. These people are going to try to help you make good choices about moving, getting a job, a home, etc. Before making any serious commitments at all, give yourself time to learn the ropes in your new country. The very best intentions do not always work out, so give yourself time to learn a few things about your new country, associates, real estate, and other important things before signing your name on the line. You may find that your preferences differ from those who are helping you and you don't want to get locked into an unfavorable situation. Before signing any major contracts for a job, car or home, plan to spend several months, even a year, to make sure you are making the right decisions.

6) Don't wait to find a reputable international moving company. Most likely, you are going to have to ship by ocean in order to move all of your belongings. You have paid good money for your belongings and you need to know that they will be well taken care of. As soon as you know that you are moving overseas, you need to start getting information from various moving companies. You will want to get a quote from each international moving company, with a minimum of three quotes. It's possible that you do not yet have your visas yet, but representatives from the companies will need time to come to your home and access everything to go on your inventory form. They will need to know about every single thing in your home that needs to be moved.

Relocating is hard work and there are always potential problems along the way. Thankfully, most of them can be avoided by careful thought and planning. Give yourself plenty of time and realize that although you might make some mistakes along the way, you will soon be in your new country, learning a new culture, and broadening your horizons.