Whether you are moving to a new country for work or you are moving to start an overseas adventure, making the right preparations for your move can help to make everything go more smoothly. Once you've found an international moving company to handle the heavy lifting, use this list to get you and your family ready for your exciting new life in a new country.

Decide What You Absolutely Need To Bring

Depending on where you are moving, you may not have as much space in your new home. Take some time to consider what you need to bring with you and what can stay behind. If your move is temporary, ask your international moving company about storage space options for your items. Consider your new location when packing clothing. For example, you may not need to bring all of your winter gear if you are moving to a warmer climate. You may want to bring just the basic furniture you need, such as a bed, sofa and tables, and spend some time shopping for new items to decorate your home from local shops and stores.

Plan For Transportation

While you may be tempted to move your car overseas with you, it's worth it to consider some of the other transportation options where you are moving. Check to see if your new home is near reliable public transportation before you consider bringing your car. If you are moving to Europe, you may want to downgrade to a smaller European car. In older cities, streets may be more narrow, and the cost of fuel may make a smaller car more affordable for you than your American vehicle. The cost of a gallon of gas in Europe can cost between $6 and $10, depending on the current rates and conditions. Should you choose to ship your vehicle overseas, your international moving company may be able to transport the car for you.

Make Arrangements For Your Pets

Contact the consulate for the country you will be moving to right away to find out about any restrictions regarding bringing pets into the country. Some countries may require a quarantine period before your pet can join you, while others may require your animal to have additional vaccinations before entering the country. Additionally, some countries have placed restrictions on breeds and animal types they allow to cross their borders. For example, may types of terriers are banned in countries such as Germany, France, Romania, Ireland and Israel. Knowing the restrictions before you move can help you plan for your pet's care before you settle in to your new home.

Talk to your international moving company about any questions you may have. The moving experts have extensive experience in international moves and may be able to help you find solutions to problems, even if they don't have to do with packing and shopping your items. Visit http://www.hollandermoving.com/ for more information.