Three mistakes that could sink your international relocation

Moving internationally? This isn't any ordinary move.

International moves are different from domestic moves, mainly in that they require more of everything: more preparation, more awareness, and usually more time from point A to B. Here are 3 key factors that could determine if your international move will succeed.

Error #1

Not interviewing professional international moving companies with expertise in international moving.

Unless your shipment is very small (in which case it could go by air), your goods will more than likely be shipped by ocean when moving internationally. This means that your shipment will be placed in a large metal container, which will in turn be loaded onto a ship by a crane, usually stacked several containers high. There can be shifting inside the container when it's lifted on to the ship, and also while the ship is buffeted by big waves at sea.

Items packed improperly should be able to withstand the normal amount of shifting that occurs during ocean transit.

Hiring the right mover is the number one way to ensure successful international moving. If it's packed correctly, you're more likely to have a damage-free shipment at your destination. Ask your moving company about their familiarity with packing for international moves. How many international moves do they handle per year? If they don't seem knowledgeable, go with a different mover.

Error #2

Not being organized.

Some tips: If you are having some of your goods put into storage while the rest goes overseas, be sure to clearly separate what items are intended for which shipment. A good technique is to use sticky notes; for example, you can use different-colored paper to indicate which shipment an item belongs in.

Separate everything that must not be packed, such as passports, medicine, or important documents. Irreplaceable items such as family photos and videos should be carried with you as well. When moving day comes, the packers will move quickly and you might not notice if these things disappear from the kitchen counter until your shipment is on the truck. Ideally, shut off a room in the house for everything you intend to bring in your suitcase or carry-on, or keep them at a neighbor's during the move.

You'll also want to make sure that you've cleared out things that cannot be included in your shipment. Items such as paint, aerosol cans and propane tanks are considered hazardous materials that are not allowed in international shipments. Save yourself the stress and get rid of these hazardous materials before moving day.

Error #3

Don't go radio-silence when you're stuff's in transit. Keep a phone line that you will have access to -- whether it's your cell phone or landline -- connected and turned on. Since you will likely be changing time zones, email is often a convenient way to maintain communication with your moving company. Set up a Web-based account.

Should the international shippers have a contact in the U.S. if anything comes up while you are traveling? Of course. Also provide an up-to-date list of contact details prior to your departure.

Liz Shaw, a Relocation.com intern, coordinated international moves for two years as a relocation specialist for Arpin International Group.