International Moving

Your Ultimate Checklist for a Stress-Free Move Overseas from Australia

July 24, 2025 by Nuss Removals

Moving overseas from Australia marks an exciting new adventure, but it comes with unique challenges. Careful preparation ensures your transition is smooth and less stressful, protecting you from pitfalls that can disrupt your plans.

Hiring experienced international removalists like Nuss Removals simplifies your move, letting you comfortably settle into life abroad. Follow this simple nine-step checklist for a stress-free move overseas.

More Aussies Are Considering a Move from Australia

Australia recorded 221,000 departures in 2023-24, an 8% increase over the previous year. Although departures are still below pre-pandemic levels, they’re rising fast, driven by cost of living pressure, remote work opportunities, or simply the allure of a new location.

Partnering with an experienced international removalist ensures your belongings travel safely and arrive with no hassle. It means you can focus on adapting to your new home and not the moving process. Top-tier international removalists help you navigate shipping, customs, insurance, and timing complexities.

Learn more: How International Removalists Can Simplify Your Move Overseas.

Step 1: Thoroughly Research Your New Destination

Don’t just pack your bags. Learn the local culture, customs, and etiquette so you can adapt quickly and avoid awkward situations. Check the year-round weather and pick up basic local phrases to help ease daily interactions.

Make sure you understand the legal side of things. Each country has its own visa rules and entry requirements. Sort out your documents early to avoid last-minute stress when you arrive.

Step 2: Sort Out Your Finances

Sort your finances early before moving from Australia. Notify your bank and ask about transfer fees, exchange rates, and global services. Open a local bank account soon after arrival. It makes daily payments easier and helps avoid high currency conversion costs.

Step 3: Review Legal and Tax Obligations

Understand your tax responsibilities before moving overseas from Australia. You may still have obligations under Australian tax law, depending on your situation. Learn the tax rules in your new country as well. A local advisor can help you stay compliant and avoid costly surprises.

Step 3: Arrange Healthcare and Insurance

Sort out your healthcare before moving overseas from Australia. Check if your current cover applies abroad and update or cancel it as needed. Research local healthcare options and get international insurance that suits your destination. It protects you from high costs and gives you peace of mind.

Step 4: Notify Government and Service Providers

Before moving overseas from Australia, notify key government agencies like Medicare, the ATO, and the Electoral Commission. This helps you avoid issues later. Redirect your mail and cancel or transfer utilities early. That includes electricity, water, internet, and any local subscriptions.

Step 5: Declutter and Decide What to Take

Moving overseas from Australia is the perfect time to declutter. Keep only what’s essential, sentimental, or hard to replace. Sell, donate, or recycle the rest. Create a detailed inventory to help your removalists pack efficiently and clear customs smoothly.

Step 6: Hire Trusted International Movers

Choosing professional movers is key when moving overseas from Australia. Experts like Nuss Removals know the process from Sydney to any global destination. We use quality packing materials and handle customs paperwork with care. This keeps your belongings safe and avoids unnecessary delays. Book an in-home survey with one of our experienced moving consultants for an accurate quotation.

Step 7: Organise Important Documents

Organise your important documents early when moving overseas from Australia. Gather passports, visas, medical records, and other key paperwork in one safe place. Keep originals accessible during travel and back them up digitally. Cloud storage or secure apps help protect your files if anything goes missing.

Step 8: Prepare for Emotional and Social Adjustment

Moving overseas from Australia involves more than logistics. It’s also an emotional transition. Culture shock, homesickness, and adjusting to a new community can all be challenging. Recognising these feelings in advance helps mitigate their impact.

Joining local expat groups, online communities, or social media forums provides valuable support networks. Engaging with people who have faced similar transitions can also offer practical advice, emotional support, and meaningful connections that enhance your overseas experience.

Step 9: Book Relocation Support Services

Providers like Nuss Removals offer comprehensive packages tailored to your specific needs:

International Removals Tailored to You

Nuss Removals handles overseas moves from start to finish. We provide full international removal services from Sydney to anywhere in the world. Our team packs, ships, and delivers your belongings with expert care. We take pride in offering personalised, efficient service backed by over 100 years of experience.

Complete Relocation Support

We do more than just move boxes. We can help you settle into your new country with relocation services like school searches, home finding, and area orientation. We also assist with visas, customs, and car or pet transport. Your dedicated move coordinator stays with you through the whole process to keep things smooth and stress-free.

Trusted Global Network

Nuss Removals holds global accreditations with FIDI/FAIM, the highest international standard in the moving industry. We are also proud members of IAM, OMNI, AIMA, AFRA and AMG, which ensures your overseas move meets the strictest global and Australian quality standards.

This ensures you get the same high-quality service overseas as you do in Sydney. Our pre-move survey, professional packing, and custom quotes leave nothing to chance.

Learn more: What are Relocation Services? Understanding the Types and Benefits.

Prepare for Your Move with Confidence

Moving overseas from Australia takes planning, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With over a century of experience, Nuss Removals ensures your international move runs smoothly and with care. Whether you are moving abroad or relocating to Australia, we manage every detail with precision.

Let our expert team guide your move so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Reach out today to start your tailored relocation plan. Call us on 1300 466 877 or +61 2 3820 9316 for a free quote. Step into your next chapter with calm, confidence, and Nuss by your side.

How Long Do Removalists Take When Moving Homes?

May 12, 2025 by Nuss Removals

Are you moving soon and wondering, “How long do removalists take?” Several factors can impact the answer, but with preparation and the right moving partner, you can keep your move on schedule and stress-free.

Whether you’re looking for removalists Sydney locals trust, interstate or relocation services overseas, knowing what to expect helps you stay in control.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your move with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises.

Factors That Affect the Time Taken by Removalists in Sydney

Several key factors affect how long do removalists take on moving days:

Home Size

Smaller homes take less time to move. Studios or one-bedrooms take 3–5 hours. Two or three-bedroom homes need 6–8 hours, depending on your belongings. Larger homes with four or more bedrooms can take 10 hours or more due to extra furniture, boxes, and trips. These are average hours only.

Distance Between Homes

The further you move, the more time it takes. Local Sydney moves can take a full day, depending on traffic and access. Interstate moves may take several days due to the distances involved.

Access to the Property

Tight access points slow down the process. Stairs, no lifts, or narrow hallways make moving trickier. If there’s limited parking, removalists must carry items further, which adds time and effort.

More Furniture Means More Time

The more items you have, the longer it takes to load and unload. Bulky furniture like pianos or wardrobes need more care and handling. Fragile, antique, or high-value items often require extra protection and time.

Timing and Season

Moves during weekends or peak months like December and January take longer to schedule. Sydney’s peak-hour traffic can delay even short moves. School holidays and public holidays also affect how quickly Sydney movers can work.

Personalised Volume Assessments by Nuss Removals

Nuss Removals offers volume assessments to provide accuracy, help with planning, and reduce stress – choose from two flexible options:

In-Home Consultation

One of our experienced consultants will visit your home and walk through each room with you. They will assess furniture, layout, and access points to determine what’s needed for your move. They can even provide advice on packing

Virtual Video Survey

Pressed for time? Nuss uses an intelligent virtual tool to map your home and estimate moving costs. You will receive a secure video link to give our team a virtual walkthrough of your space, or we can set up a time for a video call.

You’ll receive live feedback, fast estimates, and quicker booking. We can easily customise your quote by removing furniture that isn’t being moved, keeping costs accurate from the start.

Book your in-home consultation or speak to our experts today for guidance you can trust.

How to Speed Up the Moving Process

Nuss Removals Experts suggest several tips to speed up your moving process.

Start with disposing of anything you no longer need or use. Donate old clothes to charity, sell unused furniture online, or dispose of broken appliances. A cleaner home means fewer boxes, faster loading, and lower transport costs.

Pack your belongings in strong, clearly labelled boxes. Label them by room – like ‘Kitchen – Plates’ or ‘Bedroom – Linen. Wrap delicate items like glassware or ceramics in bubble wrap to prevent damage and save time later. Nuss provides a full packing service too so you may want to consider that option.

Disassemble large furniture a day early. Reserve a parking spot near your door to speed up loading. Pack essentials—like toiletries, chargers, and snacks—in one box for easy access after the move.

Why Choose Expert Removalists in Sydney

Here’s why professional experience and local know-how matter more than you think.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Removalist insurance is optional but highly recommended. Even with Nuss’s high standards, transit damage can still occur from time to time. Nuss offers cover for local, interstate, overseas relocation services, and storage moves.

Learn more: Nuss Insurance in Australia.

Support Services

Are you wondering how to relocate to another country, within Sydney, or interstate without stress? Nuss’ movers and packers in Sydney offer expert support, fast service, and flexible moving solutions. Their team handles packing, cleaning, transport, handyman help, and more to make your move easier.

Learn more: Nuss Expert Support Services.

Familiarity with Sydney Streets

Local knowledge saves valuable time on moving days. Nuss drivers understand traffic patterns, parking restrictions, and the quickest routes through suburbs like Parramatta, Surry Hills, or the Northern Beaches.

Specialised Tools and Equipment

The right equipment makes all the difference when handling bulky or fragile items. Nuss teams use trolleys, hoists, ramps, and padded wraps to speed up loading while protecting your furniture.

Express Moving Options

Do you need to move quickly? Nuss offers flexible services like same-day moves, weekend scheduling, and extra crew support. If you’re relocating last minute or need to vacate by Monday, we can adjust the team size to meet your deadline.

Streamlined Coordination

A dedicated coordinator manages every move and handles all logistics from start to finish. They plan your schedule, communicate with the team, and resolve issues early to prevent delays. You stay informed while we keep everything on track.

Learn more: How to Choose a Removalist: A Guide to a Stress-Free Move.

Plan Smart, Move Easier

How long do removalists take depends on many factors, from your home size to traffic conditions. With smart planning and the right support, your move will be seamless.

Nuss Removals provides expert removalists Sydney residents trust, interstate home moving services, and reliable overseas relocations.

Trust 120 years of experience and take the stress out of your move—call us on 1300 466 877 or request a quick quote online.

How International Removalists Can Simplify Your Move Overseas

February 26, 2025 by Nuss Removals

Relocating to a new country is thrilling but can be daunting. The stress of managing logistics, packing, customs, and transport can feel overwhelming without the right support.

That’s where professional international removalists step in to simplify the process. With Nuss Removals guiding you, a complex move becomes a stress-free experience.

Why Moving Overseas From Australia Requires Professional Help

Unlike local or even interstate moves, relocating to another country involves intricate logistics. It’s not just about packing your belongings and shipping them; you need to think about:

Choosing between air or sea freight.
Preparing items for long transit times.
Navigating customs regulations.
Safely transporting fragile or valuable items.
How you plan to receive your belongings when you arrive.

Unique Needs of Moving Overseas from Australia

Migrant departures from Australia rose by 8% last year, with 221,000 Australians heading overseas. Moving from Sydney, Australia’s busiest city, adds extra layers of complexity:

Distance and Shipping Challenges

Sydney’s distance from (most) global hubs means that shipping tends to take a little longer, or cost a little more. A global shipping container shortage and rising freight costs have added to this equation, making it more important than ever to partner with an international removalist who can access favourable prices and shipping routes.

Financial Considerations and Tax Obligations

Double taxation agreements affect how much tax you pay when living overseas. Understanding these agreements avoids unexpected financial headaches. Moving money between countries and setting up accounts also takes time and effort.

Visas, Vaccinations, and Health Requirements

Securing a visa takes patience and planning, especially for study or work purposes. Vaccination and health rules vary widely between countries. Getting these sorted before you go helps avoid stressful delays.

We recommend checking Smartraveller for more information.

Help From Local Experts

Sydney’s busy ports and airports make international moving tricky. Removalists with local and international experience like Nuss Removals, who have been helping Sydneysiders move for over a century, make the process smoother. We handle customs, logistics, and tricky routes, so you don’t have to.

Too much to deal with on your own? Request a Quote from Nuss Removals.

What Do International Removalists Offer?

International removalists like Nuss Removals tailor solutions to simplify packing, customs, and delivery for seamless overseas moves:

Comprehensive Packing Services

Professional movers use specialised techniques to protect fragile items, label and inventory everything for easy unpacking at your destination, and pack shipping containers to prevent damage during long transits.

Customs Documentation and Compliance

Every country has unique import rules, and improper documentation can lead to delays, fines, or confiscated items.

Moving companies like Nuss Removals handle all necessary paperwork, ensuring compliance with local laws and minimal customs clearance timelines.

Door-to-Door Services

Professional removalists offer door-to-door service, handling everything from pickup to delivery overseas for a seamless, time-saving move.

Specialised Shipping Options

Not every move is the same. That’s why international removalists offer tailored shipping options, including:

Air freight: Ideal for smaller, time-sensitive shipments, air freight ensures your belongings arrive quickly.
Sea freight: A cost-effective solution for larger shipments. It is perfect for those moving their entire household.

Insurance for Peace of Mind

We understand moving can be overwhelming, and unexpected things can happen. At Nuss, we offer removal insurance to keep your belongings safe, whether in transit or storage. Our friendly team is here to arrange the right coverage for you, no matter where you’re moving.

Learn more: What are Relocation Services? Understanding the Types and Benefits

Benefits of Hiring International Removalists

International removalists streamline the moving process:

Time-Saving Solutions

At Nuss, we’re not just a removalist; we also provide relocation support services such as home search , school search and city orientation, b helping you find your way in a new city. Let us take care of the all important details so you can focus on what really matters: getting your family ready for the next chapter.

Reduced Stress with a Personal Move Coordinator

Our Personal Move Coordinator is here to help. Our experts will guide you through customs, logistics, and every detail. With their support, you relax, knowing we handle everything. We make your move stress-free.

Cost Efficiency

Hiring international removalists may seem like an added expense at first. However, their expertise saves money by avoiding customs fines, preventing damage through proper packing, and streamlining shipping logistics to prevent delays.

How to Choose the Right Moving Companies for Overseas Relocations

Here’s your checklist for comparing international removalists in Sydney:

1. Check Experience and Expertise

Experience is key when choosing a removalist. Look for companies with a proven track record in international moves, particularly those with expertise in the countries you’re relocating to.

2. Read Reviews and Testimonials

Customer feedback is one of the best indicators of a removalist’s reliability. Look for testimonials and reviews from past clients to get a sense of their service quality and professionalism.

3. Evaluate Pricing and Services

International moving costs vary, so compare quotes carefully. Don’t focus only on price; ensure the removalist offers essential services like packing, insurance, and door-to-door delivery.

4. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

Ensure your chosen removalist is licensed and compliant with international moving standards. Additionally, confirm they offer adequate insurance coverage to protect your belongings during transit.

Nuss Removals: Over a Century of Excellence

At Nuss Removals, we have proudly served Sydney families for over 100 years, moving them locally, nationally, and internationally. We specialise in seamless international moving solutions to destinations worldwide, including Europe, Asia, the USA, and New Zealand.

Comprehensive Moving Services

Our services include professional packing, freight management, secure storage, and expert relocation assistance. Whether you’re moving an entire household or a few treasured items, we tailor every move to your unique needs.

Why We Stand Out

Relocation package: Comprehensive support to help you settle in, from finding housing to navigating local services.
Pre-move survey: Accurate quotes and attention to detail for a flawless transition.
Global network: Enjoy consistent, top-tier service wherever life takes you.
Sustainability: As of 2024, Nuss Removals has gone plastic-free for international moves from Sydney..

Planning Your Move Overseas From Australia?

Nuss Removals is an experienced international removalist in Sydney. We’re here to help with everything, from packing up to settling in. Moving a few boxes, fragile furniture, pets, or your whole life? We’ll make sure it all goes smoothly. No stress, just support.

Call us at 1300 466 877 or request a quote online. Let Nuss handle the hard part so you can focus on the exciting part.

It’s done! US President Joe Biden has signed the bill to protect Personal details (PII) of people moving to the USA.

January 30, 2024 by Nuss Removals

We have reported previously on the US Government practice of allowing the US Customs and Border Protection to release the personal details of individuals moving to the USA, these details then appear on the internet and so quite legally enter into the public domain.

Once released this Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is virtually impossible to remove.

Up to now, this release of PII could only be prevented by completing and submitting a formal confidentiality request to the US Customs service. We are pleased to advise that the bill has finally been signed and it is now law that this information be protected and not released. This is a huge win for our industry associations who championed the task to force this legislation and we congratulate them for this achievement.

Moving to the US? Contact us to discuss your moving needs.

Moving to USA? Take steps NOW to protect your PII (Personally Identifiable Information).

June 27, 2023 by Nuss Removals

If you are planning to move home to the USA then you need to be aware that the US Government routinely releases personal details (Personally Identifiable Information – PII) on the internet.

This is the personal information that must be provided to US Customs to clear household goods shipments. This is normal procedure and can only be prevented by completing and submitting a Confidentiality Request well in advance to prevent this happening.

Once released into the public domain, this personal information (which can include passport details and social security number etc) are available for anyone to access. So if you are moving to the USA and wish to protect your PII then it is essential to contact US Customs and Border Protection Department (CBP) as soon as possible to request confidentiality.

It may seem strange that while there is so much focus on personal details being accessed by hackers, the same details can be legally released by a government but it happens and so to prevent this anyone with a shipment of household goods moving to the USA is well advised to take steps to request confidentiality before their details are released.

The current position is explained at: Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Legislation Discussed at Recent U.S. House Ways and Means Subcommittee Hearing – IAM (iamovers.org) For more information visit USA Confidentiality Request – Nuss Removals or contact your chosen moving company.

We will endeavour to keep the expat community updated on important information such as this and further bulletins will be released as and when changes to this current process are legislated and made known to the public.

In the meantime and to avoid the release of any PII by the US Government and subsequent publication on the internet, we strongly recommend that you take advantage of the information above and submit a request to the US Customs and Border Protection Department for the non-disclosure and of your PII to ensure confidentiality of your personal details. The sooner you lodge this request, the better.

5 Truths to Know About Moving Overseas

November 3, 2019 by Nuss Removals

Taking that huge step to move out of the country will require more than just courage. In fact, you can fall chest deep and feel extreme stress in the process. Even the mere logistics of this big move are enough to make the calmest person lose their cool.

To fully prepare you for moving overseas, your professional international removalist team at Nuss Removals want you to be aware of the truths about moving overseas, as you’ll be facing them throughout the relocation process.

1. You must be willing to start over

When you decide to live an expatriate life, you will be leaving your family and friends back home. You need to prepare to be away from the ones you love and be 100% willing to start over.

And even if you are fortunate enough to take your family along with you, you need to be prepared to leave some of your belongings behind.

Logistical and budgetary constraints would make you think twice about doing so. Therefore, you need to steel yourself for the reality that you can’t take everything with you, and be ready for the tasks ahead. For furniture or belongings you can’t take with you overseas, make use of a furniture storage facility to secure them while you’re away.

2. You should comply with all expat visa requirements

If you will be moving abroad on company sponsorship, then it is likely that you will already have a working visa issued. If this is not the case, make sure to research the terms and conditions of getting a visa in the country you intend to move to.

Bear in mind that a visitor’s visa is only valid, on average, for about three months, and there are strict immigration policies you need to consider if migration is your final objective. So, if your purpose is to migrate, you should prepare months ahead or even a year or two in advance to ensure you satisfy immigration requirements.

Once your visa is approved, make sure you have a temporary place to stay in the host country, as well as a substantial amount of savings ready. Most countries actually require visa applicants to declare their financial assets as part of the visa application requirements. Financial preparation will ensure you will have time to search for a viable property you can either buy or rent once you have settled in.

3. You need to learn about the local culture

Expect that the country you’ll be moving to will have a different culture to what you’re accustomed to. Moreover, your chosen host country may use a different language, making it much harder for you to communicate with locals.

To easily adapt to your new environment, it’s important that you conduct advanced research to know a little more about what you can expect when you start living on foreign soil. When you get there, be open-minded and learn and respect the culture and language of the receiving country. After all, you made the decision to go and live there, whether for work or for a lifestyle change, so prepare for adjustments and be flexible.

However, it’s hard not to miss the comforts of your home country, especially the familiar food and traditions. But being outside your comfort zone can also lead to good things. Besides learning your surroundings, you should also take time to:

Explore your neighbourhood and know where the nearest hospital, supermarket, etc., is. This way, in an emergency or when you are busy, you will know exactly where to go.
Get to know food outlets or restaurants that serve cuisine from your home country.
Find out if there are any local groups comprising people of your ethnicity, and see if you are interested and able to join them.
Familiarise yourself with the areas that you should avoid for your own safety.
Protect yourself by having health insurance in case you become sick, injured, or get involved in an accident while living abroad.

4. You have to pack with a strategy

Unlike the typical packing that you do when you travel for a vacation, packing for a move overseas is far more complex. You need to have a strategic approach when you pack for your move abroad to ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.

Make a list – Think and list down the tasks you need to accomplish. Your list will serve two purposes: you have a record of what needs to be done (tasks) and it gets all those things out of your head, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting something. You will be driving yourself crazy if you continuously think of all the tasks you have to do.
Sort items – It’s much easier to pack when you sort your items according to what you can donate/give away, pack, or sell. If you have enough time to do a yard sale, you can earn some extra money that you can use while you settle in overseas. Sorting will also greatly reduce the things you need to bring, thereby reducing your moving expenses.
Keep an inventory – It’s hard to remain organised when you have no idea where your things are. As you pack your items, number the boxes or container in which they get stored. Itemise your list of what is inside each box to make sure that everything is accounted for when you arrive in your new location.

5. You must organise all paperwork

If it’s your first time, you will definitely find it amazing (and even frustrating at times) how much documentation and paperwork is needed to move overseas. You will need to have a simple system for organising all paperwork to avoid the headache of sorting through them or looking for what you need.

What you should do is to buy a binder and several binder sleeves to contain:

Birth certificates
Insurance papers
Kids’ school records
Marriage license
Medical records
Property-related documents (e.g. deeds of sale)
Travel documents

With all your paperwork kept together in one binder, you can easily find whatever document you need when it is required. You can even put your binder inside your carry-on bag so that you have it with you at all times as you travel.

Preparation is Key

Living abroad can be a wonderful adventure to look forward to if you conduct thorough research and planning.

Whether you’re in search of something new or just following your career path, living an expat life isn’t as glamorous as projected in the media, and it will require a lot of work. In fact, before finalising your decision, you should have a complete understanding of what it will take to be a successful expat living abroad.

It’s challenging to begin a new life in an unfamiliar place, but it isn’t impossible. The priceless experiences and lessons you’ll get while living an expatriate life will play a great role in your personal development. As long as you’re 100% prepared prior to your departure, you have a better chance of having a smooth and successful transition to life abroad.

Allow yourself the opportunity to truly enjoy your move and take advantage of new experiences. Work with a reliable international removalist so you have fewer things to worry about and have a stress-free move overseas.

Planning for an upcoming international relocation?

Contact Nuss Removals for a stress-free international move, today.