Moving abroad is so much more than just transporting boxes from A to B - it's the start of a completely new life. To ensure that this adventure doesn't descend into chaos, clever planning and knowing the right steps are worth their weight in gold. Instead of letting bureaucracy and logistics overwhelm you, I'll show you how you can overcome the typical hurdles with a good structure.
A successful move abroad begins in the head
The thought of moving to another country is exciting, but it can also quickly become overwhelming. It is a huge project that needs to be well prepared mentally and organizationally. Many Germans dare to take this step, especially often in neighboring countries such as Switzerland. But instead of sticking to rigid schedules, it's much smarter to divide the whole process into logical phases. This gives you a flexible framework that allows you to always keep an overview.
By the way, Switzerland is not so popular for nothing. Many people from German-speaking countries have been drawn there for years. For 2026 around20,695 emigrationsexpected of German citizens to come to Switzerland – in addition to the around324,000 Germanswho already live there. This trend shows how important professional and smooth logistics are. You can find out more about the development of emigration goals atRead ZDFheute.
A well-planned move is not a rigid corset, but an adaptable timetable. Flexibility is the key to being able to react to the unexpected without losing sight of the big goal.
The following infographic shows you the four central phases that serve as a common thread for your entireMoving abroadserve.
As you can see, moving abroad begins long before you first pack and is only really complete once you have arrived and settled into your new home.
Every international move can be divided into four core phases. This overview will help you structure the process and not forget anything important.
The four phases of your move at a glance
| Phase | Time window before the move | Core tasks |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Long-term preparation | 12-6 months | Research the target country, plan finances, obtain initial offers, clear out |
| 2. Concrete planning | 6-2 months | Cancel contracts (apartment, cell phone), book transport, apply for documents |
| 3. The hot phase | From 2 months | Pack systematically, create an inventory list, make address changes |
| 4. Arrive & settle in | After the move | Registering with the authorities, setting up an apartment, building a new social network |
These phases give you a clear structure that you can use to tackle your move step by step.
Your foundation: The long-term preparation
A relaxedMoving abroaddoesn't just start with packing the boxes, but alreadysix to twelve monthspreviously. This early phase is crucial because this is where you set the course for the entire process. It's not about packing lists, but about the big strategy.
Take the time now to dive deep into research for your target country. Clarify the visa requirements, get a realistic picture of the cost of living and check the exact requirements for a work permit. At the same time, this is the perfect moment to take an honest inventory of your household.
Every item that you don't take with you will end up saving you money and your nerves. Be radical and ask yourself: What is really indispensable and what is just baggage?
You can also start by getting initial offers from international moving companies. Don't just compare the price, but above all the depth of the service. Do you need complete customs clearance, or is flexible additional loading via a platform like TIXPI sufficient for a few favorite items? By typingplan your first steps early, keep costs much better under control.
Check important documents and insurance
At this early stage, you should definitely check the validity of your most important documents. An expired passport can throw the whole schedule off.
- Passport:Is it still valid long enough, including for any visa applications that may take a long time?
- Driving license:Does it need to be rewritten or do you need an international version?
- Birth and marriage certificates:Are certified copies or even translations required? Clarify this early.
An often underestimated but absolutely essential point is health insurance. Find out whether your protection abroad even applies or whether a new policy is necessary. For some, theForeign health insurance from Amex Platinumbe an interesting option.
By the way, you are not alone in taking this big step. Emigration is an integral part of modern mobility and creates a high demand for reliable logistics. In the year alone2024were759,630 departuresregistered by people with German citizenship, as can be seen in thecurrent migration report from the BAMFcan read.
The critical phase: Eight weeks before the move
Time is running! About two months before yourMoving abroadThe hot phase begins in which plans have to become final decisions. Now you have reached the point where you are taking binding steps that are difficult or impossible to reverse. Your administrative marathon is reaching its climax.
Now is the moment to terminate all current contracts. Don't just think about the rental agreement, but really everything: electricity, gas, internet and all subscriptions such as newspapers or streaming services. My tip from experience: Never underestimate the notice periods. A single missed date can cost you unnecessary money that could be put to much better use in your new home.
A small but crucial trick that is often forgotten: Set up a forwarding order abroad at the post office. This way you can ensure that important letters from authorities or banks still reach you even after the move.
Now you can proactively approach your banks and insurance companies. Inform them about your move and clarify which contracts are perhaps even internationally valid and which you have to terminate and re-conclude in the new country.
Finalize transport and pack systematically
You should now finally book the transport of your household goods. Think carefully about what is right for you.Sea freightis usually the cheaper option, but requires patience - allow several weeks.Air freightis fast, but also significantly more expensive. It's not just about the price, but also about the terms and the associated risks.
At the same time the big packing begins. Create a detailed inventory list – ideally in German and in the language of your target country. This list is not only worth its weight in gold for insurance if something goes wrong, but also an absolute must for smooth customs clearance.
In order not to lose track of the packing chaos, a simple system has proven itself:
- Proceed room by room:Start where you need things the least. Basements, guest rooms or the bookshelves are a good place to start.
- Label clearly:Mark each box not only with the contents, but also with the target room (e.g. “Kitchen – glasses & cups”). This will save you hours of searching later.
- Pack a “first night box”:Everything you need to have on hand in the first 24 hours in your new home goes here: important documents, toiletries, a change of clothes, charging cables and some tools.
With this systematic preparation, you can take a lot of the terror out of moving day and ensure that arriving in your new life is much more relaxed.
Customs, transport and the art of safe packaging
Logistics is the heart of everyMoving abroad. To be honest: choosing the right transport partner is crucial to the success of your project. This is particularly true when it comes to smooth customs processing.
A professional shipping company that takes care of all customs clearance is an invaluable help, especially when moving outside the EU. Familiarize yourself with the exact import regulations of your destination country early on. Although there are often generous allowances for personal items to be moved, significant fees can quickly arise for certain items.
A detailed and absolutely truthful inventory list is your most important document at customs. It is the basis for quick, problem-free processing and prevents expensive delays or additional payments.
The right packaging is the best insurance
A piece of advice from experience: Never skimp on packaging materials. Every franc you save here can quickly be multiplied by transport damage. Stable, double-walled boxes, plenty of padding material such as bubble wrap and packing silk are the best insurance for your belongings.
For valuable or bulky pieces of furniture, a professional disassembly and assembly service can be a huge relief. Providers like TIXPI provide experienced teams who ensure that your furniture arrives safely and is immediately ready for use in the new home. You will also find suitable solutions for more complex logistics such as moving from Switzerland to Germany. You can find out more about this in ourGuide to moving from Switzerland to Germany.
Insurance and transportation options
Be sure to check the carrier's standard liability. Often this only covers a fraction of the actual value. Additional, separate moving insurance that covers the new value of all your household contents gives you the security you need and a more peaceful night's sleep.
Mobility in border regions is a strong driver for the transport industry. In 2023, for example, aroundleft 27,100 GermansBaden-WĂĽrttemberg towards abroad. Many of them also return, which only underlines the need for flexible and reliable cross-border logistics solutions. You can find out more about these regional migration movements in thePublications of the Baden-WĂĽrttemberg State Statistical Officeread up.
Arrive and master the first steps in your new life
The moving truck is empty and the boxes are in the apartment - but anyone who thinks the worst is over is often wrong. Now the phase begins that turns a new place into a real home. Your very first priority after theMoving abroad: going to the local authorities to register. Don't see it as a chore, but rather as the key to your new life. Without this registration, often nothing works - no bank account, no cell phone contract, no registration with electricity and water suppliers.
As soon as your moving goods arrive, an immediate check is required. Take the time to compare the freight with your inventory list. If you discover even the smallest scratch, document it immediately with photos. Report transport damage to the shipping company and your insurance company without hesitation. Attention: The deadlines for this are often extremely short, sometimes just a few days. Anyone who hesitates here will be left with the damage.
Start by unpacking your carefully prepared “first night box”. It contains everything you need for the first 24 hours - from toiletries to charging cables to important documents - and is worth its weight in gold for a stress-free start.
Then it’s time for the big unpacking. My tip: proceed strategically. First, focus on the rooms you need most, i.e. the kitchen and bedroom. Everything else can wait.
Finding your way around a new environment
Settling in means more than just assembling furniture. It's about really arriving. So get going and explore your new neighborhood in a targeted manner.
- Where is the nearest supermarket?Find not just one, but maybe the little shop around the corner with the better products.
- Are there doctors nearby who speak your language?An important question to clarify before you need it.
- How does public transport work?Take a test ride by bus or train to get a feel for the routes and speeds.
A social network is at least as important as a furnished apartment. Dare! Local clubs, sports groups or online communities for expats are invaluable resources for quickly finding connections. If you would like to know more about how to usearrive in the new quarters and quickly integrate, you will find many useful tips in our guide. The new place of residence is transformed into a home in no time.
Frequently asked questions about moving abroad
Moving abroad is exciting, but it also brings with it a lot of questions. We have collected the most common concerns for you and provide our tried-and-tested answers here. This way you can navigate safely through the planning and avoid typical stumbling blocks.
How much does moving abroad really cost?
A general answer would be dubious because the costs depend on many factors: the volume of your items, the type of transport (sea or air freight) and of course the distance.
But to give you a rough idea, here are a few guidelines from our experience:
- Moving within Europe:To do this, plan between3,000 and 7,000 CHFa.
- Intercontinental move:Here the sum can quickly be reduced to10,000 CHF or moreincrease.
The crucial tip is: Get at least three detailed offers from specialized shipping companies. Don't just compare the final price, but pay close attention to what is included. Are customs duties, insurance or packaging service already included? This is the only way to get a clear picture of the true total costs.
Do I have to pay customs duties for my moving goods?
That depends entirely on your destination country. Within the EU, things are simple: there are no customs fees for your personal belongings. However, if you move to a third country such as Switzerland, the USA or Great Britain, the world looks different.
The good news: Almost all countries know the regulations for so-called “relocation goods”. This means that your personal effects can usually be imported duty-free.
However, certain conditions must be met for this to happen. In most cases, you will need to prove that the items have been yours for at least six months and are only intended for personal use. Be careful with new goods, vehicles or large quantities of alcohol and tobacco - customs duties and taxes are almost always due here. Your most important tool for a smooth process is a precise and complete inventory list.
What is the most important formality that I must not forget?
Of all the tasks, there is one whose importance is often underestimated: theOfficial deregistration of your place of residencein the home country. This is more than just a bureaucratic obligation – it is the key to cutting ongoing costs.
Without the deregistration certificate, many contracts simply continue to run. For example, you cannot cancel your health insurance or various subscriptions early and you pay for services that you no longer use. It can also lead to tax problems if you are suddenly considered a tax resident in two countries. So be sure to take this step seriously and do it early.
How do I find a reputable international shipping company?
Choosing the right transport partner is half the battle for a successful move. You can recognize a reputable company by some clear characteristics.
Look for internationally recognized certifications likeFIDI(Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux) orI AM(International Association of Movers). Such associations oblige their members to high quality standards. Also read current reviews on independent portals and ask specifically about experiences with moving to your target country. A professional will also always offer you an in-person or virtual viewing for an accurate volume estimate before a binding, written offer is made.
AMoving abroaddoesn't have to be a stressful factor. With the right planning and a reliable partner, the start of your new life will be a success.TIXPIorganizes your entire move - from planning to transport to optional furniture assembly on site. Get your transparent instant offer now and take the first step into your new adventure atTIXPI.