5 Common Relocation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Relocating to a new city or country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From unexpected costs to cultural adjustments, a lack of preparation can turn what should be a smooth transition into a stressful experience. To help you avoid the pitfalls, we’ve outlined five common relocation mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
1. Underestimating the Costs of Relocation
One of the most common mistakes people make is underestimating the true cost of relocating. Expenses such as flights, visa applications, shipping personal belongings and pet transfers can quickly add up. Furthermore, accommodation expenses can quickly escalate if one, especially if one doesn’t have a rental property secured prior to moving. Temporary accommodation in Australian major cities is exorbitantly expensive, and securing a property can often take longer than expected.
How to Avoid This:
Obtain quotes early on for major expenses, including visa applications, flights, pet transfers and shipping of belongings. We can put you in touch with our preferred partners for an obligation-free quote.
Prepare a budget for furnishing your new property. We can provide you with a list of preferred suppliers for affordable furniture and appliances with fast delivery times.
Account for additional expenses such as a night or two in a hotel when you first arrive, airport transfers and car rental.
Set aside an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.
2. Not Researching the Housing Market in Advance
Moving to a new location without thoroughly researching the housing market can lead to frustration, especially in competitive rental markets. This often results in settling for suboptimal living arrangements or paying above your budget.
How to Avoid This:
Start your housing search early and familiarize yourself with rental prices and market trends. Be aware that prices fluctuate throughout the year, with prices increasing towards Christmas and the summer months.
Be aware certain locations are more competitive than others, and certain locations are highly competitive at certain times of the year (for example, properties within walking distance of the Universities are extremely competitive in February/March).
Engage a relocation service that can help you secure a property before your arrival and save several thousands on temporary accommodation.
Prepare all necessary documents, such as proof of income and references, to streamline your rental application.
Make sure your references are aware they will receive reference checks and are able to respond to these as soon as possible. If possible, provide references that are in Australia, as different time zones may make it difficult to provide a reference on time.
3. Neglecting to Plan for Schooling and Childcare
For families with children, overlooking school enrollment deadlines or the availability of childcare can cause significant delays and stress after moving. School and childcare fees also need to be accounted for in the budget, and this depends on the type of visa you are coming on and which state you will be living in. Enrolment in school can be done at the school on the first day back, which is often a pupil-free day. Enrolment at the start of term is always preferred, as children may form groups during the term for class assignments, sports and extra-curricular activities, so enrolling mid-term may make it difficult for your children to settle in.
How to Avoid This:
Research schools and daycare options in your target location as early as possible. Contact schools to understand their enrollment process and timelines.
Consider using a school search service to find the best options based on your child’s needs and location, particularly if you are wanting your children to attend private school.
Aim to secure your lease before the start of the school term, so your child can enrol at the beginning of the term.
Be aware of catchment zones when looking at schools. Schools do not have to accept students which fall outside of their catchment zone, so if you are wanting your children to attend a particular school, you will need to secure a property within that catchment zone.
Factor in school and childcare fees into your budget. This varies state-to-state and depends on what type of visa you will be coming on. Government school fees can be up to $6,500 per child per year for temporary visa holders, and childcare can be up to $200 per day.
Account for additional expenses (including school uniforms, textbooks and excursions) into your budget. These typically amount to around $1000 per child per year.
4. Failing to Understand Local Laws and Regulations
Each country, and often individual states within countries, has unique laws, in particular regarding taxation, driving and parking. Ignorance of these regulations can lead to hefty fines, delays, or even legal troubles.
How to Avoid This:
Consult with relocation consultants to understand local legal requirements.
Make a checklist of documents needed for compliance, such as Tax File Numbers and international licenses.
Familiarise yourself with local laws, in particular driving regulations and parking laws. Australia has many strict rules and failure to comply with these laws can result in hefty fines. Surveillance cameras are prevalant in the major cities to enforce compliance and issue fines to those breaching the rules. Special recognition technology can detect things like mobile phone use whilst driving, passengers not wearing a seatbelt, cars parking overtime and more. Fines for breaching the laws can be several hundreds of dollars and may also accumulate demerit points.
5. Overpacking or Shipping Prohibited Items
Many people overestimate how much they need to bring with them or inadvertently ship items that are restricted or prohibited in their destination country. This can result in delays at customs, extra shipping costs or even having to pay for items to be destroyed.
How to Avoid This:
Declutter before your move and bring only what is essential.
Research your destination’s customs regulations and prohibited items and make sure you are not importing anything illegal.
Use a professional packing and shipping service to ensure compliance with customs laws.
Relocating doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By planning ahead, doing thorough research, and seeking expert guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
If you’re planning a move and want professional support, our team at Relocation Services Australia is here to help. From securing housing to coordinating school enrollment, we specialise in making your move as seamless as possible. Contact us today to learn more!
