When you move home you and your possessions are in a vulnerable state, and this is even truer with an international move. Planning your move meticulously is essential – you'll be looking at your possessions carefully, considering alternatives such as storage or even selling them – something you just wouldn't do with a UK move.

But however well you've planned it's really important that you enlist the services of a good removals company that offers a tried and tested international moving service.

What are the benefits of an international moving service?

Moving abroad is going to cost more than moving in the UK, that's obvious. But don't skimp on your removal company!

A good international removals company will have a wealth of experience moving customers to a number of countries and will be well versed in the intricacies of planning and executing an international move. A good removal company will probably also dedicate a customer service representative to you – giving you a single, familiar point of contact for the inevitable mountain of questions you're bound to have!

Aside from that, an international moving service can provide some comfort in terms of knowing what to expect. They'll be experts in the foibles and customs guidelines for each country, particularly for well-trodden expat destinations such as Spain, Australia and France. This can really help take the weight off your shoulders.

There is the small risk that the company you engage for your removal services goes bust whilst your belongings are in transit – so make sure the international removals firm you opt for is part of a scheme such as International Movers Mutual Insurance. This guarantees that your move will be completed should your firm go bust – with no additional cost.

Let them pack for you

It's tempting to want to pack up your possessions yourself, but it really is better to leave it to the professionals. You might not think that there's a lot to packing, but there really is – and the importance of good packing becomes even more relevant when you consider that your stuff's going to be taking a long trip – by land, sea or even air.

And don't forget... your movers will be insured for breakages as well.

Sea freight

Filling a container with your possessions may not be feasible and, at any rate, it's an expensive option. If you want to save money and are prepared to wait a bit, consider ""groupage"" – this is where your things share passage with other people's belongings. It can take a little longer (as you have to wait for a container to be filled before departure), but it can save you a lot of money on shipping costs.

Pets

It's possible to take your pet with you abroad (subject to quarantine and any relevant vaccinations). Again, to take the stress off you this can often be arranged by your removal company – or, if not, they'll know a company that can.

And when you arrive, remember...

... to make yourself known to the British Consulate. Registering with the British Consulate will mean that you're on the radar in the event of an emergency – something many expats living through the current turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa can attest to, not to mention those living through the recent natural disasters in Japan and New Zealand.

But the place to start when considering an international move is with a good removals company. They can manage your transition from your current home, to your new one and really take the stress out of what can be a daunting time.