Before you make your plan to move from France to another country, you might have a lot of questions. Here’s where we come in with answers on everything from packing and shipping. When is the right time to ask for a moving quotation? While 12 months before the move might seem like a long time to plan an international move, you may be shocked how fast the time goes by—especially when you are investigating and planning your move. Also, depending on where you’re going, you may need a year or more to get your visa. Give yourself plenty of time to arrange relocation quotations, appoint different relocation companies and finalize all of your preparations. We recommend you make contact at least three months before your planned moving date. 2. Should I hire a professional moving company to pack my belongings? There are a lot of expats out there with just as many worries as you do. Packing your belongings can be a process, particularly at the beginning of the move. If you hire professional packers, they are fully trained to make sure your possessions are well protected and perfectly safe throughout the entire shipping. You can find out some packing tips to help you. 3. Do I need to prepare anything for the moving day? Before the packers’ arrival, make sure you get rid of any items you do not want to take with you. Disconnect and defrost refrigerators, drain the washing machine and thoroughly clean the house. Don’t forget to maintain apart any items you will need to take with you when traveling, including passports, money, travel documents, medical records, important paperwork, jewelry, valuables and suitcases. 4. Do I need a transit insurance? It is important to remember that your possessions will be traveling by ship, plane, or truck of which carries inherent risks. For your peace of mind, get a transit insurance that provides full replacement cost coverage on a door-to-door, all-risks basis. Check out if additional protection is available to cover pairs and sets, electrical and mechanical derangement and damage through mold and mildew. 5. Is there any online tracking system? Most moving companies have a common platform for operation and communication. This means that before you arrive at your destination, you will already have up-to-date information on the online tracking system. More questions? Contact our local experts and they will help you with your relocation.