Thinking of making a change? We all know moving can be one of life’s most stressful events,
especially when looking to go abroad. However, with smart planning and strategic choices, the
process can be smoother than ever.
In Spain, homes are being bought by foreigners at a rate higher than ever before and moving
has significantly increased nationally over recent years. Especially with more Americans moving
to Spain, overseas moves have shown notable growth. Here are some key tips for those looking
to move in the near future and avoid complications:
- Do Your Research
When choosing a moving company, it is crucial you consider all factors. Hiring a reliable
company may cost more initially, but will ultimately pay off in reducing damaged or lost items.
Make sure to compare references, pricing, and special offers when booking the company that
best suits your needs.
If you are moving during a busy season (Summer months in Spain), it is recommended that
services are booked well in advance to get the best prices and ensure availability.
2. Plan Early
One of the most important steps in any move is starting early. Aim to begin preparations at least
one month in advance. Create a moving checklist, detailing tasks such as what belongings you’ll
take, sell, or donate, and book your moving company as early as possible. Limiting time for
procrastination is key to coordinating all parts of a big move with ease.
Bonus Tip: Sort through your items and declutter before the move—consider selling items
online or donating to charities. It will reduce both stress and costs.
3. Choose Your Moving Company Wisely
It is crucial to book your moving service well in advance to avoid last minute price hikes or
unavailability, especially if you plan to move during the summer months. Summer is the peak
moving season in Spain, with nearly 45% of all relocations occurring during July and August.
We recommend researching and comparing options, ensuring the company you choose has
solid references, transparent pricing, and offers sufficient insurance for your belongings.
Booking with a reputable company may cost more, but it will save you in the long run reducing
the risk of items being damaged or lost in the move.
4. Stay Organized From the Start
Packing can feel overwhelming, but there’s a way to simplify it: when beginning the packing
process, start taking inventory of your items to track what is being moved and when. This will
reduce the risk of losing items or damage from the move going unnoticed. We also advise
people to organize their items by room and label every box clearly in detail. This method of
labeling ensures an easier unpacking process, avoiding confusion on which items are in which
box.
Bonus Tip: Number your boxes and use a color-coded system for different rooms. This will
speed up the process of settling in.
5. Invest in Quality Packing Materials
Using reliable, high-quality packing materials is crucial to the packing process. For fragile items,
bubble wrap and cushioning material are essential, while smaller boxes are ideal for heavy
objects like books. Similar to hiring a quality moving service, these materials will cost more
money upfront. However, they will save you in the long run by reducing damage and the number
of items needing to be replaced.
Bonus Tip: Use blankets or towels to wrap delicate items like glassware or electronics—this
adds extra padding and makes good use of soft items you’re already packing.
6. Look into Permits
Depending on the city, you may need to obtain permits prior to your move. If you are using a
moving truck, you may need approval to park on the street for an extended period of time.
Without the necessary documents, you may face fines or have trouble accessing your property.
Every city in Spain is different, so specific research ahead of the move is strongly
recommended.
Bonus Tip: If you’re unsure about the permit process, ask your moving company for
assistance—they often have experience securing permits and can guide you through the
process.
7. Create a Moving Day Essentials Box
One often-overlooked part of the moving process is making sure you have the essentials easily
accessible on the big day. Pack a separate box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival,
such as toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, snacks, and important documents. Label this
essentials box and keep it with you during the move rather than loading it into the moving truck,
so you don’t have to dig through everything to find your necessities.
8. Notify Important Parties in Advance
Another vital tip is to inform all necessary parties about your change of address ahead of time.
This includes updating your address with the post office, banks, utility companies, and any subscription services you use. By doing this, you can avoid service interruptions and ensure a
smoother transition to your new home.
Bonus Tip: Make a checklist of all the services and individuals who need to be notified about
your move to ensure no one is missed. Consider using online address update services to
streamline the process.
In conclusion, moving, especially when buying property in Spain as a foreigner, can be
daunting, but a well-organized approach can make the process far more manageable. By
researching thoroughly, planning well in advance, and choosing reliable moving services, you
can minimize stress and avoid common pitfalls. Attention to details ensures a smoother
transition. Whether moving within Spain or internationally, these strategies are designed to keep
the experience as hassle-free as possible, allowing you to settle comfortably into your new
home.
Ready for a stress-free move to Spain?
At IPTW Consulting, we specialise in providing expert guidance for expats relocating to Spain. From navigating the legal and tax aspects of your move to finding the perfect property, we ensure your transition is as smooth as possible. Our tailored services are designed to help you every step of the way, making your relocation hassle-free.
Contact us today to get personalised advice and start planning your move to Spain with confidence. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will reach out to guide you through the entire process.