How to Move from the US to Australia
Moving across town is quite a task to undertake. Moving across the country is an even bigger task. If you want to try something really big, try moving to Australia from the US. You'll not only need a moving truck, but also a shipping container. Several laws and regulations exist that you must be aware of if you're taking the giant leap to the land down under. Preparation is key.
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Instructions
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Contact a different moving companies and get some quotes. When getting your quotes, keep in mind that the average three bedroom house will require at least a 20-foot shipping container. If you need a bigger container, get a quote for the 40-foot container. If you don't have a lot of stuff, you may be able to share with other people moving to Australia.
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Plan for your goods to arrive two to three weeks after you arrive in Australia. Talk to the movers and ask for a timeline so you'll know when to have your stuff packed and loaded. This way you'll have two weeks or so to find a house. When your stuff arrives and clears customs, you can unpack and feel at home.
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Make sure your passport is valid and has at least five years left until it expires. This will save you trouble down the line.
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Contact your insurance companies. Ask about transferring policies overseas, canceling policies or cashing them out. Make sure you keep a bank account active in the US. Ask a trusted person with a power of attorney to handle any issues that may arise. Make the proper arrangements with the IRS to handle any tax issues before you leave.
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Put your house on the market. How long it takes to sell depends on the housing market in your area. Aim at putting it up for sale about six weeks before you plan to move. Sell any large items you wish to get rid of before the big move, like cars, motorcycles and such.
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Gather all of these original documents: all full birth certificates, all marriage and/or divorce certificates, all diplomas and certifications from college and beyond, copies of all insurance documents, including life insurance and your will. You'll also want records of any companies or trusts still in your name after you leave the US, all receipts of large items paid in full by you, letters from banks to verify your credit and evidence of all investments. If you have kids, you'll need: school records, immunization certificates and academic records.
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Update your resume to Australian standards to aid in your job search. Also, set up an Australian email address as soon as possible.
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Open an Australian bank account upon arrival. Get some travelers checks and exchange some money when you arrive. Remember to keep a valid credit card open to help pay for incidentals when you first arrive.
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Tips & Warnings
It's a good idea to get a lawyer, as well. They can help update your will after you arrive in Australia. They can also help with any outstanding legal matters back in the US.
Don't forget to bring any current drug prescriptions and enough medication for about a month after arrival to Australia. Bring a copy of all your medical and dental records and keep a medical insurance policy in place until you start up an Australian policy.
Have a big going away party. It'll be nice to have one more big bash with your stateside friends and family.
