Even with the best of conditions, relocations can be a stressful experience. If you are older, it can be particularly difficult.  Kokusai Express Japan suggest you check through all the lists below for help with the planning stage. When you’re moving into a smaller home overseas you must divide the tasks into groups that will make things more manageable.

Ask for the help and support you need

Don’t underestimate the difference it can make to have the assistance and reinforcement of others when you relocate. If you don’t have friends or family near to help out, consider booking the services of a professional company that specializes in moving to Japan. Or, even better a company that assists people to downsize when moving. Expert relocation services can ease the load by taking care of many aspects of the process. Professionals will understand your specific needs when it comes to moving into a smaller home overseas.

Think what kind of property will suit your needs best

When you decide moving into a smaller home overseas is te best choice for you, you’ll be happy to find that there are a variety of property options to choose from. We even offer project cargo services, so know that you can have your goods anywhere in the world when you decide to relocate. Below we have outlined some of the best choices to help you to decide which one could be right for you.

1. A smaller house or flat

If you’re relocating into a smaller home because your current one is simply too big for your needs, moving to a similar property that’s a more manageable size could be the answer. Think hard how many bedrooms you realistically need. Learn how to pack your bedroom here. Could you even make some rooms multifunctional? For example, you could combine your dining and living space.

2. Moving into a bungalow overseas

Bungalows can make a great home if you want to downsize. More specifically, their lack of stairs means they’re accessible and easy to navigate. Therefore, they work well for those who have mobility difficulties. In addition to this, they are usually pretty compact, so they’re easy and relatively cheap to maintain and heat.

3. Park homes

Because park homes can be bought for as little as £20,000, they tend to be a particularly practical choice for those looking to release equity from their existing properties. But they make more than financial sense, as well. Just like bungalows, they do not have stairs, which makes them particularly accessible. Additionally, they’re compact, which means maintaining and heating these properties is generally fairly easy and affordable. Finally, park homes are situated on sites that are very secure and have a tight-knit community feel. All of which makes them ideal for anyone who’s adjusting, for example, to a life outside of the workforce.

Contact several local moving companies and talk to them about their business

Do they have experience in helping other people downsize? Keep in mind that price probably shouldn’t be the priority here. Instead, focus on finding drivers and movers who are careful and skillful. Look for a company that is a member of The American Moving & Storage Association and/or the Better Business Bureau, which means they’re licensed and, therefore – reliable.

• Make sure your chosen company has adequate insurance to cover damage or loss to any possessions. Make sure you ask for and receive a detailed breakdown of costs, including overtime rates if things run late.
• Inform the movers on any items needing special packing or treatment. For instance, if you have valuables or fragile antiques, large items that may need to be dismantled and reassembled, or items which could be difficult to maneuver. Don’t forget to list the items that you’ll be moving into a smaller home overseas personally.

Do the planning in advance when moving into a smaller home overseas

• Make a floor plan of the new home, as precisely as possible. This will help you make arrangements for where things will go. Start with more cumbersome items, such as furniture, and work your way down the list. It is a terrific way to later streamline with the packing and de-cluttering.
• If possible, visit your new property before moving to double-check measurements. Use the opportunity to verify if there’s room for your curtains, furniture, appliances, etc.
• Try to estimate how many boxes you need and which sizes, but it’s best to consult professional movers. They can also help you with advice about packaging for items that may not fit neatly or safely into boxes. Movers usually opt for bubble wrapping these smaller, odd-shaped items.
• Taking the time to plan your relocation will allow you time to adjust as you go. For example, if you underestimated the number of supplies you need, you’ll have time to buy some more before moving day.

Have you decided on moving into a smaller home overseas?

Downsizing is becoming progressively popular, especially among the senior community. 48% of pensioners are thinking about relocating to smaller homes. And, financial experts and real estate agents only expect this number to rise.

Sorting through your precious possessions and memorabilia and decluttering may be the most challenging part of the whole moving process. Many of these belongings will be of sentimental value, and even the idea of getting rid of them may trigger strong emotions.

• Try to get someone to do this task with you. A friend who you’re close to can be there to support you if you’re finding this process difficult.
• Be realistic about items you need in the new home and go for quality over quantity. If you find you need some of these things, consider putting them into storage. Otherwise, arrange the sale of any items of value that you can’t take to the new home. Items such as antique or vintage furniture, rugs, paintings, or other collectibles.
• Kokusai Express Japan professionals have a lot more tips and tricks to packing and preparing to move house so contact us now! Our expert movers will help you on-site with much more useful advice about decluttering and packing your possessions.