Key Tips Shared Amid Growing Number of Migrants Moving To New Zealand

With the rise of people looking to move to New Zealand, it is essential to be fully prepared to ensure a stress-free move. As of March 2023, New Zealand sees over 160,000 migrant arrivals yearly, up almost 200% from the same time in March 2022.

However, shipping to New Zealand can be challenging as the available shipment options, cost, and legal regulations require a professional moving company to facilitate the smooth transition. Having a reliable and experienced team on one’s side can make moving to New Zealand much less intimidating and more assured for those considering the major change in their lives.

Kimberlee Fenn, founder of International Mover, says, “First, consider the services of professional movers who can help with everything from the packing and shipping of your household items to navigating customs and logistics. With the right guidance, you can handle all the tasks with ease and make it easier for the moving crew to ship your items and arrange them just as you wish at the other end of your journey. Professional advice from the experts can help you overcome the stress of the move and ensure your belongings arrive safely at your destination.”

Fragile items should be given extra care as they face the prospect of damage during transit. The size of the items will determine the containers in which they are packed and how much volume the entire shipment takes up. Bulky items such as furniture should be properly disassembled at the start and organised so that they can be skillfully put together at the destination by the arrival crew.

Homeowners are advised to create a budget and start saving early on. The costs that need to be considered include visas, flights, shipping belongings, and initial accommodation. They may also need to account for unexpected expenses that may be needed due to emergencies.

“There is also a lot of paperwork involved,” says Kimberlee. “You need the requisite visas for yourself and all your family members who will be traveling with you. Keep other important documentation such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and medical records on hand.”

Apart from the personal paperwork, it's vital for homeowners to familiarize themselves with the country's import regulations. The New Zealand Customs Service website is a valuable resource to find information about customs procedures, duties, taxes, and restricted or prohibited items. A careful review of the relevant guidelines is essential to ensure compliance and avoid hassles when the items arrive at the destination.

When shipping goods to New Zealand, future residents need to complete a customs declaration form. This document provides customs authorities with essential information about the shipment. Accurate and honest declarations of the contents and their values are crucial to avoid legal issues.

“At the end of the day,” says Kimberlee, “you can avoid all the hassle by trusting an experienced professional mover with your belongings. Many of the best movers will take care of all the packaging and reassembling for you as well as provide guidance with filling out the right customs documentation. So, picking the right mover is the biggest step in ensuring that your transition to your new life is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.”