How much you need to save to move from the US to these 5 popular countries
Thinking of ditching the US for another part of the world? While the prospect of moving somewhere new is exciting - whether you're doing it to experience new cultures, better weather, or for a cheaper cost of living - it's not as simple as hopping on a plane and starting a new life. In fact, it's the opposite. Depending on where you're moving to, there are so many things to think about, from visas to accommodation to how much the upheaval is going to cost you (Picture: Getty Images)
But, if you are set on leaving the US for pastures new, it's best to be prepared. Which is why we've listed five popular countries along with the average expense of getting there. (This includes shipping or flight costs, apartment prices, and work visas, to name a few.) Ready to start your new adventure? Best get saving! (Picture: Getty Images)
How much does it cost to move from the US to the UK?
Before we get into it, this is an average estimate. Different parts of the UK are more affordable, with London undoubtedly being the most expensive. But, according to moving company Sirelo, the typical cost of moving from the US to the UK is between $6,300 and $14,800. That's a pretty big jump, right? This is all to do with whether you're moving from the West or East Coast, or how many of your belongings you're planning on taking with you. Americans will also need a visa if the plan is to live long-term in the country. The government website has a handy page that helps you check if you need a visa, and if so, what kind you require/are eligible for (Picture: Getty Images)
How much does it cost to move from the US to Australia?
Heading Down Under? Here's how much it's going to cost you: Roughly around $10,500. Again, this can decrease or increase depending on the distance you're moving, the size of your move, and any other additional services you require, like storage or packing. For context: West Coast residents (i.e. Los Angeles) are likely looking at $3,100 to $10,600, the higher figures being representative of larger moves and vice versa. If you're leaving the East Coast behind (i.e. New York), these numbers look more like $3,500 and $11,800. Both estimates are based on sea freight to Sydney and vary in terms of how long it takes your belongings to arrive. Depending on the size of your shipment, this can range between five to 11 weeks (Picture: Getty Images)
How much does it cost to move from the US to Italy?
La Dolce Vita is calling! If you're desperate to ditch the rat race and live a more laid-back, Mediterranean lifestyle, Italy should be on your bingo card. As per the moving company Earth Relocation, the cost to move to Italy from the US starts from around $6,400 and increases to $18,000. Included in this pricing are professional movers, visa applications, initial landlord payments, and potential extra expenses. How you transport your belongings has a direct impact on the price: shipping is cheaper due to the longer wait, whereas air freight is more expensive. But, you can guarantee your goods a lot earlier. Movers also charge by volume and weight. US residents will need to obtain an Italian Schengen visa and provide the right documents, too (Picture: Getty Images)
How much does it cost to move from the US to Thailand?
Dreaming of exotic beaches, piña coladas, and constant sunshine? Maybe Thailand should be your future home. Before you book those one-way flights to Bangkok, let's get an idea of how much you'll need to save beforehand. Most belongings go to Laem Chabang, a busy port around 100 km from Bangkok. Your things will then be transported by truck to wherever you move in the country. From Los Angeles, moving company MoveHub predicts it will cost $1,277 based on the port-to-port transportation of a 20ft container of used furniture worth $40,000. This is the typical value of the contents of a three-bedroom home. The expected delivery time is 23 to 28 days. From New York, the price is a little less at $1,100, with a delivery time of 24 to 29 days. Flying costs more, and figures have been provided based on 250kg of belongings worth around $40,000. From New York to Bangkok, the price is $3,644. From LA, it's $3,539. Both take between two to four days (Picture: Getty Images)
Household goods aren't the only things you need to think about. If you're planning on working in Thailand, you need a work permit. The legal document states your current occupation, position, and job description for the Thai company you've secured a job with or are planning to work for. To obtain a work permit, a non-immigrant or resident visa is required. This can be applied for via the Thai embassy. You must have one before you travel to the country (Picture: Getty Images)
How much does it cost to move from the US to Sweden?
From Southeast Asia to Scandinavia, the two nations couldn't be more culturally different. And neither could the weather. But, both Thailand and Sweden offer a good quality standard of living. Sweden also consistently ranks highly in the World Happiness Report, but is often pipped to the post by its neighbour, Finland. Alas, if it's Sweden you're heading to, Sirelo estimated a moving price from the US to range between $4,000 to $15,000. Again, this is based on distance, shipment volume, season, container type, and other additional services. If you're moving to Sweden with your whole family, it's likely you'll require a container. So, say you need a whole container to send your goods to a three-bedroom house by sea freight, expect costs to jump between $8,000 and $15,000. For a shared container heading to a one-bedroom flat, it's cheaper. Specifically around $4,000 to $8,000 (Picture: Getty Images)
Tips to make a move cheaper
If you want to cut costs wherever possible, various methods and hacks can cut your budget massively. These include:
• Declutter: Don't wear it? Bin it. Don't use it? Get rid. Reduce your belongings as much as possible, down to the things you really need. This will save you freight money.
• Pack yourself: If you can pack your goods yourself, including the fragile stuff, it'll save you from having to pay a professional packer. But only do this if you're sure, especially when it comes to sentimental items.
• Travel off-peak: Moving during peak season, such as summer, will skyrocket your travel costs. Instead, try and move during the shoulder seasons to reduce excessive spending.
• Use comparison websites: Don't just choose the first moving service you come across. Do your research and use comparison sites, as they'll help you find the best deals (Picture: Getty Images)
