More and more British people are relocating to the USA with their employers as businesses become more internationally focussed. Moving to a new country is a major step but when your company handles the relocation they will have the expereince to ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible.

When being relocated to the USA from the United Kingdom by your company, then you will have little choice about where you are going to live since you will need to be within easy reach of your new offices. You may decide to live locally to take advantage of more time with your family or you may decide to commute to take advantage of better-value housing or a more pleasant environment.

But in either case, the decision is easier as you do not need to research numerous different areas. Going to an existing company location will give you access to advice from other colleagues already based there on the best locations for houses, schools, clubs, quality of life etc.  Try to take your family on a trip there first so you can all check out the new area together. If a trip is not possible, then the internet is a valuable tool for finding out more about both life in the States and in the specific area where you will be living – there are numerous expat networks, forums and websites full of useful information.

Company Relocation

Since company moves are usually for a fixed, temporary term, then you are likely to be renting out your own home back in the UK. You may need to prepare your home for letting, perhaps by redecorating, and you will also need to decide which pieces of furniture and possessions you plan to take with you. This will, obviously, depend on whether the property you will be renting in the States is furnished or not. If it is you may decide to put your own furniture in storage, if it is valuable or cherished, to avoid any damage by your tenants.  You may also need to obtain permission from your mortgage lender to let out you house.

Paperwork and documentation

It is vitally important that you sort out all necessary paperwork and documentation that you might need in your new country – this could include insurance certificates, mortgage statements, birth and marriage certificates etc. Also check that you will be able to use your UK credit cards in the USA and open an American bank account as soon as possible.

Family

If you have school-aged children it would also be worthwhile obtaining a personal report from their current school to hand over to the new American school, particularly since the education system is quite different there. If possible arrange your move to coincide with the start of a new school year or school term to make the transition slightly easier.

Healthcare

For all of the family ensure you have adequate private healthcare cover and find out where your local doctor and dentist are in your new area should they be needed in an emergency.

Belongings

The personal belongings that you are shipping to the USA will need to be packed well in advance of your moving date and you will need to find a secure and reputable self-storage london facility for those possessions remaining behind. If your company is paying the overseas shipping costs then take everything you think you might need in your new home and life as retrieving something from a UK-based self-storage unit may be difficult once you are in the States.

But, above all, take this opportunity to enjoy a new way of life in a new country with different experiences and new friends.