Moving to Israel can be a life-changing experience, filled with excitement, opportunity, and meaningful change. Whether you’re making aliyah, relocating for work, or joining family, you’ll need to prepare well. A big part of this preparation is packing. However, many people underestimate how complicated packing for an international move can be. Any miscalculation in moving to Israel will cost time, cause damage, or create unnecessary stress. That is why knowing what not to do is as important as knowing what to bring.
1. Packing Without a Plan
Don’t just proceed and begin stuffing items in boxes. Always begin with a plan. Create a list of items to pack, set deadlines for each room, and utilize a timeline. This will not only conserve time but also prevent last-minute rushes. Piling up items randomly means you’ll exhaust energy and have to repack subsequently.
2. Not Sorting Your Items First
Sort before packing. Decide what to donate, sell, or throw away. Don’t move unused or damaged items to your new home. Israel uses different voltage systems, outlets, and the presence of items. Thus, think twice about which electronics or appliances are worth moving.
3. Using Low-Quality Packing Materials
You may think that old newspapers and boxes suffice. But boxes are picked up many times during overseas transit for long periods of time. Delicate or worn-out materials won’t last. Invest some money in heavy-duty boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and label tools.
4. Not Having an Essentials Bag
Pack a carry-on bag with all the things you’ll need as soon as you arrive. This will include medicine, documents, chargers, toiletries, and a spare change of clothes. Because you might have to wait several days for your shipment to arrive in the case of moving to Israel, it is a good idea to have these things with you.
5. Overpacking Boxes
Don’t pack boxes to the top. Bulky boxes are harder to lift and are apt to break. Pack light items like bedding or clothes in big boxes. Use small boxes for heavy items like books. Stop each box at 45 pounds or fewer for safety.
6. Not Leaving Gaps in Boxes
Open areas can cause the objects to slide and get destroyed. Fill gaps with packing paper, towels, or bubble wrap. If you shake the box, nothing will budge. This simple tip saves your objects on the long trip to Israel.
7. Packing Prohibited Items
Some items cannot be exported. These are aerosols, cleaning material, perishables, and foliage. Reference the list of restricted items for Israel at all times. Get guidance from your mover to avoid wasting time preparing items that will never clear customs.
8. Not Labeling Your Boxes
If your boxes are not labeled, unpacking is a nightmare. Legibly label the contents and the destination room on each box. If possible, color-code your labels. This is less confusing for movers and keeps you organized when you arrive.
9. Thinking You Can Do Everything Yourself
You may want to pack everything yourself. Packing for such a big move, though, is tiresome and time-consuming. Having friends over to help is okay. Professional packers are even better. Export Depot International is one company that has helped hundreds of professionals and families move effortlessly. Through their heritage as an international moving pioneer, they set a standard for thorough and customized packing services.
10. Not Selecting the Right Mover
Don’t just pick the cheapest option. Choose movers who have experience with international relocations. If you’re based in North America, several Canada moving companies offer reliable services for moving to Israel. They understand the paperwork, timelines, and customs process. Always get quotes, check reviews, and verify licenses.
Relocating to Israel is a life-altering decision. Make it simpler by avoiding these most common packing errors. Plan in advance, pack wisely, and cope with professionals who know the exact problems involved in international relocation. If you are from Canada, employing moving companies can be your ultimate partners in making the relocation a success. Plan ahead, stay calm, and your move to a new home will be everything you dreamed it would be.
