Moving is stressful enough, let alone when your destination is a foreign country and we’re in the midst of a global pandemic. Whilst there is a talk of traffic light systems for holidaymakers, where does this system leave you when you are looking to move abroad?
Many countries have controlled the virus and have subsequently decided to reopen their borders, meaning that moving abroad during the pandemic may be possible, however it is important to take the right precautions.
Here at AVM Storage & Shipping, we have taken a look into the current legislation and advice from the UK government, to help you understand where you stand in terms of moving abroad during the pandemic.
Should you need more advice on an international move, make sure to speak to our team of experts today on 0800 833 932.
Firstly, Check Whether it is Safe
Of course, the safety of you and your family will be a priority. It is important to make sure that your chosen destination has reduced the spread of COVID-19 to manageable levels.
A good way to judge this is by checking the government’s list of countries of which are no longer presenting an unacceptably high risk to British people travelling abroad, and make sure that your new home country is safe.
It’s also a good idea to take a look at the data surrounding the country, and check what experts and authorities are saying.
Make Sure Your Move is Legal
Governments across the world are all continuously updating and changing their restrictions, especially when it comes to visitors from other countries.
Several nations who have dealt well with the pandemic, including New Zealand, Australia and Canada are not accepting flights from the UK at the moment.
Whether or not you have checked this previously, we suggest that you check again, as these regulations can change without notice.
The very last thing you want to face is not checking the legislation and regulations and finding yourself turned away at the border.
Following the Government Guidelines Correctly
It’s important to keep in mind if you are travelling, all of the current government guidelines, both within the UK and your destination country. Don’t let yourself get denied entry by not having a negative COVID-19 test or medical certificate with you.
Make sure to consult all official rules and follow them exactly.
Of course, you want to enjoy and discover your new home, however, it’s important that you follow all legislation. After all, you don’t want to appear irresponsible.
Keep Track of Your Health
It may seem obvious, however, if you or a family member has shown COVID-19 symptoms within the last seven days, it’s vital you all take tests and delay your move.
Should you continue to travel anyway, you may be refused on board the plane. Should you make it on the plane, you may be denied entry on the other side.
It’s important to remember that whilst travelling with COVID-19, you’re not just putting yourself and your family at risk, but also everyone else you come into contact with.
Follow All Rules Whilst Travelling
If you and your family are healthy and ready to fly, throughout the journey you should try and follow the government guidelines as closely as possible. These include;
- Avoid the busiest travelling times,
- Stay two metres from others where possible,
- Wash your hands regularly, for twenty seconds,
- Use online check-in services to avoid face-to-face interactions,
- Keep hand luggage to a minimum of essentials only,
- Remain seated around the airport and on the plane, where possible,
- Wear a mask at all times, only removing it to eat and drink.
Moving Abroad During the Pandemic: A Summary
It’s inevitable that during the current climate, moving abroad will be a lot more stressful than normal.
However, as long as you and your family members stay safe and sensible, it’s still possible.
By sticking to the above tips, the level of risk shouldn’t be much higher than day-to-day life. Yet there’s nothing to completely eliminate the risk at the moment, which is why moving at this moment in time is purely personal.
Here at AVM Storage & Shipping, our team of dedicated professionals will be able to deal with shipping your belongings overseas so you can relax, knowing that your belongings are safe and looked after. Get in touch today on 0800 833 932. Interested in any of our other services such as storage? We have a number of solutions for storage in Cheltenham, to enquire, call now.