Moving Abroad – A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to move abroad? While moving out may seem simple, it requires careful logistical planning. Relocating to another country is a real challenge — you often need to leave your apartment without being able to take all your belongings with you. So how can you organize your move? What should you take abroad? How to pack and what to remember? Most importantly, where should you store your furniture and other possessions? A storage unit is a great solution — a safe place to leave everything you can’t take with you, for as long as you need.

Moving Abroad – Paperwork and Formalities

Moving abroad is a big step that should begin with preparing the right documents and completing several necessary tasks. What should you do first?

• Start by organizing the required paperwork. If you’re leaving Poland, you must officially deregister your residence by submitting the “Notification of Departure Outside the Territory of the Republic of Poland.” Depending on your destination, make sure your ID card or passport is valid.
• Next, secure your well-being abroad. Obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which entitles you to medical care across the European Economic Area. This is especially important during the period between deregistration in Poland and registration in your new country of residence. Accidents or sudden illnesses can happen at any time — even before you officially settle down.
• When planning your move, also research local formalities in your destination country. These may vary greatly and often determine your right to temporary or permanent residence. Always rely on official government sources to ensure you’re using up-to-date information.

Moving to Another Country – Transport

While paperwork may seem like the hardest part, organizing the logistics can be just as stressful. Moving abroad requires sacrifices and planning. So how should you pack?

• One of the biggest mistakes is trying to transport furniture and large household items. It’s usually better to leave them behind — they’re bulky, expensive to ship, and often unnecessary. Flying or taking a bus limits your luggage capacity, and hiring a moving company can be very costly.
• In many countries, furniture and household goods are cheaper than in Poland. You can often buy high-quality second-hand pieces for much less than the cost of international transport. Therefore, shipping your furniture abroad usually doesn’t make financial sense.
• If you’re moving long-term, consider renting a fully furnished apartment or house. That way, you don’t have to worry about transporting or storing furniture.

What to Remember – Finding Storage Space

Before leaving, it’s a good idea to find a storage unit where you can keep most of your belongings. This is especially useful if your items are valuable or have sentimental meaning. Safe and organized storage ensures that when you return, everything will be ready to use again.

Self-storage facilities offer clean, secure, and flexible units where you can store anything you can’t take abroad. No matter how long you’ll be away or what kind of items you have, Stokado self-storage is a perfect solution.

• Each Stokado unit has controlled temperature and humidity levels, ensuring your belongings remain in perfect condition — protected from damage, moisture, or mold.
• The facilities are monitored and protected 24/7, giving you complete peace of mind. You can rent storage space for as long as you need — weeks, months, or even years — with flexible terms.
• Stokado self-storage locations can be found in many Polish cities, and you’ll have access to your unit at any time, day or night.

Packing for Your Move Abroad

What should you take with you? The less, the better! Focus on essentials such as documents, clothing, hygiene items, your laptop, and work tools. Large items are usually unnecessary. The only thing you should take plenty of — is money. Even if you already have a job lined up, it’s wise to have financial security.

Make a detailed checklist of what to bring and research prices in your new location — some things may be cheaper abroad, while others might be worth bringing from Poland. You can also ask people who already live in your destination country for advice.

If you’re moving with pets, research the local regulations carefully. Countries like the UK and those in Scandinavia have strict animal transport laws — missing vaccines or incorrect paperwork could result in your pet being quarantined or even euthanized.

Settling in Abroad

Remember that Poles live in almost every Western and Northern European country. In many places, there are well-organized Polish communities that can offer practical help and support. Choosing a location with an active Polish community can make settling in much easier.

You’ll also get help with housing, paperwork, and adapting to a new culture. Still, it’s worth learning the local language and gradually embracing the new environment.

• Learn the language. Even basic knowledge helps, but the more fluent you become, the easier life abroad will be.
• Be patient. Adjusting to a new country takes time — stay open and positive.
• Engage with others. Meet locals, try new foods, and explore new experiences to feel at home faster.

Final Thoughts

Moving abroad takes time and planning. It’s important to stay balanced when deciding what to bring. Leave furniture and bulky items behind — just make sure they’re stored properly. With Stokado Self Storage, your belongings will stay clean, dry, and safe until you return.