What are the pros and cons of moving to America?

After moving people’s belongings for over 30 years, we think we know a thing or two about moving abroad. Both personally, and professionally.

The Moving Doctor himself recently relocated to The Netherlands from the USA… and then moved back again.

So clearly, the USA has got something going for them.

When faced with the ultimatum, it’s a huge decision. Maybe you’ve been asked to relocate for work, or maybe the opportunity has presented itself to move on and you’re torn about going further afield.

Either way, the US will be a culture shock. So it’s time to weigh up the pros and cons.

Pro:

Relocating abroad is a new adventure
You know that feeling, when you go on holiday somewhere new, and you spend the whole time looking out of the window, taking in your temporary home? Well, picture that feeling, and times it by a hundred. That’s how it feels when you move abroad.

You’re not just presented with a new neighborhood or area, you’re presented with a whole new country. New cities, new areas, all yours to explore! And the size of the USA makes it feel like you’ve got multiple countries at your disposal!

The daunt and doubts you may have had before you landed are almost always washed away by that feeling of anticipation and excitement.

Con:

You may well have a culture shock
If you’re not used to moving, the move to the USA will naturally be a big shock. It may be a western country, but it’s completely different to all of Europe.

The biggest triggers are the ‘norms’ you’ve come to grow used to. From living situations to food, to the common European theme of life completely shutting down on a Sunday, generally, the US is much more convenient, but it takes some getting used to.

Initially, it’s almost inevitable that you’re going to miss old traditions, but the good news is, culture shock is only temporary. Soon, you’ll be making new memories and creating new traditions.

One thing you’ll notice – at least, I did upon coming here for the first time – is how BIG everything is. Huge cars, huge roads, huge houses on huge amounts of land. The rule seems to be, ‘the bigger the better’ and that applies to everything (including food portions).

Pro:

You’ll learn a LOT
Travel is arguably life’s most enriching experience, and through the courage of moving abroad, you’ll learn a lot about both yourself, and the world.

One of the best ways to get to know your new home is by exploring, going to museums, learning about its history. In this way, the lessons you learn abroad are very literal.

But on top of that, wherever you move to you’ll be meeting new people and having new experiences almost daily, both of which are also huge stimulators for mental growth.

Con:

Saving to Move Abroad
Moving abroad can be expensive… and balancing your finances on either side of your move is a big task.

If you’re moving for work, you should be given a relocation allowance to help cover the expenses of moving/flights/renting. However, if you’re moving of your own accord, it’s time to start looking into exchange rates asap.

If one of you is working and the other will be job hunting, it’s important to take into consideration the time-frame of it taking your other-half to find a job.

On top of this, is the move itself. Finding a trustworthy shipping company that won’t break the bank can seem like an impossible task.

But it doesn’t have to be!

If you’re looking to make the move cheaper, why not consider a ‘you pack’ alternative? Instead of having movers come in and handle all of your belongings, you’ll be able to pack and prioritize yourself.

Nobody knows your own items and their sentimental value the way you do, and by packing yourself, you also save a buck!

UPakWeShip offers different sized shipping options, from baggage to crates, to 20ft/40ft containers, all pack-it-yourself to keep costs down.

With almost all shipping options taking your belongings from door-to-door, you’ll know you’re in safe hands. And the best part is, UPakWeShip works on a no-hidden-costs price. What you’re quoted is what you’ll pay!

To discover your moving rate, take a look at our instant quotes from Europe to the US!

Moving elsewhere? A free custom quote will allow you to find out how we can help you.