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Guide On How do People Live In India

#ExpatLifeInIndia isn’t simple. They often have a difficult time adjusting to the surroundings. But once over the initial culture shock, living here in India is a memorable experience.

Located in South Asia, India is the seventh largest country in the world. It’s the world’s second most populated country and is the largest democracy. It has many different religious and ethnic groups. The most followed religion is Hinduism, which comprises of 80% of the population, while Islam comprises of 14%, followed by Christianity at 2.3% and then there are other religions such as Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

The country is known for its culture, customs and mannerisms which are very different from those in the west and, at first, might seem overwhelming to foreigners.

India is a rapidly developing country with ample job opportunities in several industries. This results in increased work opportunities not only for locals but also for expats.

Guide On How Do People Live In India | Writer Relocations

India’s expat community are in a wide range of professions such as teaching, marketing, sales etc. They are also artists, spiritualists, CEO’s and executives in international corporations.

As the opportunities to relocate to India are increasing, here is an informational guide to make your transition seamless and easy.

Types of Visas

Expats moving to India require an employment visa. The Indian visa application processing time usually differs from country to country and can range from a few days to many weeks.

Guide On How Do People Live In India | Writer Relocations

There are mainly 3 types of visas – A tourist visa, employment visa and business visa. People may apply for one of them depending upon their purpose of visit.

Writer Relocations provides visa and immigration services for India along with many other countries across the globe. You can get in touch with us for further assistance.

Tourist Visa

Expats may apply for a tourist visa when they simply want to visit a friend or when planning a vacation. They are generally granted a six-month visa. Most foreign nationals can apply for their visa at a VFS Application Centre in their home country.

A few countries are also granted visa on arrival under “Tourist Visa on Arrival Scheme” started by India to promote tourism in the country.

Employment Visa

Foreign nationals may apply for an employment visa when they are hired to work for an Indian registered organization or when they’re transferred internally by a company to India. They are granted this visa only when they produce a proof of a job offer. They may also have to produce a proof of their professional qualification.

Business Visa

This visa is granted to those who wish to start a business in India. It’s generally issued for a period of six months.

Registering at FRRO

An expat has to register with Foreigners Regional Registration Office if their visa is valid for more than 180 days. This is one of the first things they need to do as they require to register within 2 weeks post their arrival. The documents expats will need to include are application forms, passport copies, passport-size photos, a copy of their visa, a letter of guarantee from an Indian host or sponsor, and proof of residence.

Climate in India

India is a vast country and the weather varies from region to region. However, there are 4 main seasons: Summer which lasts from March to May, Monsoon from June to October, Post-monsoon from October to November and Winters from November to February. Northern cities like New Delhi witness extreme heat in summer and cold in winter, while coastal areas like Mumbai have a more consistent tropical climate with heavy monsoons.

Guide On How Do People Live In India | Writer Relocations

 

Languages spoken in India

Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India. About 30% of Indians nationwide speak Hindi. As India was a British colony English is one of the official languages here and is commonly spoken at work. There are more other regional languages spoken in different parts of India. Also, due to tourism shopkeepers, drivers also have started speaking English.

Cost of living

The cost of living varies from one city to another. Cities like New Delhi, Mumbai are much more expensive as compared to Bangalore and Kolkata. According to Mercer Cost of Living Survey Mumbai and New Delhi were ranked at 57 and 99 respectively, out of 209 cities studied which make them quite costly.

But Majorly expats have a good standard of living here, as they can afford servants and chauffeurs unlike in the west. Also, the cost of most things, including entertainment, education, housing, and food is lower than that in western countries.

Finding an Accommodation

Ideally, your employer should arrange your stay. But, if this isn’t the case then you have to look for a property agent who could help you find a house. Once you shortlist a property don’t forget to make a lease agreement with your landlord. They will often try to convince you to unofficially rent the property. But insist on a proper agreement as you’ll need them for future paperwork. Landlords may also ask for a security deposit, which could be of about two or three months’ rent. An Agent’s commission could be half a month’s rent.

Dealing with Taxation

Taxation in India depends on the residential status of a person. The residential status is determined completely on his or her physical presence in India regardless of the purpose of stay.

As per their stay in India during the financial year, Expats fall into three tax categories which will determine their taxable income.

Guide On How Do People Live In India | Writer Relocations

The three categories are

  • Resident and Ordinarily Resident (ROR)
  • Resident but Not Ordinarily Resident (RNOR)
  • Non-Resident (NR)

How to determine which category they fall into?

Rule 1

An Individual is a resident of India if he/she: Is in India for a period of 182 days or more, or within four years preceding that year has been in India for 365 days or more and is in India for a period of 60 days or more.

If the individuals stay does not satisfy the above requirements then they are considered as a non-resident. Alternatively, if by the above rule, individuals prove to be residents than they are further categorized as ROR or RNOR

To determine whether the individual is Resident and Ordinarily Resident (ROR) or Resident but Not Ordinary Resident (RNOR), we need to apply the following rule.

Rule 2

An Individual who is a Resident is a RNOR in India if he/she

Has been a NR in India for nine out of ten years preceding that year, or

Has been outside of India for 729 days or less during the seven previous years preceding that year.

Foreign nationals who work in India at a stretch are considered RNOR for the first two years and ROR from the third year and will be taxed in India on their worldwide income.

Also, depending on whether they fall into RNOR, ROR, NR category accordingly their portion of income is taxed.

Job Opportunities

India is one of the largest economies in the world. Especially the IT sector in India is a fast-growing industry, creating a lot of job opportunities. Even though thousands of students graduate every year, there is still a lot of requirement of skilled professionals in booming sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals research, manufacturing, aeronautics and consumer electronics. This gives expats the opportunity to work in India. On the other hand, foreign companies are outsourcing work to India creating senior level opportunities for expats.

Healthcare Facilities

Due to change in climate, expats tend to fall sick more often. They are suggested to always carry their own drinking water, as having water outside can lead to an upset stomach or fever. They should also be careful with eating out. Indian food is very spicy and oily compared to most other cuisines. Foreigners might take some time adjusting to this, and the sudden change in taste of food might result in falling sick more often.

Public hospitals in India are improving, but private healthcare facilities offer more eligible and timely services, particularly in major cities.

Travelling and Transportation

Finding public transport in India is not really an issue. People mostly use taxis, auto rickshaws, public buses and local trains as their mode of transport in cities. Introduction of metro trains and radio taxis in most major cities has made travelling a lot more convenient and simpler these days.

With increasing job opportunities, authorities are constantly looking for better ways to develop and thus make lives simpler for locals as well as expats.

About Writer Relocations

Writer Relocations started as a Mumbai-based packing and moving company in 1953. 60+ years later, we’re India’s premier moving company handling all types of moves – India MovingInternational MovingVIP MovingOrientation ServicesFine Art MovingOffice MovesHospitality LogisticsCommercial Moving.

Trusted by over 5 million people, you can rest assured that moving with Writer Relocations will always be a stress-free experience.

Are you planning to move to India? Get a FREE moving quote from Writer Relocations now. Or call us @022-334-91787.

You may also want to check out the Case Studies on International Relocation, along with the FAQs, and Moving Tools & Tips that we have put together for the best moving and packing experience.

Have you ever visited India? Are you an expat already living in India? What is it that you like the most about life in this country? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Fun Things To Do In Mumbai
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Fun Things To Do In Mumbai

Are you someone who has grown up dreaming about living in America when you grow up?

America is known as the land of opportunities. Every year, several people move to America to make their dreams come true.

Are you moving to North America? Moving there for your dream job? Or moving there to explore new opportunities?

Whatever the reason, shifting to a new country is a major step in your life. To ensure a stress-free move, you need a lot of planning and preparation. To make sure you settle down in the new country without much fuss, you need to learn about the country you are moving to.

Expert international movers at Writer Relocations can help you have a stress-free move. Learn more about our international home shifting services here.

The most popular countries in North America that people move to are USA, Canada or Mexico. We’ve put together destination guides for each of these countries, to help you settle down easily.

1. Moving to USA?

The United States of America is the fourth largest country in the world. It is also the third most populated country in the world globally.

USA is a country of immigrants and the land of hope and opportunities. Every year, a lot of people from all parts of the world move to the US in hopes of making a better life for themselves and their families.

Are you moving to the United States of America, too? Here’s a detailed destination guide on moving to North America to help you settle down in USA easily.

2. Shifting to Canada?

Canada is the second largest country in the world. It is a multi-cultural society and emphasizes on equality. Canada supports immigrants and has many policies that make their transition into Canadian citizens very easy.

Canada has the highest number of Indian immigrants in the world.

Are you planning to move to Canada? Moving there for a new job? Do read this detailed destination guide to know about the country before moving to Canada.

3. Relocating to Mexico?

Due to its close proximity to USA, a lot of people migrate to Mexico every year. The cost of living in Mexico is around 30% – 50% lower than that in USA. Mexico has one of the strongest economies in North America.

Learn more about the country in this detailed destination guide about the life of expats before moving to Mexico.

Shifting home internationally isn’t only about the move. We understand that there are several other things to worry about.

How will you find a home in the new city? How will you manage your finances? Where will the children go to school? How will you adjust to life in a country you know little about?

Our area orientation services for international move have been designed to minimize disruption when you move home to another country.

Writer Relocations is one of India’s oldest and most trusted moving company. We’ve moved 500,000 people just like you to 190 nations. Having spent 63 years in the moving business, you can be sure to have a stress-free and damage-free move when you hire Writer Relocations for your home move. We specialise in international home movesoffice shiftingfine art moving and commercial relocation.

Are you moving to USA, Canada or Mexico? Hire Writer Relocations for a stress-free and damage-free move. Get your FREE home moving quote to experience the Gold Standard in moving.

Know someone who is moving to a country in North America, soon? Share this article with them on social media. Or email this article to them.

Have you moved to USA, Canada or Mexico, recently? How was the experience? Are you planning to move soon? What are your biggest concerns and worries? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. We’d be happy to know your thought and solve your worries.

Categories Blog

Best Middle East Countries to Work and Live In

If things aren’t going as well as you hoped career-wise in your home country, it may be high time to consider exploring other countries. Not only do you expand your reach and gain more opportunities, but you also open yourself up to more diverse prospects.

But before you partake in an international relocation to expand your career (or even to switch directions), you need to do some research first about your best options.

To help you get started, here are the four best countries in the Middle East and the reasons why they are feasible career relocation options:

1. United Arab Emirates

Composed of seven emirates, the United Arab Emirates is home to two of the Middle East’s most promising cities in terms of career progress: Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Besides being the country’s federal capital, Abu Dhabi is also the biggest and wealthiest emirate in the UAE. There, you’ll find most of the energy and infrastructure-related jobs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Besides that, it’s the heart of the Emirati culture and the sporting capital. It is home to world-famous tourist attractions, like the Louvre Museum located in Saadiyat Island and the F1 track on Yas Island. It is also well-known as the source of 10% of the country’s international oil reserves.

Meanwhile, Dubai a.k.a. the most populous city in the UAE promises bountiful opportunities for those with a knack for business and entrepreneurship.

Although relatively less endowed with natural resources than other emirates, Dubai has established a robust, healthy business culture. Its reputation as both a tourist and commercial hub has also earned it a well-deserved applause from the international community.

Considered the most Westernised of all Middle Eastern hubs, Dubai is home to more than 3.79 million residents (as of 2024), with over 90% being expatriates from different parts of the world. The city has also ranked 24th in terms of the Quality of Urban Living Index, which is higher than the global average. Many respondents also deem it to be one of the safest cities globally, next to Tokyo and Singapore. If you are considering moving to UAE, Writer Relocations can help!

2. Qatar

With a gross national income per capita of USD 63,428.36 in 2022, Qatar continues to be a promising relocation destination for foreigners seeking better career opportunities in a thriving economy.

The nation is going through massive infrastructural development with a lifestyle that is almost as liberal as its neighbor, the UAE. The increasing prices of oil and gas also make it one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

Doha, Qatar’s capital city, continues to be a favorable destination for expatriates, consistently ranking well in global expat city rankings. Nearly all expats (92%) here also see Doha as the easiest place to settle in, even without learning to speak the local language. Most respondents also report that it’s easy to find a house in the city, with 73% positive ratings, though only a quarter of the respondents deem properties there affordable. If you are considering moving to Qatar, Writer Relocations can help!

3. Bahrain

Moving to Bahrain is also worth considering, especially if you’re from the Western hemisphere. While not as popular as the UAE, Bahrain has been attracting expat workers since the 1980s and 1990s. Here, you can expect a warm and welcoming expat community that people typically crave when starting a life in a new country.

Salary-wise, the country remains an attractive destination for expatriates, with competitive salary offerings and a favorable work-life balance. Bahrain is also well established as a finance hub, particularly Islamic finance.

With its 33 islands, Bahrain is the largest archipelago in the Middle East. Its geography has long blessed the country with a profitable oil- and gas-based economy, although it continues to diversify its industries. Bahrain’s labor law sets a maximum workweek of 48 hours, typically over six days, with shorter hours during Ramadan.

4. Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has one of the largest populations in the Middle East. It is considered a key growth market, paving the way for a significant expatriate workforce to seek a better life in the country.

From stellar living facilities to modern educational institutions, Saudi Arabia is a prime destination for individuals not only seeking progress in their careers but also improvement in their way of life.

Most job opportunities here are linked to the nation’s oil and gas industry, though Saudi Arabia is actively diversifying its economy, creating opportunities in tourism, entertainment, and technology to reduce its reliance on oil.

Take note, however, that you must first find a job before moving to Saudi Arabia, but there are other visa options available, such as investor visas or family sponsorships, depending on the purpose of relocation.

5. Kuwait

Kuwait is known for its thriving oil industry, but it is also developing in sectors like finance, healthcare, and construction. With a high-income economy and a tax-free salary structure, Kuwait offers a comfortable lifestyle for expatriates.

The country boasts a relatively liberal social atmosphere compared to other Gulf countries, making it an attractive option for professionals from around the world. Its strategic location and growing international trade also make it a potential hub for career development in logistics and infrastructure.

6. Turkey

Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, offers a dynamic and diverse market for expatriates. Key industries such as manufacturing, construction, tourism, and information technology are rapidly expanding, especially in cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

Turkey’s strategic geopolitical position and its push for modernization have opened up many opportunities for skilled professionals. With a rich cultural heritage and relatively affordable cost of living, Turkey has become a popular choice for those seeking new career opportunities in an international setting.

7. Israel

Israel is a global leader in technology and innovation, especially in sectors like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and biotech. The country’s strong startup ecosystem often referred to as the “Startup Nation” makes it a haven for entrepreneurs and tech-savvy professionals.

Cities like Tel Aviv are known for their vibrant tech scene, while other sectors like agriculture, medicine, and defense also provide lucrative opportunities. With a high standard of living and an innovative work environment, Israel is ideal for expatriates looking to work in cutting-edge industries.

8. Jordan

Jordan, while smaller in size, plays a vital role in the region with its stable political environment and growing sectors such as tourism, IT, and healthcare. Amman, the capital city, has become a hub for startups, particularly in the technology and innovation fields.

Jordan’s welcoming attitude toward expatriates, coupled with its efforts to improve infrastructure and education, makes it an attractive destination for professionals looking for career growth in a stable and culturally rich environment.

Move with Ease

Relocating to develop your career is a significant undertaking you need to prepare for thoroughly. Besides finding out your best options, you also need to understand how you can settle in your intended new place.

Writer Relocations can help you move with ease.

Send us a message for more information.

Tips to Choose a Corporate Relocation Service
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Tips to Choose a Corporate Relocation Service

With the onset of economic liberalization and globalization in India in 1991, many international companies started investing in the country. And now, more than 25 years later many Indian companies have offices in countries across the world. This change in economic conditions gave birth to international relocation companies in India. Some of these companies specialize in corporate relocation services.

Initially, the companies providing relocation services began with the basic packing and moving service. They would provide services to move office and home equipment. Nowadays, with the growth in this industry and rising competition, these companies are providing additional services such as selecting a home, selecting a school for children and so on. So, if you were to choose from one of the international relocation companies in India, the parameters today will be a lot different.

Tips to choose a reliable service provider

Insurance on belongings, testimonials from past clients, experience in international relocation especially in the intended destination country and a background check of the service provider, these are some of the factors you need to consider when choosing a service provider.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right corporate relocation service company:

The good old checklist:

The initial step, even before researching international relocation companies in India, is to prepare a checklist of the employees’ requirements. Talk to your fellow employees, who are to be relocated, and understand their requirements. Prepare a detailed checklist of these requirements.

Multiple source shortlisting:

The best way to narrow down your list of corporate relocation service providers is to consult multiple sources. The fastest way to search for a relocation company is with the help of the internet. A simple search will give you hundreds of results. Try using relevant keywords to narrow down your search. For instance, instead of searching ‘corporate relocation companies’ use a keyword like ‘international corporate relocation company in Singapore’. Using specific keywords, such as the name of the intended destination will help you narrow your search. Ask for suggestion from peers. Nothing helps to make a decision than inputs from people we know. They will share their experiences and also bring up some aspects you may never have thought of.

Testimonials are a must:  

Once you have shortlisted a few corporate relocation companies make sure to get some customer testimonials. Look beyond the testimonials mentioned on the company website. Try and get real reviews. A thorough customer feedback will definitely help you select the right company. When selecting customers who have used the company’s services, check with the ones who availed the services five years back and the ones who availed the service recently. This will help you to see if the company has improved or deteriorated its services over time.

Price alone can’t decide: 

Don’t let price be the only deciding factor. The best services never come cheap. Check the overall package provided by the company. Compare it with your checklist and ensure all or most boxes are ticked off.

Summary

Research is very important whether you are trying to find a provider of corporate relocation services or one of the reputed international relocation companies in India.

Author Bio

Neha works for a corporate relocation service provider. She also writes blogs on how to select one of the reputed corporate or international relocation companies in India.

Office Moving Tips for a Business Relocation
Categories Blog

Office Moving Tips for a Business Relocation

Companies relocate their offices mainly because they’re expanding for more business and customers, downsizing for efficiency or simply because their lease is getting over. This time of transition is when businesses are at maximum risk. Apart from fear of drop in sales and complaining customers, there are also chances of frail office items like hard drives, laptops, files, data servers, etc. getting damaged during transit.

To save you from all these troubles, we have put together 9 tips that will help you move your office smoothly

1) Plan your move in advance

Start planning your move at least 3 to 6 months in advance before the actual moving time arrives. This will give you the time to get into the nitty-gritty of the move. Once you know what your new office is like, plan your interior accordingly. Decide how you’re going to arrange furniture and other equipments in the new place.

 

2) Inform your employees

Let your office employees know well in advance about the move. They might want to finish some major work before the move or simply prepare themselves for this change.

 

3) Hire a professional mover

You need to be careful while choosing commercial movers and packers. Check whether the company has executed such office moves before. You should also have a set of questions which you may want to ask them. This will help you choose the right moving company that carefully moves your sensitive office equipment.

 

4) Give your IT team enough time to prepare

Intimate your IT team at least 3 months in advance about the move. They need to take care of internet plans, phone connections and other things. They might also have to inspect the new office and determine if there is any need for upgrading the equipments.

 

5) Purge unnecessary items

Get rid of unimportant old files, unused furniture, outdated mobile phones and other things that you won’t be needing anymore. This will make the move easier.

In India you can sell your used furniture on sites like OLX and Quickr. Depending on where you’re located you can search for similar sites in your country.

 

6) Order new equipments in advance

Once you evaluate the new place, you can order new furniture and equipments well in advance. Also, coordinate with the suppliers so that they deliver things to your new office just before you move in. This will help you to settle in quickly.

 

7) Change your address and let everyone know

Update your address on the website, letterheads, business cards etc. You could get a little creative and try one of these ways.

Your clients should know that you are moving and should have the new address with them. Let your vendors also know about the new address so that the deliveries are made correctly at the new place.

 

8) Schedule your move wisely

Plan your office move keeping in mind all your important client meetings and project deadlines. You don’t want to end up in a situation where you have client meetings when all the files, laptops and equipment are being unpacked. That would look very unprofessional. It’s also unfair to expect your staff to work efficiently in such an environment. Give everyone a minimum of 3 days just to settle in.

 

9) Use name cards to organize

Packing name cards can be inserted at multiple places in the boxes and movers can use the layout chart to appropriately place the items. You can also put name cards at the new office, helping the movers to place the boxes appropriately.

There can be a lot of factors you can consider for moving an office from one place to another but at last a thorough plan and good organisation can make the move a hassle-free experience.

Looking to move your officeGet a FREE quote from Writer Relocations today.

 

Choose Writer Relocations for stress-free moving

For 63 years, Writer Relocations has been helping all types of moves safely and without stress. Our services include International Moving, India Moving, VIP Moving, Orientation Services, Fine Art Moving, Office Shifting Services, Hospitality Logistics, Commercial Moves etc. That simply means that with our move planning, specialty moving services, and packing acumen, you are assured fuss-free moves.

Speak to a moving expert from Writer Relocations today @022-334-91787 or contact us here. Get your free moving quote here.

Have you ever been through such a stressful time while moving? Have we missed out on something which you think should be a part of this article? Do let us know in the comments below.

Categories Blog

Challenges of Living Abroad: 4 Harshest Realities and How to Overcome

Shifting to a new country for good can be quite a challenging task. It needs meticulous planning and assistance from an experienced relocation expert to ensure the transition is smooth.

Many times, a quest for travel, a hunger to discover newer terrains, impel many of us to seek a turf, far away from our familiar grounds, to a new country, and make it our home. The reasons to relocate can be varied – a call from a fancy university, a job prospect too hard to resist, following a loved one in a new country, or just to cut away the nagging boredom of our known environs or maybe some long-cherished love for a certain country to make it a home. The reasons for today’s worldwide relocation may be diverse, but the challenges of relocating remain constant. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key challenges of relocation.

1. Cultural Mismatch:

Each country is identified by its various cultures and traditions, which might be vastly different from one another. And in this mismatch lies a confusion. When you travel to a foreign country it’s this cultural difference that’ll baffle you. Well, no need to stress out because it can easily be dealt with. This article will help you solve all your queries when it comes to dealing with culture shock in a foreign land.

2. Dealing with isolation:

In your own land, you most often take human companionship for granted. However, when you relocate to a new country, in the initial few months its common for most of you to find yourselves completely isolated and craving for the company of friends. But this is quite normal and you have to be the one to put in considerable efforts to break the ice with your new neighbours. Here are 5 amazing tips you could use.

3. A sense of not fitting in:

It’s natural to feel like you do not belong to the new land you have moved in. To begin with, you have to start all over again, for everything. You will find yourself in a position that you aren’t aware of anything, and everyone has an edge over you in all matters. Well, you aren’t the only one with such emotions. Try and make yourself understand that it’s adventurous to unravel the unknown. After all, wasn’t it the kind of life you had always wanted, and therefore had taken the plunge on the first go.

4. A threat to your peace:

You are in a completely new country and anything can go wrong. From basic things like getting to figure out the right person for daily errands like plumbing, gardening, driving, and others, to identifying the correct educational centers, medical institutions, markets and so on, it can take months for you to figure out how to sort out things for yourself and your family. These things might appear small but can pose a threat to your peace. However, you need not stress too much. If there is a problem, there is also a realistic way to solve it.  And, that’s where the experience of an expert international movers and packers company like Writer Relocations, comes into play. You can sit back and relax if you have our assistance in international removals services. Learn more about our international home shifting services here.

 

So, in case relocation is on top of your mind lately, don’t break your head during the panic-stricken sleepless nights. Having spent 63 years in global relocation services, you can be sure to have a stress-free and damage-free move when you hire Writer Relocations for your home move. We are the ones you can rely upon when it comes to international relocation services, local relocation, office shifting, fine art relocation and commercial relocation services.

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DIY Ideas on What to Do with Boxes After Moving

Finally! The move is complete.

After arriving in your new place and unpacking everything, you’re surely ready to get settled.

But first, let’s talk about that big pile of moving boxes disrupting the zen of your new home.

Relocation entails a lot of planning and preparation, but those don’t often cover what happens after you unpack. Still, the fact that you need to deal with those used moving boxes as early as possible doesn’t change.

But don’t throw them away just yet. There’s always a way to recycle these things and make sure they don’t merely end up in a landfill somewhere.

As professional movers and packers, below are four ideas we recommend that you try to reuse and recycle your moving boxes:

1. Transform them into things that help keep your new home organised.

Cardboard boxes used for home shifting are pretty sturdy because they are made to keep your belongings safe and secure during transport. But did you know that they can also help you keep your things organised even after your move?

First, set aside the sturdier boxes from your relocation. Then, sort your possessions – from clothing and apparel to books and magazines – and put them away in their proper places.

After that, let your creativity flow and transform those boxes into something functional and decorative at the same time.

Here are some ways to recycle your moving boxes to organise your home:

Cardboard Drawer Dividers

Pieces of cardboard can be made into simple dividers to keep your closet or office desk drawers tidy. Below is a step-by-step guide for this DIY project:

  • Get the measurements of your drawer’s interior: width, height, and depth.
  • Cut two cardboard pieces based on the measurements: 1) height x depth and 2) height x width.
  • Mark the middle of each of the two rectangle-shaped cardboard pieces and cut a line on them halfway through.
  • Insert the pieces onto each other, forming a cross.

If you have more time for the project, you can glam it up a bit. Right before assembling the dividers, cut a piece of wrapping paper according to the cardboard’s dimensions. Then, paste the wrapper onto the partitions.

Don’t forget to retrace the cut along the middle of the cardboard dividers so that you can fit them together.

Stylish Shelf Storage

If you have a shelf or tabletop area you want to tidy up, you can explore creative DIY ideas by using your moving boxes as stylish storage options for your belongings. All you need to do is cover them with colorful fabric, transforming them into eye-catching storage solutions.

Aside from making them look more decorative, this can also enhance the durability of the boxes.

Here’s how you do it:

  • Place a piece of fabric flat on your work surface. Make sure the right side is facing down.
  • Put the box over the fabric and cut according to the size of the outer edges of the box. Leave an extra length for the flap to be folded into the box’s inner sides.
  • Fold the flaps neatly until the outer parts of the box are completely covered.
  • Using a spray adhesive (shaken well), attach the fabric onto the box. Don’t forget to press out air pockets or bubbles that may form on the surfaces. Repeat this process for all sides of the box – inside and out.
  • \
  • Measure the bottom of the box and cut a cardboard piece about a quarter-inch or half-inch smaller. Cover this with fabric using the same process.
  • Secure the extra cardboard piece at the bottom of the box. This should help support the weight of the items you put inside.

You can add more decorations like lace materials or ribbons to the storage box. If you prefer, you may also label it according to the contents you intend to put inside.

2. Use them to protect your floors when redecorating.

After you move, you may also want to redecorate or repaint your new place. Use your moving boxes to protect your floors, walls, and furniture by breaking them down according to the size of the items you want to cover.

Pro Tip: Cut them along the folded seams. Make them as big as possible and layer them over your carpet. You can also use painter’s tape to secure them on your wood floors to prevent damage.

3. Create a pet playhouse out of them.

You can also use old moving cardboard boxes for your pets.

Break them down and use them as extra matting for your furry babies’ sleeping area.

You can also keep them as they are and transform them into a cat or dog playhouse. Don’t forget to cut out windows and doors for your kitty to enjoy, or attach several boxes to create a bigger fort.

4. Set them aside for later use.

Whether you own a business, ship a lot of packages, or like to wrap gifts, you can quickly turn your moving boxes into shipping or gift containers.

Keep those you think you can use and fold them up to save space. You can just set the boxes back up when it’s time to use them.

Besides this, you can also use your moving boxes for the same purpose they are designed for – for relocation. As international movers and packers, we see many people transferring from one place to another and reusing the same moving boxes over and over (as long as they are still sturdy and in good condition, of course).

Eco-Friendly Relocation Is a Must

People use up a lot of materials during a move, most of which end up in the trash afterwards. If you wish to make your relocation eco-friendly, you can begin by recycling moving boxes as advised here.

Want to learn more cost-efficient and environmentally friendly methods of removal? Get in touch with Writer Relocations. We’re always here to help.

Over 50 and Looking for a Job Abroad? Here are Tips to Land Overseas Career Opportunities Swiftly
Categories Blog

Moving abroad for education? Tips for you

Studying abroad is a major decision in the life of any individual. Regardless of which country you plan to move in to, it all about adopting its culture, meeting new people, and getting in terms with a new way of life as well. Learning a completely new language might be irksome too initially.

Preparing for this life can get daunting at times. Where can you begin for this? What are the things to look out for, how to start and how to prepare? Here are a few smart tips for you as you relocate to another country for a better education.

Extensive planning and in-depth research

Find out in details about your destination city, the place you are planning to stay, food and lodging options and things that you can indulge in during your leisure hours. If you are taking the help of an international relocation service provider, to help in the moving process, you can get all the required assistance whenever you need them, be it home search, language and cultural training and so on.

Many students spend their weekends, when they are relatively free, in neighbouring countries, especially if you are in some European country. So, a thorough research will help you find the right options for yourself.

Save up

In a new country where you are staying far away from your family members, it is essential to save money so that in case there is some emergency, you do not have any problems fending for yourself. And, so no matter how much you think you have saved up, it’s never going to be enough. For this, you need to do extensive budgeting from the very beginning of your stay. That way you will garner enough skills to save money sufficiently so that you have a stress-free experience.

Learn the lingo

Mastering the language in the country where you have shifted for education, is a must if you want to be part of the social circle and be part of the core group. And, if not mastering, at least you need to learn to a certain extent so that it helps you to lead a sorted life in a new country.

Decide the things you would want to carry from your country of origin

Many times, you would want to carry with you some essential items from your country of origin when you move to a new place for studies. They may have some special relevance for you, they may have some emotional value attached to them. A trustworthy moving and packing company will take care of your goods and make sure they remain unscathed after relocating them to the new country.

Studying abroad is a worthwhile experience. So, keep aside your fears and set sail and soon before you realise, all your fears will be addressed.

7 Ways to Stay Healthy and Prepare for Your Relocation
Categories Blog

7 Ways to Stay Healthy and Prepare for Your Relocation

Moving to a new home is one of the most stressful events a person can experience in their life. So if you are moving soon, keeping stress in check and staying healthy is a must.

Moving involves planning and completing several different tasks, making it challenging to effectively concentrate on anything else. Staying safe, calm, focused, and healthy when preparing for expat relocation is critically essential in pulling off a hassle-free, successful move. Thankfully, there are proven ways to keep your health at an optimum level.

From visiting your physician to employing simple relocation strategies, here are seven ways to maintain good health while preparing for your move.

1. See your doctor

Before anything else, visit your physician for a wellness check-up.

Getting a baseline health assessment will ensure that you are both mentally and physically prepared for the move and that you are able to secure the latest health records you can share with your new doctor.

If you are struggling with vitamin deficiencies like low B12 or iron, your physician can give expert tips for remaining healthy while adjusting to your new lifestyle. You may also be prescribed medication, depending on your current condition, to help boost your health.

You may also be referred to a travel medicine specialist who can provide you with the latest update on required vaccines and disease prevention tips you will need in your new home country.

If you are taking prescription medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about preparing a larger-than-usual supply so you will have enough stock days or weeks after arrival, if possible. Don’t forget to ask your physician if they can recommend a trusted clinic or health practitioner in your new home.

2. Eat nutritious meals

Healthy eating is another crucial habit to include in your health agenda so you can have the emotional stamina and physical strength to survive the relocation process.

Here are some tips for eating healthy:

  • Develop a meal plan – Create a meal plan based on your specific needs and decide what you should have for breakfast, lunch, and dinner until you arrive at your new home.
  • Add in healthy snacks, such as whole-grain crackers, nuts, and fruits. Keep them within reach so you have something to munch on when your energy level begins to drop.
  • Don’t skip meals.
  • Avoid junk food.

3. Stay hydrated

Mild to moderate dehydration can cause unpleasant side effects, such as headaches, dry mouth, and increased thirst. You don’t want to experience any of these symptoms as these could ruin your pre-move schedule.

Thus, keep your drinking water close by and drink as often as you can. You can also drink tea, but preferably without sugar, to quench your thirst.

Avoid carbonated drinks because they contain plenty of sugar that can result in sugar crashes and energy declines. Consuming high doses of carbohydrates can leave you even thirstier.

4. Get enough sleep

Getting proper sleep when preparing for a move is easier said than done. Most people tend to sacrifice sleeping hours to get more things done on their moving to-do lists. This could work for a day, but not getting enough sleep for several nights can cause negative side effects.

So don’t make it a habit to give up hours of good sleep, as this can cause you to feel sluggish, exhausted, and unproductive in the next couple of days. Get at least seven hours of good sleep.

Generally, here are ways to get enough survival sleep:

  • Start your moving preparations early
  • Create a moving checklist
  • Ask for help from family and friends

5. Pack your possessions in a healthy manner

Packing is among the most dreaded relocation tasks as it may feel like it takes forever to get it done. It also requires maximum effort and money to buy all kinds of packing materials.

The key is to deal with your home packing task through an efficient and stress-free process. Here’s how to do it:

  • Begin with the packing as soon as your relocation is confirmed.
  • Create and follow a packing timeline to minimise or eliminate downtime or wasted time.
  • Get rid of all unnecessary or unwanted items.
  • Start packing the larger and most demanding rooms like kitchen and storage areas, and work your way toward those that are more straightforward to pack up.
  • Break up the packing process into manageable mini-tasks.
  • Have frequent breaks to avoid exertion, and to re-energise and catch your breath.

6. Stay safe and free from injuries

Staying healthy when preparing for a move also means avoiding getting injured throughout the moving process.

A house move involves demanding and strenuous activities, including carrying, lifting, and loading heavy and large appliances, furnishings, and other bulky household items.

Here’s how to stay injury-free:

  • Use proper lifting techniques, such as keeping your back straight, bending your knees and not your back, keeping heavy items close to your waist, and getting a good grip on things that must be moved or lifted.
  • Clear the pathways by removing obstacles that may endanger your safety. Keep them free of mud and dust, too.
  • Be mindful of what you wear. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes to ensure enough freedom of movement. Also, wear protective clothing like gloves when necessary.
  • Use proper lifting and moving equipment, such as a furniture dolly and sliders.

7. Hire expert packers and movers

The key to staying healthy and injury-free when moving house is to let professional packers and movers handle most of the difficult tasks. This can also help minimise any moving-related stress.

Home relocation can cause dangers and risks for you, especially when it involves plenty of healthy and bulky household items. An erroneous move can result in property damage, while one wrong step can lead to injuries. And when moving for the first time, your health and safety can be at higher risk.

Do yourself a favour and hire relocation service providers who have the proper knowledge, skills, and tools to guarantee efficiency and safety before, during, and after your move. They can even provide you with expert tips for moving and reliable packing supplies to protect your things while in transit.

Staying physically and emotionally healthy when preparing for your move is of utmost importance. Don’t sacrifice your well-being in an attempt to prove to yourself that you are tough, strong and capable. Instead, see a doctor, eat and sleep well, and stay hydrated and injury-free. Most importantly, be smart and invest in professional relocation services.

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