A short-term contract to work in a foreign country is an exciting opportunity to experience a different culture and lifestyle. But if you’re ending your tenancy or letting your home, what do you do with your stuff during your time abroad?

Decide what you’re going to take on your international move

Moving possessions internationally is costly, and it doesn’t make sense to take everything you own with you.

Some of your possessions will have no use while you’re abroad. Electrical goods may be of the wrong voltage. And if you’re going somewhere with a warm climate, a lot of your clothes will be unsuitable. Other items will be cheaper to buy at your destination than to freight there.

Some things are worth keeping, even if they’re not going with you, whether it’s because they have sentimental value, or because they will be pricy to replace. But other items, like white goods, may not be worth storing while you work abroad. Sell or dispose of these, rather than paying for storage.

Where should I put my stuff while I’m abroad?

You might be tempted to store your possessions with a friend or relative while you’re working abroad. But you should be aware that any loss or damage may leave you out of pocket. Storing furniture, clothing and household goods in an unheated garage or outbuilding can leave you with a mould or damp problem, particularly if you’re not around to inspect your things from time to time.

And if you’re relying on the good will of a relative for your storage, what happens if their circumstances change while you’re away?

Instead, we would recommend putting your things into a storage unit, so you can go abroad with complete peace of mind, knowing that everything will be exactly as you left it when you return.

Self-storage companies will insist that you insure your stored goods to protect you from loss. You can save money on your storage bill by shopping around for self-storage insurance. Start by getting a quote from Store and Insure.

How do I save money on storing my stuff while working abroad?

When looking for a self-storage company, shop around and get quotes. The cost of self-storage varies around the country. If you are not going to your unit regularly, you may find it cheaper to use a storage centre in a less convenient location.

You may not need 24-hour access to your stored goods, either. Storage companies that have limited access hours tend to charge less.

You may get a better deal if you commit to storage for six months or a year, depending on how long your contract is.

Our article 7 hacks for storing domestic goods long-term has some advice on cutting storage costs.

You can also save storage costs – and freight costs – by decluttering before your move abroad. There’s no reason to pay to store or freight things you are not really attached to.

Make an inventory for your move abroad

An inventory is key for successful self-storage, and it’s also crucial when you’re freighting goods internationally. An accurate inventory of your stored goods will help you when you get quotes for self-storage insurance; and it will help you remember what you actually own. It’s surprising how much of your stuff you just… forget about if you don’t see it for six months or a year.

An accurate inventory of the stuff you’re taking with you will help when you get quotes from moving companies, and it will help you to avoid customs delays, too.

Best of luck with your adventure!

Living and working abroad will give you experiences and insights that will last the rest of your life, so make the most of it!