22 Oct The Ultimate Checklist for Families Relocating Internationally from Monterrey: 90, 60, and 30 Days Before Your Move
Moving to another country is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. The excitement of a fresh start comes hand in hand with an endless list of tasks that, if not tackled in time, can turn into a major headache. If you live in Monterrey and your international relocation is just around the corner, this international moving checklist was designed with you in mind.
We’ve broken the preparation process into three key stages: 90, 60, and 30 days before your departure date. Following this order not only reduces stress—it protects your family, your documents, and your belongings every step of the way.
90 Days Before: Laying the Groundwork
With three months to go, the goal is to make strategic decisions and handle everything that takes the longest to process. This is the time to act—not to wait.
Documentation and Legal Formalities
- Check the expiration dates on every family member’s passport; renew any that expire within 6 months.
- Start the visa or residency permit process for your destination country.
- Gather apostilled birth certificates, marriage certificates, and your children’s school records.
- Consult a specialized attorney or document specialist if your destination requires certified translations.
- Notify the SAT (Mexico’s tax authority) and review your tax obligations as a Mexican resident.
Moving Logistics
- Request quotes from international moving companies with experience in relocations from Monterrey. Be sure to ask about door-to-door service, which includes packing, customs clearance, and delivery at your destination.
- Decide what you’ll take, what you’ll sell, and what you’ll donate. Less volume means lower costs.
- Research the import restrictions in your destination country: certain foods, plants, medications, or electronics may be held at customs.
- Purchase international cargo insurance to protect your belongings throughout the journey.
Finances and Banking
- Open an international bank account or activate a card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Research how to transfer your funds safely and legally.
- Cancel or transfer subscriptions, insurance policies, and services tied to your Monterrey address.
60 Days Before: Nailing Down the Details
Two months out, you should already have the big picture in place. Now it’s time to execute with precision.
Housing and Schools at Your Destination
- Confirm your housing situation in your destination country—whether you’re buying, renting, or moving into corporate housing.
- Enroll your children in their new school or international institution. Many have waiting lists, so acting early is essential.
- Research the local healthcare system and locate doctors, pediatricians, and pharmacies near your new address.
Packing and Household Logistics
- Create a detailed inventory of everything being shipped. Photograph any items of value.
- Coordinate with your international moving company to set an exact pickup date in Monterrey.
- Start packing items you don’t use daily: books, décor, seasonal clothing, and storage items.
- Get any required or recommended vaccinations for your destination country, especially if you’re traveling with children.
Domestic Formalities in Monterrey
- Notify your landlord or manage the sale of your property.
- Cancel utilities: electricity (CFE), water, gas, internet, and phone service.
- Notify your bank, educational institutions, and employer of your change of address.
- Process your IMSS deregistration or review your ISSSTE situation if applicable.
30 Days Before: The Final Critical Steps
The last month tends to be the most emotionally intense, but with the previous steps already handled, all that’s left is fine-tuning the operational details.
Week 4 (30–22 Days Before)
- Confirm flights, itineraries, and temporary accommodation bookings if there will be a gap between leaving Monterrey and moving into your new home.
- Finish packing the bulk of your belongings.
- Submit all required documentation to your moving company for customs processing.
Week 3 (21–15 Days Before)
- Organize your carry-on and personal luggage with the essentials: medications, original documents, clothes for the first few days, and valuables.
- Schedule final appointments with your doctor, dentist, and veterinarian if you’re traveling with pets. Obtain the international zoosanitary certificate.
- Download offline maps, apps, and key contacts for your destination onto your devices.
Final Week
- Clean and hand over your Monterrey property as agreed.
- Wrap up any remaining administrative tasks: close bank accounts you won’t need or activate them for international use.
- Confirm the status of your shipment and estimated delivery times with your moving company.
- Take care of your children’s emotional well-being: talk with them openly about the change, their feelings, and what to expect.
The Right Partner Makes All the Difference
This checklist covers the essentials, but every family has its own unique circumstances—complex destinations, tight timelines, fragile or high-value items, or simply the need for a trustworthy point of contact available around the clock. A well-executed international move doesn’t just depend on having the right checklist; it depends on having the right team.
At IMS Movers, we understand that behind every box there’s a story, a home, and a family that deserves to arrive at their new destination with peace of mind. Our 24-hour support and door-to-door worldwide service are built to accompany you from Monterrey to wherever in the world life takes you.
Ready to get started? Request your international moving quote today and receive personalized, no-obligation advice.