We are moving back to India from U.S. with two kids 5 and 3. What should we bring?

Question

We are moving back to India with two kids 5 and 3. We are packing all our clothing and books. What else should we bring with us? Does it make sense to carry the appliances, kitchen items, cars, furniture etc?

Answer 1

When people do an international relocation they usually bring only personal items and the like.

If your company is paying for your move, then you can take with you more big stuff like furniture.

Eletrical appliances might not work in India - and if that's the case you'll have to leave those items behind.  Have a yard sale.

Shipping a car is very costly. And gas is way more expensive overseas than it is in the USA.  Where would you park your car back in India anyway?  I've seen photos of crowded city streets and houses are packed on top of each other.  Unless you are very wealthy by Indian standards you may not have room for a car at your house!

If your children were born in the USA, then they are US citizens.  You will have to register them with the US counsel so their US birth can be well established in both countries.  This birthright must not be lost in the shuffle of relocating to another country.  They may even be dual citizenship depending on the laws of India.  So if this is the case, bring official copies of their birth certificates!

Happy moving!

Answer 2

Well, yes... it makes perfect sense to take your possessions with you, unless you plan on starting over and buying new things in India.