When moving to Panama, much will depend on where you're coming from – and how sentimental you are. If you're coming from North or South America and taking your car, you may decide to simply pack it full and drive, but that will mean being ruthless with your belongings and being prepared to start all over again when you arrive. So for the first few weeks it will be like a vacation, with just enough clothes to see you through.
Digitisation means you can have all your music and much of your literature taking up no physical space at all in a computer or even a flash drive, but if you're one who likes looking at CD covers as you listen, and has only just summoned the nerve to ditch your vinyl collection, your home entertainment may prove bulky and heavy.
Most people will end up shipping at least a pallet or two of bits and pieces, or even a container full of furniture and a lifetime's accumulated trappings.
International removal companies have seen it all before and can take the weight from your shoulders (for a price, of course), so the key decision is which one to use. And there, unless you know someone else who has done the same thing, you're on your own.
Like airline passengers, cargo doesn't necessarily go direct from A to B and may be directed via a hub. Within the Caribbean, for instance, a consignment from one island to another may go via Miami because there is no direct service between the two.
Bear in mind, too, that your precious belongings are likely to arrive several weeks after you do, and will not necessarily be delivered to your door, so make sure you know where you will have to go to collect it, what sort of vehicle you're going to need and whether you will need professional help at the Panama end. There are always people available, but sometimes it is hard to find them.
Remember, too, that if the consignment contains cases, cabinets etc. that are locked for security, the customs people may well want them unlocked before they clear them, so make sure you have the keys.
There will have to be a comprehensive inventory to prove exactly what you are putting in someone else's hands, and also to work out replacement costs for insurance purposes.
You may be offered the option of paying a deposit during the loading and the balance on delivery.
The carrier will handle administrative formalities relating to your move on your behalf (customs clearance etc.). For more security, opt for a FIDI affiliated carrier.
It is advisable to check in advance with the Panamanian authorities about international removals to be aware of specific provisions or to obtain information on banned products etc. If you are already in business or are going to start a business in Panama, and intend to take some stock with you, bear in mind that that constitutes importation and could be liable for tax.
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