Ship your belongings or buy again after moving?

Build an inventory worth comparing

List essential items, approximate size, condition and whether they fit the destination home. Separate sentimental or irreplaceable possessions from ordinary replaceable goods: a price comparison cannot decide their personal value. Check compatibility of appliances and furniture dimensions. Do not assume a furnished apartment needs the same inventory as an empty one.

Compare complete alternatives

For shipping, request a written quote covering the actual route, access, packing and delivery scope. Check exclusions, storage and applicable customs requirements with authoritative local information. For replacement, include delivery and assembly. Illustration: shipping at 700 plus 100 storage compares with 850 delivered replacements, not an advertised shelf total that omits delivery.

Include time and uncertainty without inventing a price

Record delivery windows and the temporary essentials needed while waiting. Keep insurance scope and any assumed resale of old items visible. Do not subtract hoped-for sale proceeds as guaranteed money. You may prefer a more expensive option for practical reasons; show those reasons separately instead of manipulating the cost inputs to make it appear cheaper.

Sources and further reading

• Lifovra — methodology and limitations