If you are an expatriate considering moving to Singapore, you aren’t alone! As one of the top destinations for expats to live in, it's not surprising that more expats are wanting to move to Singapore. However, relocating internationally can be quite expensive. As a local Singapore moving company, we are well aware of the costs that come with moving overseas, but fortunately we know the helpful tips on how you squeeze the most out of your budget.
How to save money when moving to Singapore as an expat
Moving overseas is a thrilling experience! But once you begin to add up the cost of visas, moving materials, flights and all your other relocation expenses, it can feel a little overwhelming. Our tips can help you save money during your relocation to Singapore as an expat.
Research the cost of living
Before relocating to Singapore, we highly recommend that you do some research into the cost of living. This research should include the average estimates of accommodation and utilities, food, transportation, and other related living expenses. To ensure you can cover all costs when you move, we recommend having enough savings to cover at least three months of living expenses in Singapore. It’s also a good idea to research the currency exchange rates which can fluctuate. By undergoing this research, you’ll have a good understanding of the cost of living in Singapore and how much you may need to save.
Pack carefully
An easy way to save money during your move to Singapore is pack carefully! This means thinking strategically about what items you should bring with you and what you should sell, donate, or place in storage. You may also have items which can be easily replaced once you’ve arrived in Singapore so aren’t worth being packed and taken with you.
A good example is clothing. There’s not much variation in Singapore’s weather, with temperatures averaging between 25℃ to 30℃ throughout the year. Because of this, it’s not worth bringing all your thick winter coats and jumpers with you. Instead, focus on packing warmer weather clothing. Renting furniture is a great option for furnishing your home on a budget and limiting the amount of things you need to pack and transport. We highly recommend using a professional packing service as experts will carefully pack your furniture and belongings for their international journey, minimising risk of damage, breakage or loss.
Find the right area to live
Where you decide to live in Singapore will not only have an impact on your lifestyle, but also your cost of living. While the residential areas in Singapore popular with expats are a great place to live, they can be more expensive. We recommend moving to an area which is slightly further away from the city centre as it will be more affordable and less competitive with other interested expats.
Reduce your alcohol intake
It may seem a strange suggestion, but reducing your alcohol consumption in Singapore can go a long way in helping you save. As alcohol is considered more of a luxury item in Singapore, you’ll be paying at least SGD$10 for a cheaper beer or a glass of wine in a bar or restaurant. It’s best to purchase your alcohol from the supermarket as it is much affordable, or switch to non-alcoholic beverages which aren’t taxed as much.
Take advantage of public transportation
One of the advantages of living in Singapore is the excellent public transportation available. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is efficient, clean and air-conditioned which makes travelling comfortable and reliable. Having your own vehicle tends to be thought of more as a luxury, however many expats do find it worthwhile to transport their vehicle to Singapore from overseas. If you’d like to do the same then use a vehicle transportation service as part of your overall moving package to get the best deal.
Use secure storage
Space is at a premium in Singapore so it can be much more financially savvy to choose a smaller apartment or home and then securely store your belongings and furniture in a storage facility. Allied’s storage service provides both short-term and long-term storage options for maximum flexibility, and is highly secure with 24/7 monitoring and inventory recording.
Choose an experienced moving company
The best way to save during your move to Singapore from abroad is to use an experienced moving company like Allied Moving Services. As we have the right expertise, training and equipment, you will be able to move efficiently to your new home in Singapore. This will not save you time, but also reduces the risk of added costs caused by moving delays and breakages, damages and lost items which can occur due to an inexperienced moving company. Make your
move to Singapore today a cost-effective experience by booking your international relocation with Allied Moving Services today!