It's hard to believe that it's already 2018. It's also hard to believe how technology and international commerce has enabled people to live, work, and travel overseas like never before. Ask anyone nowadays and chances are good that they know someone who is working abroad, traveling abroad while working, relocated overseas, or expatriated to a new country. What was a rare occurrence 25 years ago is rather commonplace today, and it's changed the way we see and think about life and business. It's also changed our options, possibilities and opportunities.
With so many living and working abroad, it's not such a difficult feat anymore. However, there are some things to be aware of and prepared for. One of those things is how to go about making your move while managing electronics and appliances. If you're relocating long-term or expatriating, chances are you'll be looking for a place to make yourself comfortable rather than renting a furnished apartment. Have you thought abut purchasing major appliances? Kitchen appliances? Electronics and personal devices? Maybe you plan on shipping all your possessions overseas or maybe you plan to buy new things upon your arrival. Are you aware of the pros and cons of each?
Let's see if we can help you get a better understanding of the challenges associated with furnishing your new home overseas so you can live with the comforts of home, regardless of where in the world you're located.
The Difference in Voltage
The most important factor to consider is the difference in voltage around the world. In North America, for example, 120 volts is the standard electricity. That's the voltage we use for 99% of our business and residential infrastructure. Our electronics and appliances are manufactured and sold to be used at this specific voltage. In Asia, however, the standard voltage is 220 volts. All of their appliances and electronics are made to work at that voltage, and will not work in North America. Likewise, North American electronics and appliances will not work with Asia's 220 volt electricity. And it's not only Asia - many areas and regions use 110 or 120 volts, while many others use 220 or 240. It all depends on where you go.
If you didn't already know this, it might be somewhat of a surprise as you may have assumed that electricity is electricity. Now that you know, you can learn a little more and decide what options suit you best.
Using Your Electronics and Appliances Safely
There is, of course, a solution to the incompatibility problem of foreign electronics. A voltage converter (also known as a voltage transformer) is a device that will allow you to safely change the voltage up or down, making it possible to change 220 volt electricity down to 120 volts so you can safely use your American electronics or appliances in Asia. Voltage converters are not very expensive, and they're available in a variety of sizes (watts) that can handle everything from a coffee maker to an electric clothes dryer. You can learn more about them by checking out this Voltage Converter Buying Guide to see if it looks like a good solution for you.
Buying New Stuff When You Arrive
One option that many opt for is to purchase new major appliances and electronics when they arrive to their destination country. This is a viable option, but there are many setbacks. First, the selection is going to be extremely limited for anyone who is accustomed to shopping in western appliance stores. You might not find what you need or what you want. The options available can also seem weak for what you're paying, and prices are higher because there is less demand and fewer units being sold. Furthermore, if you don't speak the language and don't know where to shop, you're going to get taken advantage of when making your purchases. You could literally spend weeks trying to find a washer/dryer, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave that suit your needs and your style. And you could pay as much as double for products made half as well (and half the size) that you're used to. This is not the best option.
Buying Electronics and Appliances Before You Go
One of the best, easiest, and most economical choices is to buy everything before you go. With a company like 220 Electronics (us) who specializes in international relocation, your worries about electronics and appliances can be eliminated. We stock a huge variety of home appliances, electronics, and personal devices that are specifically designed for 220 volt use. We carry the top brands, the most popular models, and we guarantee the lowest pricing - really! We can help you choose the products that fit your needs and your budget, then ship them anywhere in the word for you. We can even arrange for delivery after your arrival if necessary. If you're already there and want to order, you can do so right from our website. It's a one-stop-shop for all of your appliance and electronic needs. No lines, no pushy salesmen, no searching for stores and no disappointments about the small selection of cheap brands. You can browse from home at your own pace, and our specialists are here to help you when you're ready.
Need more info? We're more than happy to give you a free, no hassle relocation consultation. Contact us today, we're here to help. We can make your move easier, cheaper, and less stressful. We have over 35 years of experience and we hope you'll join our long list of satisfied customers. Whatever your decision, we wish you well in your travels.
Managing Electronics and Appliances When Moving Overseas
- By Josh Vick
- Jan 29, 2018
It's hard to believe that it's already 2018. It's also hard to believe how technology and international commerce has enabled people to live, work, and travel overseas like never before. Ask anyone nowadays and chances are good that they know someone who is working abroad, traveling abroad while working, relocated overseas, or expatriated to a new country. What was a rare occurrence 25 years ago is rather commonplace today, and it's changed the way we see and think about life and business. It's also changed our options, possibilities and opportunities.
With so many living and working abroad, it's not such a difficult feat anymore. However, there are some things to be aware of and prepared for. One of those things is how to go about making your move while managing electronics and appliances. If you're relocating long-term or expatriating, chances are you'll be looking for a place to make yourself comfortable rather than renting a furnished apartment. Have you thought abut purchasing major appliances? Kitchen appliances? Electronics and personal devices? Maybe you plan on shipping all your possessions overseas or maybe you plan to buy new things upon your arrival. Are you aware of the pros and cons of each?
Let's see if we can help you get a better understanding of the challenges associated with furnishing your new home overseas so you can live with the comforts of home, regardless of where in the world you're located.
The Difference in Voltage
The most important factor to consider is the difference in voltage around the world. In North America, for example, 120 volts is the standard electricity. That's the voltage we use for 99% of our business and residential infrastructure. Our electronics and appliances are manufactured and sold to be used at this specific voltage. In Asia, however, the standard voltage is 220 volts. All of their appliances and electronics are made to work at that voltage, and will not work in North America. Likewise, North American electronics and appliances will not work with Asia's 220 volt electricity. And it's not only Asia - many areas and regions use 110 or 120 volts, while many others use 220 or 240. It all depends on where you go.
If you didn't already know this, it might be somewhat of a surprise as you may have assumed that electricity is electricity. Now that you know, you can learn a little more and decide what options suit you best.
Using Your Electronics and Appliances Safely
There is, of course, a solution to the incompatibility problem of foreign electronics. A voltage converter (also known as a voltage transformer) is a device that will allow you to safely change the voltage up or down, making it possible to change 220 volt electricity down to 120 volts so you can safely use your American electronics or appliances in Asia. Voltage converters are not very expensive, and they're available in a variety of sizes (watts) that can handle everything from a coffee maker to an electric clothes dryer. You can learn more about them by checking out this Voltage Converter Buying Guide to see if it looks like a good solution for you.
Buying New Stuff When You Arrive
One option that many opt for is to purchase new major appliances and electronics when they arrive to their destination country. This is a viable option, but there are many setbacks. First, the selection is going to be extremely limited for anyone who is accustomed to shopping in western appliance stores. You might not find what you need or what you want. The options available can also seem weak for what you're paying, and prices are higher because there is less demand and fewer units being sold. Furthermore, if you don't speak the language and don't know where to shop, you're going to get taken advantage of when making your purchases. You could literally spend weeks trying to find a washer/dryer, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave that suit your needs and your style. And you could pay as much as double for products made half as well (and half the size) that you're used to. This is not the best option.
Buying Electronics and Appliances Before You Go
One of the best, easiest, and most economical choices is to buy everything before you go. With a company like 220 Electronics (us) who specializes in international relocation, your worries about electronics and appliances can be eliminated. We stock a huge variety of home appliances, electronics, and personal devices that are specifically designed for 220 volt use. We carry the top brands, the most popular models, and we guarantee the lowest pricing - really! We can help you choose the products that fit your needs and your budget, then ship them anywhere in the word for you. We can even arrange for delivery after your arrival if necessary. If you're already there and want to order, you can do so right from our website. It's a one-stop-shop for all of your appliance and electronic needs. No lines, no pushy salesmen, no searching for stores and no disappointments about the small selection of cheap brands. You can browse from home at your own pace, and our specialists are here to help you when you're ready.
Need more info? We're more than happy to give you a free, no hassle relocation consultation. Contact us today, we're here to help. We can make your move easier, cheaper, and less stressful. We have over 35 years of experience and we hope you'll join our long list of satisfied customers. Whatever your decision, we wish you well in your travels.
Whether you're temporarily working abroad for an extended period or permanently relocating overseas, there's a lot you need to know before taking the leap.
If you're relocating overseas, whether it be for business or retirement, you can save yourself a great deal of frustration, time and even money by ensuring you have all of the proper appliances before traveling. To better explain this, we're going to take a brief look into a few of the common scenarios that are encountered when moving or relocating overseas or to a foreign country.
Adapting to a new country that you're going to call home has its fair share of challenges. There will be plenty of surprises, some pleasant and some not so pleasant, as well as an array of cultural and societal differences that will take some getting used to. For many, this is part of the excitement - new learning experiences keep the mind from growing bored. But with that said, there are going to be some differences that take a bit of getting used to, which can often be simple things that you might take for granted. Shopping is one thing that's sure to frustrate, even for those with the utmost patience. The combination of a new language, varying standards of customer service and a lackluster selection of the brands and products that you're used to are just a few of the things that pose an immediate threat to your ability to simply shop for groceries. While it can be accomplished, you're probably going to need a bit of patience and a strong will to learn.
One of the most dreaded shopping experiences overseas could very possibly be purchasing home appliances. Even in your home country, shopping for appliances can be a lot like shopping for a car. There is wiggle room in the pricing of major appliances, yet there are hundreds of makes and models to choose from. Factor in the language barrier, cultural differences (which could affect the ability to barter, especially if you're seen as a "foreigner") and currency differences and you've got enough on your plate to make your head spin. The good news is that there's no reason to fret, because there are specialized businesses who are experts in international relocation. These are people who understand the stresses of moving to a new country (or anywhere overseas) and can minimize the hassle of purchasing appliances and electronics overseas by ensuring you're prepared BEFORE you move.
220 Electronics is one of these businesses. For over 30 years, 220 Electronics has specialized in international relocation by offering a complete inventory of 110 volt through 240 volt electronics, home appliances and travel products. From Multi-system TV's and Blu-ray Players that operate at any voltage, to 220 volt major appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, small kitchen appliances and more. 220 Electronics stocks the best makes and models from the top brand names you've grown to trust, and everything is offered at industry leading prices. So, what does this all mean?
Well, lets assume that your current home is fully furnished, and while you've pondered the idea of simply refurnishing your new home upon your arrival to a new country, there's a lot of things you'd like to keep. So you've contracted an international mover, a bulk shipping company or a cargo company and arranged to have all of your belongings shipped overseas - but you can't take your appliances or most of your electronics with you because your new home country operates at 220 volt electricity which your appliances were not designed for. Should you purchase new appliances and electronics when you arrive? Sure, but you're likely going to run into the problems mentioned above, and ultimately end up paying a higher price. There's a better solution.
If you've arranged to have your belongings shipped overseas to your new home, now is the perfect time to purchase all of your major appliances and electronics so they can arrive in time to be shipped over with the rest of your things. 220 Electronics sells everything you'll need to be comfortable in your new home without enduring the hassle of having to shop overseas. We carry many electronics that utilize worldwide voltage, meaning they'll work properly any where in the world from 110 to 240 volt electrical systems, as well as a full line of standard 220, 230, and 240 volt major appliances. Pricing is simple (and low), the inventory is robust and the customer service is second to none in the industry. Our online store allows you to order directly from the comfort of your home and have your order shipped direct to your home where it will be ready for shipping with the rest of your things.
While many people are surprised that such a service exists, thinking they wished they would have thought of it sooner, there are thousands upon thousands of satisfied customers whose move was made easy thanes to our expert staff, everyday low prices and timely delivery.
For more information on how we can assist you with your international relocation, or to simply browse our inventory to get a better idea of what we offer, visit our website today at 
