Moving from US - electrical and mail question

[mander]

Anyone who has moved from the US know if it is worth it to bring small appliances, such as blender, toaster, hair dryer, etc.? Also, what about bringing a desktop computer. Is it worth it or should we try to buy one once we arrive?

Does the US post office forward mail just like moving within the US or do we need to use a mail forwarding service? Not sure what to do since we will live in a serviced apartment for 5-6 weeks first.

[jayinhongkong]

don't bring the small appliances but bring your desktop if you want. They're slightly cheaper in the US on the whole. The small appliances might not work since our voltage out here is different (220V vs 110V) so I wouldn't bother. Most hair dryers can use both voltages - check the label on it to be sure.

I'm not sure about mail forwarding...try http://www.usps.com for that answer ;]

[peony]

USPS mail forwarding works beautifully. However, only first class mail is forwarded - no magazines, for example. Also I think it is for a shorter period (six months?) than when forwarding domestically.

Our postman was not aware of international forwarding. When I went to the post office, the forwarding address card did not even have room for country designation, etc., but I was told to fit it in anyway.

Of course some institutions (such as your bank) should have no problem updating to a foreign address.

Good luck.

[Sleuth]

Check the voltage on anything you bring over. A lot of newer appliances take worldwide voltage, so you only need to convert/adapt the plug. Your computer should take universal voltage, our Dell (and Dell said all Dells) have a switch on the back to make the conversion. Just because the computer works does not necessarily mean the monitor will work.
But this could be the perfect excuse to upgrade your computer after the move.
Do you know anyone who will forward your mail from the US?

[mander]

Thanks for all the replies. Our computer is an HP and has the converter switch on the back. I will check the smaller appliances to see if they are okay.

As far as the mail goes, I can forward to my family or to my husband's work address.

Again, thanks!