The topic of Brexit has been a bit of a taboo over the last three years – but it’s real, it’s happening, and for any American moving to the UK, it needs to be considered.

So, let’s get down to the facts. How will Brexit impact you?

The exchange rate

It was previously unclear how the exchange rate would be affected by the newly elected government, however, with the pound soaring at midnight, it’s good news for anyone heading home for Christmas and looking to cash in their pounds for dollars.

However, for those already working in the UK and being paid in USD (supposing the exchange rate sticks around), you may find your earnings won’t go as far over the holiday season.

For those moving to the UK, this will be something to consider, especially if you’re being paid in USD. However, the pound has a long history of instability, and with Brexit on the horizon, there is a chance it will fall again swiftly.

British/American dual citizenship

The impact on Americans with dual citizenship living in the UK will be determined by the type of dual citizenship you have. Those with US Italian or US Spain citizenship (etc) will have to apply to live in the UK the same way EU citizens will be required to apply post-Brexit, under a ‘Settlement Status’.

If you are planning to move to the UK under an EU passport which is non-UK, this will be one of the biggest aggravating factors in your move. In order to ensure your visa is legal, utilize all of the Government resources available to you.

Whilst it’s still uncertain, there are talks of Brexit resulting in stronger links between the UK and US – a citizenship path which until now, has been incredibly hard – if this is the case, the result of Brexit may be an easier visa process, which will work in favour of those looking to move across the pond in the future.

For businesses/employment opportunities

Many European and international businesses which once based themselves solely from the UK are making the move into Europe. Where the UK was once the middle-man for US-EU relations, the break in the market between the UK and EU as a result of Brexit is likely to mean more and more US companies trade directly with the larger EU market, rather than the UK.

If you are an American citizen determined to move to the UK, this may hinder your plans whilst companies try to find their footing in a time of uncertainty. However, there will be plenty more opportunities for Americans looking to make their way to other EU countries, as the movement of businesses will create both domestic and international jobs.

The US/UK Tax Treaty

There have been no talks – and as far as we know, no reason – as to why the US/UK tax treaty would change. It currently affects a very minimal number of expats, however, if that is you, then Brexit is extremely unlikely to change it.

The two main categories of Americans who will be impacted by Brexit, are expats who are in the UK on an EU passport which is not UK, and those who work under companies who may relocate outside of the UK for economic stability. However, if you have secured your visa and are ready to go, the reality is Brexit will not impact you much more than it will the average UK citizen.

If you’re looking at moving to the UK/EU, UPakWeShip has over 30 years of moving experience – and we have offices in both the UK and Europe! From moving your whole home to shipping a couple of bags, we have a huge range of containers to suit your needs. Find out your up-front, no-hidden-costs quote today on our website.

The post How Will Brexit Impact Americans Moving to the UK/EU appeared first on UPakWeShip.

With mountains for miles, the UK’s best capital (less pollution but as much history) and a lot of ginger beards, Scotland is my favorite British country. Which is sacrilege to say, because I’m half-English, half-Irish.

But I have my reasons, and it’s not just because of Scottish Twitter, Outlander, and Lewis Capaldi – although they are all extremely valid.

What is Scotland really like, and once the visa process is complete… what can you expect from life over the wall?

The common language really is English

It may sometimes seem as if a foreign language is being spoken in Scotland. A language in which you can only understand the last word of each sentence – if you’re lucky. But Scottish is simply a variation of English, where word choices and pronunciation vary from city to city. The good news is, you’ll probably recognize the swear words.

Scotland does have a form of Gaelic, which was traditionally spoken in the country, however, the language is now considered as dying.

Rangers vs Celtics

If you live in Scotland, there’s one question you need to be prepared for. Who do you support?

Unlike in England, where football teams vary far and wide, almost everyone in Scotland has an affliction with one of the two Glasgow-based football clubs. If you don’t have an answer ready, be prepared to withstand a long lecture as to why you should support one or the other.

The weather

It’s regarded worldwide that Scotland has the beauty and potential of New Zealand and Canada if it weren’t for the weather. The landscape varies from the historic streets and bustle of Edinburgh to miles of mountains and winding roads just ten minutes outside the capital. The further north you go, you can expect to see unspoiled beaches, vast lochs and mountain ranges as far as the eye can see.

However, all of this natural greenery comes at a price – the rain. It really does rain in Scotland as much as people say it does. However, the sun does come out in the summer and nothing is better than exploring the Scottish countryside when the sun is shining.

Haggis and tattie scones

As with all countries, Scotland has its own culinary *ahem* ‘specials’ to offer. Some with higher success rates than others.

Haggis is the one you’re most likely to have come across and really is made from the heart, lungs, and liver of a sheep. Traditionally, it’s mixed with various spices and herbs and is then stuffed into the sheep’s stomach – however, the casing is often made artificially nowadays.

On the other side of the spectrum, tattle scones are a heavenly cross between potato and bread. They’re traditionally served with breakfast and you’re pretty much guaranteed to eat at least five. Any less is a disappointment.

For dessert, why not finish up with a delightful deep-fried Mars bar? If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, maybe a piece of shortbread is more up your street.

A fun fact for our US readers is that although the UK and the US both have Mars and Milkyway, the two bars are different in each country. A UK Mars bar is a US Milkyway. And a UK Milkyway is a US 3 Muskateers bar.

Northern hospitality

Southern hospitality may be a common phrase in America, but in the UK it’s common knowledge that the opposite is true. The further north you travel, the friendlier the people.

Which makes Scotland the friendliest bunch of them all, what with the country being as far north as you can go.

They don’t suffer fools gladly

Despite the above, the Scots are renowned for their crass honesty, and won’t beat around the bush. Don’t expect small talk, if you’re welcome, you’re welcome in your entirety, so leave any fake-ness at the door.

Bagpipes

Ah, the bagpipes. Some people love them, some hate them, but everyone knows they’re Scottish.

The bagpipes are as ingrained in Scottish culture as the tartan kilts upon the men playing them. They’re thought to have been brought into the country by the Romans and have since been used in battle, in courts and to preserve Scottish history. However, you’re most likely now to see them in any Scottish procession – or on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

Country roads

If there’s one thing Americans should be prepared for throughout all of the UK (and Europe) is their roads. Bear in mind that a lot of the roads you travel down were paved originally by the Romans, which means they’re narrow, they’re windy and they are long.

Even the highways aren’t as wide as the US, and grid-systems don’t exist at all in Europe, so it may be worth taking some travel-sickness tablets with you for your initial car-riding experience.

Thinking of moving to Scotland? UPakWeShip offers upfront prices on shipping from the US to all over Europe. With no-hidden-fees and offices in the US, the UK, and Europe, you know you’ll be in safe hands from A to B.

The post Lifting the kilt on Moving to Scotland appeared first on UPakWeShip.

Maersk Alabama

We watched Captain Philips last night at the movies. What a great movie and a good insight into what goes on behind the scenes with ships and its cargo. Captain Philips is a very brave man and played so well by Tom Hanks. Next time you are moving overseas give UPakWeShip a call and we will put your belongings into one of these shipping containers. No containers were hurt during the filming of this movie!

The post Moving Overseas? appeared first on UPakWeShip.