The United States of America is a vast country with 50 different states, each with its own culture and way of life. It is one of the most sought-after countries for people who want to travel. It is also considered an exciting country for relocation with people coming from places all over the world, including Adelaide.
People from Adelaide move to the United States for different reasons, including to pursue a college degree, to start a professional career, or to explore a new place to live. Whether it be temporary or permanent, the shift can be challenging if you come unprepared.
And while many similarities exist between Australia and the USA, some differences are worth noting before you decide to temporarily relocate or move permanently. What follows is a list of five differences to expect when moving from Adelaide to the US.
Movers from Australia to the US often face a cultural shock when it comes to driving in the US. In Australia, driving on the left side of the road is common. But, in the United States, drivers are used to driving on the right side of the road.
Additionally, the steering wheel for drivers in Australia is generally placed on the right side of the vehicle. This differs from the traditional position of the steering wheel in the United States, which is placed on the left side. These differences can be challenging for new arrivals to adapt to during their relocation from Australia to the US.
Tip: Take note that everything is mirrored - from the traffic lights to the intersections to the roundabouts. It will take some time for you to get accustomed to it. But if you follow the rules and stay alert, you'll eventually get used to it and start driving normally as you should. In the end, most of it will be a matter of habit and you will soon be driving like a local.
Giving tips is a cultural difference to get used to when moving from Australia to the US. In Australia, tipping is not customary because it is considered to be a gesture of gratitude that is not required by law. Also, the minimum wage in the country is higher as compared to other countries, which justifies the fact that tips are unnecessary.
On the other hand, in the United States, people are expected to give tips for services provided in hotels, restaurants, taxis, and other establishments. Service providers also usually receive tips if they go the extra mile to make the experience of a customer extra special. So, if you're travelling from Australia to the United States, it will be necessary for you to adapt to this practice.
Tip: Accepting the tipping culture in the US may leave you uncomfortable for quite some time, but it would help if you start going out with acquaintances and new friends and observing how they do so. You may also ask or research the amount you're supposed to give when it's your turn.
Tax inclusion is something that might seem different between the two countries. When it comes to the price tag, an Australian who lived in a city like Adelaide might struggle to do the shopping for the first time in the US. In the US, items are sold without tax included in the price tag. The tax will add up once you pay the goods to the cashier.
This change can be jarring to those who are used to buying items with the total cost right on the price tag. It may take some time for some to shake off their worry about whether or not their cash is enough to pay for the total cost.
Tip: Use a credit card instead of paying in cash. This way, you won't be anxious about falling short when paying for your goods. You can always review the transaction details after your purchase and double-check if they have deducted the right amount of tax before you leave the store.
You may be used to the weather in Australia. During warmer months, temperatures typically range between 15.7°C and 35.8°C across the country, with Adelaide having an average temperature of 29°C during summer and 15°C during winter. It is typically hotter and drier as compared to the temperature in the US.
Depending on the state you will be relocating to, you may find that the temperature in the US is quite different compared to Adelaide. The northern part of the US can experience harsh winter weather with blizzards and intense cold spells while the southern part often experiences droughts. Typically, temperature ranges from 11.3 °C to 27.3°C during summer and -16.3°C to 19.7°C during winter across the country.
Tip: Before making the move, research first what the weather is like in the state you will be moving into. If you happen to move during the winter, it might be best to bring thick clothes, coats, and scarves especially if snow is expected in your area. You may declutter your wardrobe before moving so you'll have less to pack and bring to the US.
When you are a fan of travelling, it might not be new to you to find that the voltage in electrical outlets in the countries you visit differs from the ones you were used to in your home country. The same is true if you are moving from Australia to the US. Electrical outlets in Australia use 240V, twice the voltage used in the US, which is only 110V.
This means that if you decide to bring your 220-240V appliances to the US, you need to use a transformer or converter to make them work on a 110V power outlet. This way, you'll still be able to use them without damaging them or risking your safety.
Tip: Today, chargers of laptops and most gadgets are now operating in a range between 110V to 240V, so you may be able to use them in the US and almost anywhere in the world. However, for important equipment and appliances that you plan to bring, you may need to purchase a transformer or a converter, and a reliable international removal company to bring them safely to the US.
Adelaide to the US Removalists
Moving to the United States anytime soon? Make your next international move hassle-free and smooth by trusting our experienced team at Aussiemove International Movers for your next relocation. We have an extensive network of international movers with years of expertise in the industry and the right connections to make sure all your belongings are in good hands the moment they leave Adelaide up to their arrival in the USA.
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