✅ Relocation Packing & Prep Checklist for Corporate Employees Moving to Puerto Rico

Essential Guide for a Smooth and Informed Move to the Island

🗂️ Important Personal & Official Documents

• Passport (if applicable, for travel purposes)
• Valid U.S. federal or state-issued ID or driver’s license
• Driver’s license from country of origin (for validation or transfer)
• Social Security card
• Birth certificate(s) for all relocating family members
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if relevant)
• Work permit or employment contract
• Company relocation or assignment letters
• Medical records (vaccinations, chronic conditions, allergies)
• School transcripts (for dependents)
• Pet vaccination and health certificates
• Tax returns from the past 2 years
• Lease, property deed, or housing confirmation

Note: These documents are hard to replace once in Puerto Rico. Keep originals and digital backups.

💼 Professional Tools & Work Essentials

• Laptop, charger, and accessories
• External monitor and docking station (if used regularly)
• Work phone and headset
• External drive or USB stick
• Corporate badge or access card
• Planner or office supplies
• VPN tokens or licenses for remote access

Available Locally: Tech accessories are available, but brand/model options may be limited.

👚 Clothing & Personal Items

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for tropical weather
• Business casual and formal outfits for meetings
• Comfortable shoes, sandals, and rain gear
• Swimwear, beach towel, and sunglasses
• Light jacket or sweater for A/C environments
• Preferred brands of skincare, sunblock, and personal hygiene products

Note: Many common clothing and toiletries are available locally, but specialty or organic brands may be limited.

🏠 Household Essentials – What to Ship vs Buy in PR

✔ Recommended to Bring:

• One set of sheets and towels per person
• Kitchen gadgets (e.g., blender, sharp knives, favorite utensils)
• Extension cords and power strips
• Sentimental or irreplaceable home items
• Eco-friendly or niche household brands

✖ Don’t Bring:

• Large appliances or major furniture (costly to ship, may not fit new home)
• Firearms or ammunition (heavily regulated and often prohibited)
• Agricultural items, seeds, or live plants (customs restrictions)

Note: Furnishings and appliances are available island-wide, but may be pricier than U.S. mainland.

🚗 Vehicle & Transportation Items

• Title and registration if shipping a vehicle
• Driver’s license (state or foreign)
• Vehicle insurance documents
• Spare key

Tip: Consider costs and delays for car importation and registration. Buying on-island may be easier for shorter assignments.

💊 Health & Wellness Essentials

• 1–3 month supply of prescription medication
• Copy of prescriptions (in English and Spanish if possible)
• First-aid kit and favorite OTC brands
• Vitamins and supplements
• Eyeglasses and extra contact lenses

Note: Pharmacies are widely available but bring what you rely on, especially for chronic or specific conditions.

🧠 Cultural, Environmental & Practical Alerts

• Weather: Year-round heat and humidity; hurricane season runs June–November
• Noise: Metro areas can be loud—music, coquí frogs, roosters, and fireworks are common
• Language: English used in business, but daily life often requires basic Spanish
• Utilities & Bureaucracy: Expect delays and follow-up—bring patience and flexibility
• Security: Gated communities are common; be street smart in unfamiliar areas
• Prohibited Items: No weapons, illegal drugs, invasive species, or unauthorized imports

🧳 Final Tips Before Departure

• Pack a carry-on with 3 days’ essentials (clothes, toiletries, documents)
• Digitize all important paperwork
• Contact banks and credit cards with address change
• Set up utilities and internet in advance if possible
• Join local expat or newcomer communities online

Need more help with your relocation? Contact Coquí Destination & Relocation Services for tailored corporate support, family settling-in services, and local insights.