Since January 2015, it has been possible to save money on the conversion of motor vehicles because the existing license plate can be maintained nationwide. However, you will not be able to make a change, but you will need to go to the vehicle registration office. A tip from the relocation gurus: When you register your new place of residence, ask for the details of the vehicle registration, in many cities and municipalities, you can also take this step at the local tourist office.

For the registration of your vehicle, the usual documents are required in both cases, including the vehicle registration, a certificate of the insurance, a proof of the last main examination and a SEPA direct debit mandate for the vehicle tax. Furthermore, you should think of cash in order to be able to pay the fees for the conversion.

Services in time

Also think of your utilities for electricity, water and gas. Inquire at an early stage with your utilities whether you are able to continue using their services at the new place of residence and, if necessary, take measures for switching to a new provider. Otherwise, start at the new location with the expensive tariffs of the local primary care provider.

Tip of the relocation gurus: Make sure you write down all the counts on the old place of residence and give them to the supplier. You should also do the same at the new place of residence so that you have all the data at hand when the new contract is concluded.

Special attention should also be paid to your telephone provider. Please inform your par- ticipant of your move at an early stage so that you can have complete telephone and Internet access.

In addition, you should inform institutions such as the house bank, insurance companies, health insurance funds, mobile phone providers, associations, mail-order companies, etc. in good time to prevent problems. In any case, it is advisable to send a forwarding application for mailings, in spite of all due diligence during the planning process.