If I was coming to South Africa now, knowing what I do, this is what I'd do differntly.
I'd get my visa sorted and in my hand before I did anything else...mind you I'd still need to choose a school in advance...to get the study visa.
First things first...
1. Visit the country you intend to move to
visit the banks, the mobile phone shops, find out who the car and house insurance companies are
find out what documents and conditions apply to do any of the above
drive around the area, hire a driver if necessary, look at various areas, prices for housing and visit as many schools as you can
get a list of house agents in advance, call them, find out rental prices, deposits
go shopping, especially the supermarkets, check out the cost of things, especailly cars and what requirements are in place to purchase one
talk to people
2. Use companies for the removal of your furniture based in the country you're moving to...they will know the regulations at customs, hidden charges etc..they will use a local agent in your home country that you will be able to communicate with. You need your visa number before they can ship your belongings.
3. If you own a property...do not move until you've either a) completed the sale or b) found tennants....it is cheaper and easier in the long run to rent a place than to leave your home country without having sorted yours out first, the same applies with all final bills associated with the property, the same also goes with a car, try and sell it as quick as possible or if you want to take it with you, get your country of arrival to arrange this.
4. get your post redirected to a busy person...someone that is prepared to open and scan your mail asap so you can sort any final demands quickly...you will also need a UK correspondence address for all mail associated with your bank accounts.
5. Make sure if you have temporary accomodation in your new country that it is in both your names, as you will need proof of residency to open up any and every account. In South Africa make sure you have at least one utility bill at your physical address in South Africa, if you choose to have a PO No.
