Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about UK ⇄ EU removals and cross-border moving.
What is UK ⇄ EU removals service?
UK ⇄ EU removals is a cross-border moving service connecting you with EU-licensed carriers who specialize in international moves between the UK and European countries. Our carriers handle customs documentation, ferry/tunnel bookings, and door-to-door delivery across borders.
How much does UK to EU removals cost?
Prices are based on volume (m³) and distance (km). Typical costs: UK-France from £800-1,500, UK-Spain from £1,200-2,200, UK-Switzerland from £1,500-2,800. Factors include ferry costs (£200-400), customs clearance, and service tier. Use our quote form for accurate pricing.
Do I need customs documentation?
Yes. Post-Brexit, all UK ⇄ EU moves require customs declarations. For personal belongings, you may qualify for Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief with zero duties. Our Customs Copilot wizard helps you determine eligibility and generates the required CMR and inventory documents.
What is Transfer of Residence (ToR)?
ToR is a customs relief that allows you to import personal belongings duty-free when moving residence from UK to EU (or vice versa). You must have lived in your previous country for 12+ months and owned items for 6+ months. Our Customs Copilot checks your eligibility.
How long does a UK to EU move take?
Transit times vary by route: UK-France 2-3 days, UK-Spain 4-6 days, UK-Germany 3-5 days, UK-Switzerland 4-7 days. Customs clearance adds 1-3 days. Fixed slot bookings guarantee specific delivery windows. Flexible bookings offer lower prices with wider delivery windows.
Are your carriers EU-licensed?
Yes. All carriers on our platform hold valid EU Community Licences, O-licences, Transport Manager CPC certificates, and goods in transit insurance. We verify documentation before listing. Look for verification badges on carrier profiles.
Can you move pianos and fine art?
Yes. Many of our carriers specialize in piano transport (upright, grand, concert) and fine art shipping. Piano moves include climate-controlled transport, specialist packing, and hoist services where needed. Check carrier profiles for piano capability badges.
What about vehicles and motorbikes?
We can arrange vehicle transport UK ⇄ EU including cars, motorbikes, and classic vehicles. Enclosed transport available for high-value vehicles. Separate customs documentation required for vehicles. Contact carriers directly for vehicle-specific quotes.
Do you handle Switzerland moves?
Yes. Switzerland requires additional documentation (Form 18.44) as it's not in the EU customs union. Our carriers are Switzerland-ready with experience in Swiss customs procedures. Expect slightly longer transit times and additional paperwork.
What if I don't qualify for ToR relief?
You'll need to pay import duties and VAT on your belongings. Our Customs Copilot calculates estimated duties. Some items (new goods, commercial items) always require duties. Consider selling and rebuying locally if duties are high.
Can I track my shipment?
Most carriers offer GPS tracking and photo check-in/check-out services. You'll receive updates at key milestones: collection, ferry crossing, customs clearance, and delivery. Premium service tiers include real-time tracking.
Are my belongings insured?
All our carriers have goods in transit insurance. Standard coverage is typically £10,000-50,000. For high-value items (pianos, fine art, antiques), declare full value and consider additional insurance. Check carrier insurance limits before booking.
What items are prohibited?
Prohibited items include: weapons, drugs, hazardous materials, live plants (without phytosanitary certificates), certain foods, and counterfeit goods. E-bikes with lithium batteries require special handling. Check our customs guide for full restrictions.
Do I need to be present for collection/delivery?
Yes, or you can authorize someone to act on your behalf. You'll need to sign inventory documents at collection and delivery. For customs purposes, accurate inventory is essential. Photo check-in/out provides additional documentation.
Can I get a backload discount?
Yes. Backload services offer 30-50% savings when your move fits a carrier's return journey. Delivery windows are less flexible but prices are significantly lower. Check our backload UK to Europe page for current availability.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment methods vary by carrier. Most accept bank transfer, card payments, and some accept cash. Deposits (typically 20-30%) are common when booking. Final payment usually due before or on delivery. Discuss payment terms with your chosen carrier.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellation policies vary by carrier. Most allow free cancellation 7-14 days before collection. Later cancellations may forfeit deposits. Ferry/tunnel bookings are often non-refundable. Always clarify cancellation terms when booking.
Do you offer packing services?
Many carriers offer full or partial packing services for an additional fee. This includes specialist packing for fragile items, pianos, and fine art. DIY packing is cheaper but ensure items are properly protected for international transport.
What about pet relocation?
We provide information on pet relocation UK ⇄ EU but don't transport pets ourselves. Pets require separate pet travel services with proper documentation (pet passports, health certificates, microchips). See our pet relocation guide for approved providers.
How do I become a carrier on your platform?
Click 'Create Driver Account' in the header to register. You'll need to provide: EU Community Licence, O-licence, Transport Manager CPC, insurance certificates, and vehicle details. We verify all documentation before activating your profile. Listing is free.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Use our Customs Copilot wizard, browse EU carriers, or get in touch directly.