How UK ⇄ EU Removals Work
A complete guide to moving between the UK and EU, including customs procedures, documentation, and booking your removal.
The Process
Get a Quote
Enter your pickup and delivery locations, volume in m³, and any special requirements. Our system connects you with verified EU-licensed carriers who serve your route.
Prepare Customs Documents
Use our Customs Copilot to determine if you qualify for Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief and generate the required CMR documentation. We guide you through the entire process.
Book Your Slot
Choose your preferred carrier and service tier (Economy, Standard, or Priority). Select your ferry or tunnel crossing and confirm your booking dates.
Photo Check-In & Collection
On collection day, the carrier takes photos of all items and their condition. You receive copies for your records. Payment milestones are triggered at collection, border crossing, and delivery.
Delivery & Check-Out
Your items are delivered to your EU destination. Final photos are taken to confirm condition. You inspect everything and sign off on the delivery.
Understanding Customs
Transfer of Residence (ToR) Relief
ToR relief allows you to import your personal belongings duty-free when moving your residence from one country to another. To qualify, you typically need to:
- Have lived in your previous country for at least 12 months
- Be moving your normal residence to the new country
- Have owned and used the goods for at least 6 months
- Import the goods within 12 months of changing residence
Our Customs Copilot asks you the right questions to determine your eligibility and helps you prepare the necessary documentation.
CMR Documentation
The CMR (Convention relative au contrat de transport international de Marchandises par Route) is the international consignment note required for all cross-border road transport in Europe. It serves as:
- Proof of the contract of carriage
- Receipt for the goods
- Evidence of the condition of goods at collection
- Customs declaration document
We automatically generate your CMR from the inventory you provide, ensuring all required fields are completed correctly.
Switzerland (Non-EU)
Switzerland is not part of the EU, so moves to/from Switzerland require additional documentation including Form 18.44 for household goods. Our Customs Copilot includes specific guidance for Swiss moves.
Service Tiers Explained
Economy (Backload)
Your items share space with other shipments. Flexible dates required (typically ±3 days). Best value for non-urgent moves.
From £0.80/m³/km
Best for: Budget-conscious moves, flexible schedules, smaller volumes
Standard
Dedicated van for your move. Fixed collection and delivery dates. Most popular option with good balance of price and service.
From £1.20/m³/km
Best for: Full house moves, fixed schedules, medium to large volumes
Priority
Express service with guaranteed dates. Premium carriers with enhanced insurance. Fastest transit times available.
From £1.80/m³/km
Best for: Urgent moves, valuable items, time-sensitive relocations
Additional Services
Piano Moving
Specialist piano transport with trained movers and proper equipment. Covers upright, baby grand, and grand pianos. Hoist and stairs service available.
Learn more about piano moving →Assembly Service
Professional assembly and disassembly of furniture. Particularly useful for large wardrobes, beds, and modular furniture that won't fit through doorways.
Available as add-on during quote process
Storage Options
Short-term storage available if your delivery date doesn't align with your collection date. Secure facilities in both UK and EU locations.
Charged per m³ per week
Enhanced Insurance
All carriers have standard Goods-in-Transit insurance (typically £50k). Enhanced coverage available for high-value items or full replacement value.
Available as add-on during quote process
Carrier Verification
All carriers on our platform are verified to hold the necessary licences and insurance for international removals:
- Standard International O-Licence: Required for commercial transport of goods internationally
- UK Community Licence: Permits international road haulage within the EU
- Transport Manager CPC: Professional competence qualification for transport operations
- Goods-in-Transit Insurance: Minimum £50k coverage verified
- Public Liability Insurance: Minimum £2m coverage verified
Many carriers also have e-CMR capability (electronic CMR), piano moving training, and Switzerland-specific documentation expertise.
Ready to Get Started?
Get an instant quote from verified EU-licensed carriers. Enter your details below and we'll connect you with carriers who serve your route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a UK ⇄ EU move take?
Transit times vary by route. London to Paris typically takes 2-3 days, while London to Rome might take 4-5 days. Check specific route pages for detailed timing information.
Do I need to be present for collection and delivery?
Yes, or you can nominate someone to be present on your behalf. They'll need to sign the CMR and verify the photo check-in/out process.
What if my items are damaged?
All carriers have Goods-in-Transit insurance. The photo check-in/out process provides evidence of condition. Any damage claims should be noted on the delivery CMR and reported within 7 days.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes, carriers provide tracking updates at key milestones: collection, border crossing, and delivery. Many carriers also offer real-time GPS tracking.
What items cannot be transported?
Prohibited items include hazardous materials, weapons, illegal substances, and perishable food. Restricted items like alcohol and tobacco have quantity limits. Check with your carrier for specific restrictions.
More questions? Visit our full FAQ page or contact us.