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What does a European removal service actually include? The 2025 Guide.
6th January 2025
If you’re thinking about moving abroad to somewhere in Europe, we’ve broken down what happens during a European Removal Service and what it usually includes. Finding out how the service works, what it can include, and how to get your move started, can help you ease into your European move!
Before your move to Europe
Once you’re ready to move from the UK to Europe, the first step is to schedule a free, flexible virtual survey. In the comfort of your home, you can show the moving team all the items you want to move and discuss any special requirements. This is also a great time to ask questions about the process. After the survey, if you’re happy with the plan, you’ll receive a quote for your move.
Your assigned move manager will also help you complete inventory and declaration forms ahead of time, ensuring all taxes and customs are properly handled to avoid any extra charges later in the process.
During the Move
What happens on the moving day?
- Expert Packing & Preparation – On your moving day, the removal team will arrive to pack and secure your belongings for safe transport.
- Efficient Transport – Once packed, your items will be transported via your preferred shipping method—whether by road, sea, or air—ensuring a smooth journey to your new destination.
- Real-Time Updates – During the move, you’ll receive updates on your belongings’ location. Clear communication ensures you know where your items are in transit.
- Seamless Arrival & Unpacking – A trusted partner will unload and unpack your belongings at your new home, placing everything exactly where you want it.
Shipping types for your Personal Items
When shipping your items abroad, you have three main transport options: plane, boat, or lorry. With each method, there is lots to consider including turnaround times, costs, and specific shipping restrictions. Air freight is the fastest option, making it the most expensive, but can have more strict regulations on what can be shipped, including size and weight limitations. Sea shipping, on the other hand, is more cost-effective for larger loads, but it generally takes longer to reach your destination. Lorry (road) transport is another popular choice for Europe, especially if you’re not in a hurry; It’s reliable and cost-efficient, provided you book in advance to secure the best rates.
Extra Shipping Services you might need when moving to Europe
When planning a move to Europe, many people want to bring more than just household items. Some removal services offer options to transport pets and vehicles safely and securely.
Pet Shipping
Depending on where in Europe you’re moving to, there are several options for transportation, including air travel, ferry, or the Channel Tunnel. If you’re flying, your pet will need to be sedated and placed in the hold of the plane—our pet shipping partner will handle this for you.
However, the most popular and often easiest methods for moving pets within Europe are by ferry or the Channel Tunnel. With these options, your pet can travel with you in a secure, comfortable environment, either in the car or under the supervision of a professional pet transport company. Just be sure to have all necessary vet checks done ahead of time. This includes confirming that your pet has the required vaccinations, bloodwork and passes any health tests required by your destination country.
Vehicle Shipping
When it comes to transporting your car abroad, there are three main options to consider: Container Shipping, Roll-On Roll-Off (Ro-Ro) Shipping, and Air Freight. Container Shipping and Ro-Ro Shipping, take a longer amount of time, but are much cheaper. For those who need to get their car to its new destination quickly, Air Freight is the fastest option, though it can be more expensive. There are also rules and regulations that you must research when shipping your vehicle.
That said, before you decide, keep in mind that in most European countries, cars drive on the opposite side of the road, with the driver seated on the left. This might make it worth considering selling your car and purchasing a new one once you’ve settled into your new home.
Wanting to move to Europe? Contact us to enquire, or organise your virtual survey today, and get ready for your European move!
