Moving to Spain means deciding what to take with you and how to get it there. From removals companies to customs exemptions, here’s how to move your possessions to Spain without stress.
Relocating to Spain is exciting, but the thought of transporting your entire household can feel daunting. Since Brexit, moving personal goods requires more planning, paperwork and sometimes customs checks. The good news is that, with the right preparation and a reliable removals partner, you can avoid unexpected taxes and get your belongings to Spain without stress
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Contents
- Choosing your removal company
- Insurance and planning ahead
- What’s exempt from customs and VAT
- Packing tips and regulations
- What to take and what to leave behind
- Bringing pets to Spain
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing your removal company
It pays to use a reputable removal firm, ideally a member of the British Association of Removers Overseas (BAR) or the Association of International Movers (IAM). A good company will handle customs declarations and guide you through the paperwork. To qualify for import duty and VAT exemptions, you’ll need to show proof of Spanish residency – for example, a TIE card, empadronamiento, or recent Spanish bank statement with your address.
You don’t have to provide this proof immediately, but it must be submitted within 12 months of gaining residency. Some buyers apply months before moving, as long as they can prove the move is genuine.
Insurance and planning ahead
Ask your removal company about their insurance policy. Does it cover goods once delivered? Do they include marine insurance if shipping by sea? What about storage before or after the move? Contact companies three to six months before moving – the best ones get booked quickly. Always request multiple quotes and check that prices include tolls, fuel and ferry fees.
What’s exempt from customs and VAT
Most household goods, including bikes, cars and pets, are exempt from duty if you meet these conditions:
- You have lived outside the EU for at least one year
- Items have been used for at least six months before the move
- Goods are for the same use in Spain as they were in the UK
| Item | Customs/VAT exempt? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Household goods (furniture, rugs, white goods) | Yes | Must have been used for 6+ months |
| Cars and motorbikes | Yes | Must be owned/used for 6+ months |
| Pets | Yes | With valid health and vaccination certificates |
| Plants | Yes | Only with a phytosanitary certificate confirming the plant is free from pests and diseases |
Packing tips and regulations
Plan for at least six weeks in transit. Keep essentials with you, label every box and supply your company with an inventory list. Regulations include draining fuel from machinery, removing batteries and cleaning garden tools. If your electrical appliances won’t work in Spain, consider selling them before you move. Storage may be cheaper in Spain than the UK, so compare options.
What to take and what to leave behind
Think carefully about your new lifestyle. Shutters replace heavy curtains in most homes, tiled floors make rugs more useful than carpets and outdoor furniture is a must. White goods are more expensive in Spain, so bringing quality appliances may be worthwhile. Bed sizes differ, so bring extra linens if you’re bringing your UK bed.
Bringing pets to Spain
Your pets are family – and welcome in Spain, provided you meet the rules. Dogs and cats must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. Dogs from the UK and other non-EU countries need tapeworm treatment. An EU animal health certificate is required if travelling from outside the EU. Always check the latest guidance from the UK government website before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move your belongings to Spain?
Costs vary depending on volume, distance, and whether you use air, road, or sea freight. A full household move typically ranges from £2,000-£7,500. Always compare at least three quotes from accredited movers.
Can I take personal belongings to Spain?
Yes – household items, cars and pets are permitted as long as they meet EU customs conditions. Certain restricted goods cannot be imported.
Do I need to pay import tax on personal products if moving to Spain?
If you’re a registered resident in Spain and the goods have been used for at least six months, you should be exempt from paying VAT and import duty. You’ll need to show proof of residency and provide paperwork within 12 months of arrival.
You might also like:
- Moving to Spain with pets
- Organising your finances for a move to Spain
- The biggest mistakes overseas buyers make in Spain – and how to avoid them
