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Your One-Stop Guide for Moving to Europe
Moving to Europe requires the right planning, paperwork, and shipping method. Each country has its own customs procedures, destination charges, parking rules, delivery access issues, and documentation requirements.
East Coast Shipping helps customers move household goods, personal effects, vehicles, motorcycles, artwork, antiques, and specialty items from the USA to destinations throughout Europe.
Popular Europe Moving Destinations
Customs guidance, Bremen/Bremerhaven routing, SOFA notes, and delivery planning. Moving to France
Household goods, customs, vehicles, and destination delivery throughout France. Moving to Spain
Customs information, returning resident guidance, and shipment options. Moving to Italy
Shipping household goods, personal effects, autos, and destination planning. Moving to Ireland
Transfer of Residence, customs, and delivery guidance for Ireland. Moving to Portugal
Consulate documents, Certificado de Bagagem, NIF notes, and destination delivery. Moving to Switzerland
Customs, residence documents, and household goods delivery planning. Other European Destinations
Ask us about Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Cyprus, Greece, and more.
Shipping Options to Europe
LCL Shipping
Best for smaller shipments that do not need a full container.
- Good for boxes, small furniture, and partial moves
- Charged by volume
- More handling than FCL or groupage
- Can have higher destination handling charges
Shared Container / Groupage
A cost-effective option for customers who can be flexible on timing.
- Consolidated with other household goods shipments
- Popular for Europe-bound moves
- Good value for small to medium shipments
- Transit depends on consolidation schedule
Full Container Load
Recommended for larger moves or customers who want exclusive container use.
- 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft high cube options
- Less handling than shared options
- Good for full household moves
- Can include autos or motorcycles in some cases
Air Freight
Best for urgent, smaller shipments.
- Fastest option
- Usually best for boxes, baggage, documents, or urgent essentials
- Charged by actual or dimensional weight
- Higher cost than ocean shipping
Europe Customs Basics for Household Goods
Many European countries allow used household goods and personal effects to enter duty and tax free when the customer is transferring normal residence. The exact process varies by country, but common requirements include proof of residence, detailed inventories, and evidence that goods were owned and used before shipment.
- Goods should generally be used personal effects, not new commercial goods
- Many EU countries require goods to have been owned and used before the move, often for at least 6 months
- Many countries require import within a limited period after moving, often around 12 months
- Goods may not be sold immediately after import
- Detailed inventories are important for customs clearance
The European Commission describes duty relief as an exception that can allow goods to be imported without duties under specific circumstances. Individual country procedures still apply, so requirements should always be reviewed before shipping.
Documents Commonly Needed for European Moves
- Passport copy
- Detailed inventory / packing list
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Destination address and contact information
- Visa or residence permit where applicable
- Proof of residence abroad
- Proof of new residence in destination country
- Employer letter, school letter, lease, registration, or consulate documents where required
- Vehicle title / registration documents if shipping an auto or motorcycle
- Special permits for restricted items if applicable
Destination Delivery Planning in Europe
European delivery access can be more complicated than U.S. delivery access. Historic city centers, narrow streets, apartment buildings, parking restrictions, and elevator limitations can affect delivery cost and timing.
- Parking permits may be required in cities
- Shuttle service may be needed if a large truck cannot access the residence
- Long carry or stair carry may apply
- Elevator reservations may be needed for apartments
- Outdoor lifts or hoisting may be needed in some European cities
- Storage may be needed if customs or delivery access is delayed
Shipping Cars, Motorcycles & Specialty Items to Europe
Vehicles, motorcycles, boats, pianos, artwork, antiques, and oversized items should be reviewed carefully before booking. Vehicle import rules, taxes, registration requirements, and technical compliance vary by destination country.
- Vehicles may require title validation and export filing before departure from the USA
- Destination taxes and registration requirements vary by country
- Motorcycles and autos may require special loading, blocking, bracing, or crating
- Artwork, antiques, and high-value items may require special packing or insurance review
Why Choose East Coast Shipping for Europe Moves
We regularly handle shared container and LCL shipments to Europe.
We work with experienced European destination partners for customs and delivery.
We help customers understand the documentation needed before export.
Choose from LCL, groupage, FCL, air freight, or specialty shipping.
Latest Europe Moving & Shipping Updates
Last updated: May 2026
European port congestion remains an important planning factor
Major European gateways such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hamburg have faced congestion and inland transport pressure in recent years. Customers moving to Europe should allow flexibility around sailing schedules, customs clearance, and delivery timing.
Customs paperwork is still one of the biggest causes of delays
Across Europe, incomplete residence documents, vague inventories, or missing customs forms can delay clearance. Clear, detailed packing lists and early document preparation are especially important for Germany, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Ireland, and Switzerland.
Peak moving season can affect mover and truck availability
Summer remains one of the busiest seasons for international moving. Booking early helps secure origin movers, destination delivery crews, container space, and better planning around holidays and port schedules.
Helpful Europe Moving Resources
Helpful links for customs, country information, and planning your move to Europe.
Ready to Move to Europe?
Get a fast, accurate quote and expert guidance for shipping household goods, personal effects, vehicles, and specialty items to Europe.
Need a Quote?
Give us a call at:
Toll Free 888-238-0180
Local 954-736-4706
Fax 954 241 3456
Or use our email form and we'll get back to you within 24 hours!
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