Moving to Portugal: A Complete Guide

Portugal is an increasingly popular destination for expatriates, retirees, and professionals looking for a high quality of life, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming community. If you're planning an international move to Portugal, East Coast Shipping is here to help with a range of shipping services tailored to your needs.

Our Shipping Services to Portugal

We offer multiple options for transporting your household goods and personal effects to Portugal:

• Direct Less than Container Load (LCL): Ideal for smaller shipments that do not require a full container. Your items are shipped securely in a consolidated container directly to Portugal. 5-8 weeks approximately

• Groupage Service via Rotterdam or Antwerp: A cost-effective option where your shipment is combined with other consignments bound for Portugal and all over Europe. This method reduces costs but may take slightly longer due to the consolidation process. Transit time can be 2-4 months 

• Full Container Load (FCL): For those with larger moves, we offer 20ft and 40ft containers for exclusive use, providing the fastest and most secure shipping option. transit time 3-5 weeks approximately 

Customs Requirements for Moving to Portugal

When shipping household goods to Portugal, you must comply with Portuguese customs regulations. Below is a list of essential requirements:

• Passport Copy – A valid passport for identification purposes.

• Portuguese Residence Permit or Proof of Residency – Required to qualify for duty-free importation of used household goods.

• Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill – Issued by the shipping company.

• Inventory List – A detailed inventory of all shipped goods, preferably in Portuguese, listing the estimated value.

• Declaration of Ownership and Use – Confirming that items have been in your possession and used for at least six months.

• Portuguese Tax ID (NIF - Número de Identificação Fiscal) – Required for customs clearance.

• Customs Clearance Authorization – Authorizing a customs broker to handle the clearance on your behalf.

• Proof of Address in Portugal – Such as a rental agreement or property deed.

Additional Notes: Vehicles, alcohol, and certain electronic items may be subject to import duties and additional inspections.

Documents Required for Importing a Vehicle to Portugal

If you are bringing a car to Portugal, the following documents will be required:

• Original Vehicle Title and Registration – Proof of ownership.

• Portuguese Tax ID (NIF) – Required for customs clearance.

• Bill of Lading (BOL) – Issued by the shipping company.

• Proof of Residency in Portugal – Required for tax exemption eligibility.

• Inspection Certificate (Inspecção Técnica) – Conducted by a certified entity in Portugal.

• Homologation Certificate – To confirm the vehicle meets EU regulations.

• Customs Declaration Form – Declaring the importation of the vehicle.

• Insurance Certificate – Showing coverage for the vehicle in Portugal.

Important: Vehicles must be owned and used for at least six months before importation to qualify for duty exemptions. Additional registration taxes (ISV - Imposto Sobre Veículos) may apply based on engine size and emissions.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Portugal has restrictions on certain items being imported. The following are prohibited:

• Drugs and Narcotics – Including illegal substances and certain pharmaceuticals.

• Firearms and Ammunition – Requires special permits.

• Explosives and Hazardous Materials – Such as fireworks and chemicals.

• Endangered Species and Products – Items made from ivory, certain animal skins, or other protected wildlife.

• Counterfeit Goods – Including imitation brand-name products.

• Pornographic Material – Strictly regulated under Portuguese law.

Restricted Items: Items such as alcohol, tobacco, and high-value electronics may require additional duties, licenses, or import approvals.

Helpful Links for Moving to Portugal

• Portuguese Customs Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira): https://www.portaldasfinancas.gov.pt

• Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF): https://www.sef.pt

• Portuguese Tax Office (Finanças): https://www.portaldasfinancas.gov.pt

• Visa & Residency Information: https://www.vistos.mne.gov.pt

• Importing Vehicles to Portugal: https://www.imt-ip.pt

• Living in Portugal – Official Guide: https://www.visitportugal.com

Why Choose East Coast Shipping?

• Expertise in International Moves – Years of experience handling shipments to Portugal and beyond.

• Comprehensive Services – From packing and crating to customs clearance and delivery.

• Competitive Pricing – We offer affordable shipping solutions, including groupage, direct LCL, and FCL.

• Dedicated Customer Support – We guide you through every step of the moving process.

For more details or to request a quote for your move to Portugal, Contact Us today!

Frequently Asked Questions – Moving to Portugal from the USA

1. Do I need to go to the Portuguese Consulate before shipping my household goods?

Yes.
If you are applying for duty-free import of your household goods, you must obtain a Certificado de Bagagem (Luggage Certificate) from the Portuguese Consulate that serves your U.S. residence.

This document confirms:

• You lived in the United States for more than 12 consecutive months

• The date you are transferring your residence to Portugal

Your shipment must arrive after the transfer date listed on this certificate, otherwise Portuguese Customs may charge duties and taxes.

2. Do I need a detailed inventory list for the Consulate?

No.

The Consulate does not require a detailed packing list.
They are only certifying your transfer of residence.

A general household goods inventory will be required later for Portuguese Customs, and we will guide you through that process.

3. What documents do I need for Portuguese Customs clearance?

Typically, you will need:

• Certificado de Bagagem (Luggage Certificate)

• Portuguese NIF (tax number)

• Residence Certificate (Atestado de Residência) from your local Parish Council in Portugal

• Copy of passport

• Residence permit (or proof of AIMA appointment)

• Signed customs authorization forms

Our destination partner in Portugal will assist you step-by-step.

4. What is a NIF and do I need one before shipping?

A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number.

Yes, you will need a NIF with a Portuguese address in order to clear customs duty-free.

Most clients obtain their NIF before arrival, either:

• In person in Portugal

• Through a fiscal representative

• Through a legal or relocation service

5. Can my goods arrive in Portugal before I do?

Yes — but timing is important.

For duty-free import, the goods must arrive after your official transfer of residence date shown on the Consulate certificate.

If goods arrive too early, duties and taxes may apply.

We coordinate shipment timing carefully to avoid this issue.

6. How long does shipping to Portugal take?

Typical transit times:

• East Coast USA to Lisbon: 3–5 weeks at sea

• West Coast USA to Lisbon: 4–7 weeks

• Customs clearance and delivery: 5–10 business days after arrival

• Groupage shipments 2-3.5 months and vary depending on volume and season 

Timeframes may vary depending on port congestion, inspections, and documentation readiness.

7. Are there duties or taxes when moving to Portugal?

If you qualify for transfer-of-residence exemption and submit the proper documents, your used household goods are normally imported duty-free.

New items, high-value items, alcohol, or vehicles may be subject to duties or VAT.

8. Can I ship a car or motorcycle to Portugal?

Yes, but additional documentation is required, including:

• Title

• Proof of ownership for 6+ months

• Compliance with EU standards

• Vehicle inspection and registration in Portugal

We recommend discussing vehicle shipping separately before booking.

9. Can you store my goods in Portugal before delivery?

Yes.
Short-term storage is available if your residence is not ready upon arrival. Storage charges are typically calculated per cubic meter per month.

10. What items are prohibited when moving to Portugal?

Common restrictions include:

• Firearms and ammunition

• Certain food products

• Hazardous materials

• Large quantities of alcohol

We provide a full prohibited items checklist before packing.