Successfully Moving Outside Europe: Your Complete Guide

More complex regulations and customs when moving outside Europe

Moving outside Europe is considerably more complex than moving within the EU. While the free movement of goods and people within Europe is much easier, you have to take into account strict customs procedures, import duties and different rules per country when moving intercontinentally. These factors have a direct impact on planning, costs and administrative preparation.

Why regulations are more complex outside Europe

1. No free movement of goods
   Outside the EU, there are customs controls. Each country has its own rules for importing personal belongings.
2. Import duties and taxes
   Some countries levy import duties or VAT on your household goods, unless you can prove that the items are used and personal property.
3. Restrictions on certain goods
   Not all items can simply be taken along. Food, plants, animals, weapons, medicines and certain electronic devices may be subject to strict rules or prohibitions.
4. Strict document requirements
   Countries often require a comprehensive inventory list, passport copies, visa or residence documents, and sometimes sworn translations of these documents.
5. Extra checks
   Especially with countries like the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand there are intensive inspections. This can lead to longer waiting times and extra costs for customs clearance.

Examples of customs procedures outside Europe

• United States:
• Household goods must be declared with US Customs and Border Protection.
• A detailed inventory list and customs form (CBP Form 3299) are required.
• Strict rules for food, wood products and medicines.
• Australia:
• Quarantine control is mandatory; goods such as wood, leather and plants may be refused or must be treated first.
• Checks can lead to storage or disinfection costs.
• Switzerland (non-EU, but Europe):
• Customs formalities are required, although exemption often applies if you bring personal belongings for permanent relocation.

Costs and consequences

• Clearance costs: €200 – €500 per container or shipment.
• Storage costs in case of delay due to customs: €50 – €150 per day.
• Handling costs for controlled goods (e.g. wood or food): highly dependent on country, often several hundred euros.

A container that is checked extra upon arrival can therefore incur up to €1,000 in extra costs.

Practical tips

• Start collecting all the necessary documents early.
• Provide a detailed inventory list in the language of the destination country (English is often required).
• Leave prohibited or risky goods (such as plants, certain foods and hazardous substances) behind in the Netherlands.
• Work with a moving company that has experience with the specific country of destination.
• Keep a financial buffer for unexpected customs clearance or storage costs.

Jeofferte.nl and customs expertise

Via jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that specialize in removals outside Europe. These companies know exactly which documents are needed, how customs procedures work and what additional costs you can expect. By comparing quotes, you can immediately see which movers are transparent about customs clearance and what support they offer.

Conclusion

Moving outside Europe almost always means dealing with more complex regulations and customs formalities. This requires careful preparation and the right expertise. By making clear agreements in advance and comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you choose a moving partner that professionally guides these procedures and helps prevent unexpected costs.

Higher transport costs for a move outside Europe

Moving outside Europe almost always involves higher transport costs than moving within the EU. This is due to the large distances, the complexity of the transport and the need for sea or air freight. For families or companies moving intercontinentally, transport can be the largest cost item of the entire moving process.

Why transport outside Europe is more expensive

1. Greater distances
   Where a moving van can drive directly within Europe, ships or airplanes are necessary for intercontinental moves.
2. Choice between sea and air freight
• Sea freight: cheaper, but slower (4–8 weeks).
• Air freight: faster (a few days), but often 3 to 5 times more expensive.
3. Port and airport costs
   In addition to the transport itself, you pay extra for transshipment, customs clearance, port tax and storage.
4. Storage and waiting time
   Due to customs checks or delays, your container may be temporarily stored, which entails extra costs.
5. Insurance and risks
   Because transport routes are longer and more complex, insurance premiums are higher.

Cost indication of intercontinental transport

• Sea freight (20ft container, approx. 30 m³ of household effects)
• Netherlands → USA: €4,000 – €7,000
• Netherlands → Australia: €6,000 – €10,000
• Air freight (500 kg of goods)
• Netherlands → USA: €5,000 – €7,000
• Netherlands → Asia: €6,000 – €9,000
• Extra costs
• Port handling: €500 – €1,500
• Customs clearance: €200 – €500
• Temporary storage: €50 – €150 per day

Comparison with European move

• Netherlands → Spain (30 m³ of household goods): €4,500 – €7,000
• Netherlands → USA (same volume): €8,000 – €15,000

The difference can therefore be up to more than double.

Example situation

A couple moves from Amsterdam to Toronto (Canada) with a 20ft container full of furniture.

• Sea freight: €6,200
• Port and customs clearance costs: €900
• Storage for 10 days due to customs inspection: €600
  Total transport costs: €7,700

A similar move from Amsterdam to Rome (Italy) would only cost €5,000, including transport and local permits.

Practical tips to reduce transport costs

• Choose sea freight instead of air freight, unless speed is crucial.
• Consider groupage (shared container transport) if you have less volume.
• Plan well in advance so you can take advantage of favorable rates and avoid paying rush surcharges.
• Minimize the amount of goods: sell or donate items that are cheaper to buy new than to transport.
• Compare quotes carefully, including additional port and customs clearance costs.

Jeofferte.nl and transparent price comparison

Via jeofferte.nl you can easily request quotes from moving companies that specialize in international moves. The quotes provide insight into the total transport costs, including sea or air freight, port handling and insurance. This way you avoid surprises and you can immediately see which company offers the most complete and transparent price.

Conclusion

Transport costs are considerably higher for a move outside Europe than for a European move. Distance, transport method and extra port costs make this the biggest cost item of the journey. By planning smartly, limiting your volume and comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you can keep a grip on costs and avoid surprises.

Longer lead times for a move outside Europe

Moving outside Europe takes considerably more time than moving within the EU. This has to do with the large distances, the chosen transport method and the complexity of customs procedures. Where a move within Europe is often completed within a few days, you must take into account weeks to months lead time for an intercontinental move.

Why the lead times are longer

1. Distance and transport method
• Sea freight is the most used method, but takes 4 to 8 weeks or longer, depending on destination and shipping route.
• Air freight is faster (a few days), but often only suitable for smaller volumes due to the high costs.
2. Customs and security checks
   Strict controls apply outside the EU. Clearing a container can take days to weeks, especially in countries like Australia, Canada or the USA.
3. Port and logistics delays
   Congestion in ports, strikes or weather conditions can delay planning.
4. Additional transshipment points
   Containers are often transshipped in large ports (e.g. Rotterdam, Hamburg or Singapore), which increases the chance of delay.
5. Storage pending delivery of home
   If the new home is not yet available, the household effects must be temporarily stored, which further extends the lead time.

Indications of lead times

• Netherlands → United States (sea freight): 6 – 8 weeks
• Netherlands → Canada (sea freight): 6 – 9 weeks
• Netherlands → Australia / New Zealand (sea freight): 8 – 12 weeks
• Netherlands → Asia (sea freight, e.g. China or Singapore): 6 – 10 weeks
• Netherlands → United States (air freight, 500 kg): 3 – 7 days
• Netherlands → Australia (air freight, 500 kg): 5 – 10 days

For comparison:

• Netherlands → Spain (road transport): 5 – 8 days
• Netherlands → Germany (road transport): 1 – 3 days

The difference can therefore range from a few days for European removals to two to three months for intercontinental removals.

Example situation

A family is moving from Amsterdam to Sydney (Australia) with a 40ft container:

• Loading in the Netherlands: week 1
• Sea freight to Sydney: week 2–9
• Customs + quarantine control: week 10–11
• Delivery to new home: week 12

Total lead time: approx. 12 weeks.

For comparison: the same family moving to Rome could be in their new home within a week.

Practical tips

• Plan the moving date well in advance and take into account the longer transport time.
• Take the most important items (clothing, documents, electronics) with you in your luggage or send them ahead by air freight.
• Arrange for temporary housing or rental furniture in the new country.
• Ask the moving company for a clear indication of the transport time and possible delays.
• Always allow for a buffer of at least 2 weeks extra.

Jeofferte.nl and insight into lead times

When requesting quotes via jeofferte.nl, you can immediately see which transport method moving companies propose and what the estimated lead time is. Some companies offer combined solutions, such as part of the household goods via air freight (faster) and the rest via sea freight (cheaper). By comparing quotes, you get a clear picture of the balance between speed and costs.

Conclusion

Moving outside Europe involves significantly longer lead times than moving within Europe. This is the result of greater distances, sea and air transport, customs controls and logistical complexity. By planning well in advance, keeping necessary items separate and comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you ensure that your move runs efficiently and without unexpected delays.

Visa and residence permit for a move outside Europe

One of the biggest differences between a move within and outside Europe is the need for a visa and/or residence permit. While there is free movement of people within the EU, this is not the case outside Europe. Each country has its own rules and procedures for admission, residence and work. These legal formalities are often complex and time-consuming and must be arranged well in advance.

Why a visa or residence permit is needed

1. No free movement of people
   Outside the EU/EEA you cannot simply live or work. Each country sets its own admission requirements.
2. Purpose of the stay
   The type of visa or permit depends on your situation: work, study, family reunification, pension or long-term emigration.
3. Validity and extension
   A visa is usually temporary and must be converted or extended into a residence permit after a period of time.
4. Consequences for work and rights
   Without the correct documents, you often have no right to work, healthcare or social benefits in the new country.

Examples per country

• United States
• Known for strict visa procedures.
• Common options: H-1B (work), F-1 (study), Green Card Lottery.
• Applications can take months and often require sponsorship by an employer.
• Canada
• Relatively transparent system, with Express Entry for highly skilled migrants.
• Also temporary work permits and family programs possible.
• Australia
• Has a points system where age, education, work experience and language skills are decisive.
• Many visas have a waiting time of 6 to 12 months.
• Switzerland
• Although close to Europe, strictly regulated. Employees often need a pre-approved work permit.

Documents and Requirements

For most countries, you should consider the following documents:

• Valid passport (sometimes valid for at least 6 months after arrival).
• Employment contract or proof of enrollment in education.
• Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) or police certificate.
• Proof of financial solvency.
• Medical examination or vaccination certificate.
• Passport photos and official forms in the language of the country.

Cost indication

• Visa costs: range from €100 to €600 per application.
• Medical examination: €200 – €500, depending on the country.
• Translations and legalizations: €20 – €50 per document, this can add up considerably with multiple documents.

Example situation

A couple moves to Australia for work.

• Visa application: €450 per person.
• Medical examination: €350 per person.
• Legalization of documents (marriage certificate, diplomas): €200 total.
  Total costs for visa and residence permit: over €1,500, not including transport and moving services.

Practical tips

• Start well in advance (6–12 months), as procedures can take a long time.
• Check if there are special arrangements for your situation (e.g. expats, students, pensioners).
• Consider family members: each member needs their own visa or permit.
• Have official documents translated and legalized by recognized authorities.
• Combine the application with other preparations, such as health insurance or school registration.

Jeofferte.nl and preparation

Although jeofferte.nl does not arrange visas or permits, the platform does help to find moving companies that have experience with your destination. These companies often know which documents for transport and customs match the visa and residence procedures. This prevents transport and legal admission from running alongside each other.

Conclusion

A move outside Europe is impossible without a valid visa and residence permit. The procedures are often complex, time-consuming and costly, and vary greatly from country to country. By starting on time, collecting the correct documents and seeking support from specialized moving companies via jeofferte.nl, you ensure that your move does not get stuck on administrative obstacles.

Customized insurance for a move outside Europe

An international move outside Europe carries more risks than a move within the EU. Long transport times, multiple transshipment points, strict customs controls and often complex logistics increase the risk of damage, loss or delay. Therefore, customized insurance is not a luxury, but a necessity.

Why standard insurance is not sufficient

1. Limited liability of movers
   Moving companies often use a maximum compensation per kilo or cubic meter. This amount is much lower than the actual value of your possessions.
2. More risks along the way
   In intercontinental transport there are more links: loading, transshipment in ports, sea or air transport, customs inspections and local transport in the destination country. Each of these links increases the risk.
3. Longer lead time
   The longer the journey, the greater the chance of incidents such as water damage, theft or delay.
4. Specific goods
   Art, antiques, musical instruments and electronics often require additional or specialized coverage.

Types of insurance for a move outside Europe

1. All-risk transport insurance
• Coverage of damage or loss of household goods, regardless of cause (unless excluded in the policy).
• Premium: usually 2% – 4% of the total value of the household goods.
2. Storage insurance
• Covers risks during temporary storage in port warehouses or in case of delay due to customs.
• Especially important for removals to countries with strict controls (e.g. Australia, USA).
3. Additional insurance
• For special or valuable possessions such as art, antiques or vehicles.
• Often requires a separate valuation to determine the value.
4. Consequential loss insurance
• Covers costs of delays, such as temporary furniture rental or extra accommodation costs.
• Less common, but sometimes desirable for moves with tight deadlines.

Cost indication

• Household contents of €50,000 → all-risk insurance: approx. €1,000 – €2,000.
• Storage insurance: €50 – €150 per month.
• Additional art insurance (value €10,000): approx. €200 – €400 extra.

Example situation

A family is moving from Rotterdam to Toronto (Canada) with a 30 m³ container.

• Basic insurance (standard): only covers €1.25 per kilo. For a damaged sofa of €2,000, the compensation would only be €50.
• All-risk insurance (premium €1,200): full coverage in case of damage, including transport and storage.

By choosing a customized insurance they avoid a major financial risk.

Practical tips

• Make a realistic inventory of your household contents and state the value correctly to avoid underinsurance.
• Check whether the policy also covers damage during storage and customs inspections.
• Have valuable items professionally packed; otherwise, the insurer may refuse to pay out.
• Ask about exclusions, such as damage due to own packaging or transport of hazardous substances.
• Consider separate coverage for valuables or vehicles.

Jeofferte.nl and insurance options

Via jeofferte.nl you can request quotes that show directly which insurances are included as standard and which can be added optionally. Because moving companies differ in transparency and policy conditions, this platform helps you to compare the coverage clearly and choose a customized insurance that suits your situation.

Conclusion

When moving outside Europe, customized insurance is indispensable. The higher risks, longer transport times and strict customs procedures often make standard coverage insufficient. By choosing the right insurance in advance and comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you ensure that your valuable household contents are well protected against unexpected damage or loss.

Use of sea or air freight for a move outside Europe

When moving outside Europe, sea and air freight are the two main transport methods. Unlike moves within Europe, where road transport is often sufficient, you must always choose one of these – or a combination of both – for intercontinental moves. The choice has a major impact on the costs, speed, risks and practical execution of your move.

Sea Freight

Sea freight is the most widely used method for international moves worldwide. Your household effects are loaded into a container and shipped to the port of destination.

Advantages

• Cost-effective: much cheaper than air freight, especially for larger volumes.
• Suitable for complete household effects: a container can hold an entire household.
• Various options:
• FCL (Full Container Load): you rent an entire container (20ft or 40ft).
• LCL (Less than Container Load / groupage): you share the container with others, ideal for smaller household effects.

Disadvantages

• Longer lead time: 4–12 weeks depending on destination.
• Port handling and customs: can lead to delays and extra costs.
• Risk of delay: due to weather conditions or port strikes.

Cost indication

• 20ft container (approx. 30 m³): €4,000 – €8,000 depending on destination.
• 40ft container (approx. 60 m³): €7,000 – €12,000.

Air freight

Air freight is mainly chosen for smaller volumes or valuable items that are needed quickly at the destination.

Advantages

• Speed: household effects can be delivered within a few days.
• Ideal for urgent matters: for example, personal documents, clothing or business goods.
• Less chance of damage due to shorter transport time.

Disadvantages

• Much more expensive than sea freight: air freight often costs 3–5 times as much.
• Limited capacity: not suitable for a complete household contents.
• Strict rules for dangerous goods: certain items are not allowed.

Cost indication

• 500 kg air freight to the USA: €5,000 – €7,000.
• 500 kg air freight to Asia: €6,000 – €9,000.

Combination of sea and air freight

Many movers also offer hybrid solutions:

• Part of the household contents (furniture, large items) by sea freight.
• A smaller, essential part (clothing, documents, electronics) by air freight.

This approach combines the low costs of sea freight with the speed of air freight, but requires good planning and coordination.

Example situations

• Family moves to Australia (full household contents, 40ft container)
• Sea freight: approx. €9,000, delivery time 10–12 weeks.
• Possibly air freight for 300 kg of personal belongings: €4,500 extra.
• Expat moves to the US (limited household contents)
• 15 m³ via LCL groupage: €3,800, delivery time 7 weeks.
• Important items via air freight: €2,000.

Practical Tips

• Make a clear inventory list and determine which items you need immediately.
• Consider groupage for smaller household effects; this can save thousands of euros.
• Plan well in advance: sea freight requires a lot of preparation.
• Take into account customs formalities and port handling fees, which vary greatly from country to country.
• Ask the moving company about tracking options so you can track your container or shipment.

Jeofferte.nl and the choice between sea and air

When requesting quotes via jeofferte.nl you can indicate whether you prefer sea freight, air freight or a combination. Moving companies then provide insight into costs, lead times and conditions. This allows you to quickly see which company offers the most suitable and transparent solution for your situation.

Conclusion

The choice between sea or air freight is critical for the costs and lead time of a move outside Europe. Sea freight is cheaper for large volumes, air freight is faster but more expensive and limited. Often a combination is the most practical solution. With jeofferte.nl you can easily compare the options and find a moving company that offers the right balance between price, speed and security.

Storage options en route for a move outside Europe

When moving outside Europe, it is not always possible for your belongings to be transported directly from your old home to your new home. The journey is often longer and more complex, with sea or air transport, customs formalities and multiple transshipment points. This regularly creates the need for temporary storage en route. This can be done both in the country of departure, during transport, and in the country of destination.

Why storage en route may be necessary

1. Difference in moving and delivery date
   Your old home must be vacated earlier, while your new home is not yet available.
2. Customs procedures
   Containers or air freight shipments may be delayed by checks. During this waiting period, the household effects must often be placed in a secure storage.
3. Logistical planning
   With groupage (shared container transport), the load can only depart when the container is full. This sometimes means weeks of extra storage.
4. Phased relocation
   Part of your household effects will go directly with you, while the rest will be temporarily stored until you need it.
5. Temporary emigration
   If you are going abroad for a few years, you can store some of your belongings in the Netherlands and only take the essentials with you.

Types of storage options

1. Storage in the country of departure
• Often in warehouses of moving companies or port facilities.
• Useful if you do not yet have a definitive moving date.
2. Storage en route (transit storage)
• Storage in international hubs, such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg or Singapore.
• Often used for groupage or transshipment.
3. Storage in the destination country
• Upon arrival at the port or airport, the contents can be stored in a customs warehouse or in the storage facilities of the local moving partner.
• Necessary if your home is not yet ready or if customs clearance is delayed.

Cost indication

• Storage at moving company: €5 – €10 per m³ per month.
• Container storage (20ft): €150 – €300 per month.
• Storage in a customs warehouse: €50 – €150 per day, depending on country and facility.
• Extra handling costs: €200 – €500 for loading and unloading the container.

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Example Situation

A family moves from Rotterdam to Sydney (Australia).

• The container arrives after 9 weeks, but their home is only available 3 weeks later.
• Storage in Sydney with a partner mover: €250 per month for 30 m³.
• Total for 3 weeks storage + handling: €400.

Another family moves to the US with groupage:

• Their belongings remain in storage in Rotterdam for 6 weeks until the container is filled.
• Costs: €900 storage and handling.

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Practical Tips

• Distinguish in advance between items you need immediately and items that can safely be stored temporarily.
• Ask explicitly about insurance coverage during storage. Damage or theft is not always covered by standard transport insurance.
• Check whether the storage location is secured and has climate control if necessary (important for furniture, electronics or art).
• Take into account extra handling costs for multiple loading and unloading.
• Preferably plan a buffer: delays at customs or port are more the rule than the exception.

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Jeofferte.nl and storage comparison

Via jeofferte.nl you can request quotes in which moving companies directly indicate whether storage is possible en route and what costs are involved. Some international movers have their own storage facilities in multiple countries or work with permanent partners. By comparing quotes, you can immediately see which companies are transparent about rates and conditions, and where you can find the most reliable solution.

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Conclusion

Storage options en route are often a necessary part of a move outside Europe. Whether it concerns delays due to customs, differences in moving and delivery dates or a phased move: with good planning and clear agreements you avoid problems and unexpected costs. By comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you choose a moving partner that not only offers transport, but also reliable storage options en route.

 

Cultural and logistical differences when moving outside Europe

Moving outside Europe involves more than just transporting your belongings. You will also encounter cultural and logistical differences that directly affect the moving process and your daily life after arrival. These differences are often greater than within Europe, and they require careful preparation and guidance.

Cultural differences

1. Language barriers
   Outside of Europe, English is not always the standard. In countries like China, Japan or South America, communication with local authorities without language skills is difficult.
2. Formal customs and bureaucracy
• In some countries (e.g. India or Brazil), bureaucracy can be cumbersome and everything proceeds more slowly.
• In other countries (e.g. the US or Canada), rules are often very strict and structured.
3. Work and social customs
   Punctuality, hierarchy and social customs vary greatly from culture to culture. A flexible attitude helps to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Social integration
   Getting used to local eating habits, social customs and holidays plays an important role in a successful relocation.

Logistical differences

1. Infrastructure and accessibility
• In large cities (e.g. New York, Hong Kong), homes are often difficult to reach for large trucks. Shuttle services or furniture elevators are then necessary.
• In less developed areas, the infrastructure may be limited, which causes delays and higher costs.
2. Customs and regulations
   Strict controls and changing requirements per country make the relocation process more complex. For example, Australia has very strict quarantine requirements, while the US focuses on safety and documentation.
3. Transportation methods
• Sea freight containers are often transported via multiple ports, which increases the chance of delays.
• Air freight is faster, but limited in volume and more strictly regulated.
4. Storage options
   Storage is not equally well regulated in every country. In some countries, modern, secure storage locations are standard; in other countries you have to expect higher risks or limited facilities.

Example situations

• Moving to Australia
• Cultural: strict biosecurity requirements, even wooden furniture and sporting goods can be refused.
• Logistics: quarantine inspection often delays delivery by several weeks.
• Moving to Japan
• Cultural: large language barrier; many forms exclusively in Japanese.
• Logistics: small houses and narrow streets require the use of shuttles and extra handling costs.
• Moving to the USA
• Cultural: businesslike and structured approach, fast procedures but strict document control.
• Logistics: accessibility in large cities is often limited, permits for parking moving vans are required.

Practical Tips

• Learn basic words in the language of your new country of residence or hire a interpreter.
• Ask your moving company about their experience with the specific country: local knowledge prevents misunderstandings.
• Take into account extra costs for shuttle services, permits or storage.
• Make a checklist of administrative and cultural preparations, in addition to the logistical moving planning.
• Be flexible: in many countries processes are different than you are used to are in the Netherlands or Europe.

Jeofferte.nl and international expertise

Via jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that have experience with specific countries outside Europe. These companies know how to deal with cultural and logistical challenges. Think of arranging permits, customs clearance and planning transport in cities where large trucks are not welcome. This way you avoid unexpected problems and you can be sure that your move will be professionally supervised.

Conclusion

When moving outside Europe, cultural and logistical differences play a major role. From language barriers and bureaucracy to hard-to-reach homes and strict customs procedures – the moving process requires good preparation and experienced guidance. By comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you choose a moving partner that knows these challenges and ensures that your move runs smoothly and professionally.

Costs for import duties and taxes when moving outside Europe

One of the biggest financial challenges when moving outside Europe are the import duties and taxes. In contrast to a move within the EU, where you benefit from free movement of goods, strict and costly customs regulations often apply outside Europe. These costs vary greatly from country to country and depend on the value, nature and origin of the imported goods.

What are import duties and taxes?

1. Import duties
   A percentage that is levied on imported goods, usually based on the value and type of product.
2. VAT or GST (Goods and Services Tax)
   Many countries charge a sales tax on imported goods. For example, 10% GST in Australia or 5% GST in Canada.
3. Excise duties and special taxes
   Certain products such as alcohol, tobacco, cars or luxury items fall often under extra levies.

When can you get an exemption?

Many countries have an exemption for removal goods, but this is subject to strict conditions:

• You must be able to prove that the goods are personal property and have been in use for a longer period (often at least 6–12 months).
• The goods must be intended for personal use, not for sale.
• You must have a residence permit or long-term visa for the new country.
• Often there is a deadline within which the goods must be imported (e.g. within 6 or 12 months after moving).

Examples by country

• United States
• Personal goods that have been in use for at least one year are usually exempt from import duties.
• Cars are subject to strict import rules and can result in high taxes.
• Canada
• Exemption for removal goods in case of permanent relocation.
• Alcoholic beverages and vehicles may be subject to additional taxes.
• Australia
• Goods owned for more than 12 months are exempt.
• GST (10%) may apply to new or valuable purchases.
• Switzerland (outside the EU but nearby)
• Exemption possible, provided goods have been owned for at least 6 months and you are emigrating.

Cost indication

• Without exemption: import duties + tax can amount to 20–40% of the value of your household effects.
• Importing a car: often thousands of euros extra, depending on age, value and environmental requirements.
• Documents and clearance costs: €200 – €500 extra.

Example:

A family moves to Australia with furniture and electronics worth €30,000.

• If exempt: no import duties, only clearance costs (€400).
• Without exemption: 10% GST → €3,000 + clearance costs (€400) = €3,400 extra.

Practical Tips

• Provide proof of purchase or inventory lists to demonstrate that items were already in use.
• Inquire in advance whether specific goods (cars, electronics, alcohol) are taxed.
• Avoid bringing a lot of new items; it is better to buy these in the destination country.
• Have the moving company make an estimate of the possible import duties in advance.
• Take into account fluctuating exchange rates, as taxes are often calculated in local currency.

Jeofferte.nl and customs information

When requesting quotes via jeofferte.nl, you can indicate which country you are moving to. Moving companies that have experience with your destination will then directly provide insight into the expected import duties and taxes. This way you avoid surprises and can determine a realistic budget in advance.

Conclusion

When moving outside of Europe, import duties and taxes play a crucial role in the total costs. Although exemptions often exist for personal goods, the rules are strict and country-dependent. By preparing well, avoiding unnecessary risks and comparing quotes via jeofferte.nl, you ensure that you do not face unexpected financial setbacks.

Professional international moving companies

Moving outside of Europe requires a moving partner with the right experience, certifications and international networks. Not every moving company is equipped for this. Below you will find the most important selection criteria and a number of well-known, professional parties.

What to look for?

1. Certifications and quality marks
   Look for quality marks such as FIDI, IAM (International Association of Movers) and AEO certification. This indicates that the company operates according to international standards.
2. International network
   Good international movers have branches or reliable partners worldwide. This makes customs clearance, transport and storage smoother.
3. Transparent quotes
   Professional companies clearly specify the costs for transport, insurance, customs and storage.
4. Customs expertise
   Companies with their own customs facilities or cooperation with forwarders ensure less delay and clarity in import duties.
5. Specialist packaging methods
   Professional packaging material, wooden crates and climate containers are used for international removals.
6. Customized insurance
   Good movers offer comprehensive all-risk insurance that covers damage during transport, handling and storage.
7. Experience with specific destinations
   Choose a party that has experience with the country of destination, because rules and procedures differ greatly.

Well-known professional international moving companies

• De Haan Verhuizingen – Dutch family business, strong in customs formalities, storage and intercontinental removals.
• AGS Movers – Active worldwide, offers removal services combined with storage and relocation solutions.
• Holland Movers – Specialised in custom international removals, including full guidance.
• Crown Relocations – Large international player with extensive experience in emigration and expat services.
• De Gruijter & Co. Royal Movers – Luxury removal company with a focus on quality and high-quality service.
• Atlas International Movers – Known for transparency and complete door-to-door removal processes.
• Gosselin Moving – European removal company with extensive experience in cross-border removals.
• Eurovan – International network of removal companies with a wide range of transport options.
• Santa Fe Relocation – Active worldwide, with an emphasis on employee relocation and large international moves.
• Allied Van Lines / Pickfords – One of the oldest and largest names in the international moving world.

Conclusion

Professional international moving companies are distinguished by their experience, global networks and knowledge of customs and transport regulations. They offer more than just transport: guidance, insurance and administration are an integral part of their service. By comparing different companies and their offers via a platform such as jeofferte.nl, you gain insight into which party best suits your situation.