Moving to UK
UK Moving Destinations
We have the whole of the United Kingdom and Ireland covered, from the big cities of London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, Southampton, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cardiff, Swansea, Belfast and Dublin and everywhere in between. Including beautiful and historic places such as Cambridge, Oxford, Nottingham, York, The Lake District, Aberdeen, Cork, the list goes on. We can also deliver those more unusual destinations such as the Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, Channel Islands and the Hebrides. The United Kingdom is also used as a gateway to other European mainland destinations for shared container shipments. We have the knowledge, experience and affiliated partners to delivery you a seamless move.
Get a Quote for Moving to the United Kingdom
We don’t need much to work out the cost of moving your belongings to your new home in the UK. Whatever your requirements, Searoad & Alliance have a variety of quote options to suit your moving needs. To get started simply complete the Free Quote request form on this page and we’ll be in direct contact with you.
Moving Your Household Goods to the UK
When moving to the United Kingdom there is some key information you should know. In order to import your household goods into the United Kingdom (excluding the Republic of Ireland) you will have to apply for the Transfer of Residence (TOR) relief. Once the application is submitted & approved, there will then be free of tax and duty for the importation of household goods into UK. It is imperative that you make your application for TOR relief as early as possible, as current delays in processing are up to four weeks.
*Disclaimer: All information provided is a general guide only and can change without notice. We suggest making contact with the appropriate authorities for complete verification.
UK Customs Services*
Used household goods and personal effects can be imported into the United Kingdom free of duty and tax so long as you are moving your normal home to the EC, have had your normal home outside the EC for a continuous period of at least 12 months, have used your goods for at least six months before importing them, and will retain the goods for your own personal use. All alcoholic beverages and cigarettes are subject to duty and tax regardless of quantity. Your shipment cannot arrive more than 6 months before your own arrival to the UK or 12 months after your arrival to the UK.
Approximate Transit Times to the UK
Depending on the method of shipping we can advise the following approximate door-to-door transit times. These times are based on an average and given as a guide to assist you in your planning.
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Sea Freight for Sole Use Container or LCL: Approximately 7-9 weeks
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Air Freight: Approximately 1-2 weeks
Packing your Belongings
It is our recommendation that we professionally pack your goods. We use the best materials available and employ the best techniques to ensure your goods arrive safely. We also have a variety of speciality cartons, purpose-designed for household good items. We also custom-build wooden crates for fragile and precious items. Every single item moving will be packaged in some form, thus if it is not packed in a removal carton it will be export wrapped. Once packed all goods will be numbered with a label sticker and recorded on a removal inventory.
Whilst it is our recommendation that we pack your goods it is not mandatory, you are welcome to pack some or all of your goods yourself. We can assist you in this process by providing you with our packing materials and a handy packing guide.
Storing Your Belongings in Origin or UK
We have storage services available in both origin and the United Kingdom. The advantage of storing in Australia is that when you are ready to receive your goods they can be delivered quite quickly. Whereas if you store them in origin, you will have to plan around shipping transit and wait for their arrival. On the other hand, if you are not sure whether your stay in UK is going to be a permanent one we are able to store your goods in origin until you are ready to make your decision. This can reduce unnecessary shipping costs if your change your mind.
Insuring Your Belongings
It is very important to consider the protection of your goods during relocation as there is always an element of risk. Peace of mind is paramount, thankfully, we are able to offer a range of insurance options to ensure your personal possessions are well covered should the unlikely happen.