Moving to another country is one of the most important decisions in life. Whether for work, family or a new chapter, the logistics behind an international move are complex. Making the wrong choices can cost time, money and a great deal of frustration.
At Translowcost, we have been transporting what people value most for years: the belongings built over a lifetime. From Portugal to France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Spain or the Netherlands, we carry out international removals with precision, safety and transparent pricing.
This guide was created to answer every question that arises before an international move: how much it costs, what needs to be arranged, what the timelines are, what can go wrong and how to make sure everything goes well.
What is an international removal and how does it work?
An international removal involves transporting household goods from Portugal to another country. Unlike a domestic move, it requires more complex logistics: cross-border routes, possible customs clearance, specific documentation and coordination between teams in different countries.
The typical process of an international move with Translowcost works as follows:
- Quote request — Describe the volume and details of the move. Our team analyses the information and presents a clear proposal with no hidden costs.
- Planning and packing — Depending on the service chosen, our team visits your home to prepare everything using materials suited to each type of item.
- Loading and transport — The truck departs on the agreed date. For European destinations, transport is carried out by road in the vast majority of cases.
- Customs clearance (where applicable) — For countries outside the Schengen Area or the EU, such as Switzerland or the United Kingdom, we handle all the necessary documentation.
- Delivery at destination — The team delivers to the indicated address, with furniture assembly included in the PLUS and Premium services.
The process starts with a simple contact. From there, we take care of everything.
Heading: Factors that influence the price
Several elements determine the actual cost of an international removal:
Volume and weight of goods
The more furniture and boxes, the more space required in the truck. This is the main cost factor.
Distance and destination
Spain is logistically closer than Switzerland or the United Kingdom. Distance affects fuel costs, travel time and associated expenses.
Type of service
A full packing service is different from a service where the client packs everything. The BASE, PLUS and Premium services at Translowcost reflect different levels of involvement from our team.
Accessibility
Homes with a lift, easy parking and good access reduce time and, consequently, cost. Floors without a lift, narrow streets or historic buildings require more effort and time.
Special packaging
Pianos, works of art, high-tech equipment, motorbikes or collectibles require specific packaging and handling.
Insurance
The coverage taken out influences the total price. We always recommend insurance appropriate to the value of the goods.
Shared vs. exclusive removals
In shared removals, space is shared with other clients on the same route. This is the most economical option. In exclusive removals, the truck is entirely at your disposal.
Heading: Differences between European destinations
Not all destinations are equal from a logistical and administrative point of view.
European Union countries (Spain, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands)
Within the EU, the movement of personal goods for change of residence is customs-free. The process is simpler and timelines are generally shorter.
Switzerland
Switzerland is not part of the EU. There is strict customs control. A list of goods, a customs clearance form and proof of residence are required. Our team manages this process in full.
Find out more on our dedicated page for removals to Switzerland.
United Kingdom (post-Brexit)
Following the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, the process once again involves customs formalities. Specific documents are required and there are clear rules about what can be transported without paying taxes.
See our complete guide on Portugal – United Kingdom removals.
Road transport and international logistics
The vast majority of international removals from Portugal are carried out by road, in a truck. This is the most efficient option for European distances, offering a good balance between cost, timeline and security of goods.
The logistics involve:
- Route planning — We always choose the most direct and safe route, minimising unnecessary transfers.
- Suitable fleet — Our trucks are equipped with load securing systems, furniture protection and GPS tracking.
- Qualified team — Drivers know the routes, the rules of each country and customs procedures.
- Constant communication — Throughout the transport, the team stays in contact with the client to provide updates on the delivery status.
For destinations such as Luxembourg, Germany or the Netherlands, we offer regular departures that allow shared truck space and reduce the total cost.
Required documentation
For an international removal to go smoothly, having the correct documentation is essential. Documents vary depending on the destination.
General documentation (all destinations)
- Rental agreement or purchase deed for the property at the destination
- Valid identity document (passport or national identity card)
- Proof of previous residence in Portugal
- Descriptive list of goods being transported
Additional documents for destinations outside the EU (Switzerland and United Kingdom)
- Personal goods customs clearance form
- Declaration of change of residence
- Proof that the goods belong to the client and have been in use for more than 6 months
- Any licences required for specific items (weapons, medication, etc.)
Our team helps to prepare and verify all documentation before departure. There are no surprises at the border when you work with us.
Customs: what to know before leaving Portugal
For moves within the EU, there is no customs control on personal use goods. The truck moves freely.
For the United Kingdom and Switzerland, the situation is different. There is goods inspection, document verification and, in some cases, payment of duties.
What is generally exempt from taxes in an international removal:
- Furniture and household appliances
- Clothing and personal items
- Books, toys, school supplies
- Vehicles (with specific conditions per country)
What may raise questions:
- Alcohol and tobacco in large quantities
- Animais de estimação (exigem documentação veterinária própria)
- Fresh food products
- Weapons or regulated items
Translowcost works with experienced customs partners at the main destinations. We accompany every move to ensure the customs clearance process goes without issues.
International transport insurance
Transporting your personal belongings to another country always involves some risk. Even with the best professionals and procedures, unforeseen events can happen: travel accidents, mechanical failures, unexpected situations on the road.
For this reason, we always recommend taking out transport insurance appropriate to the actual value of the goods.
Speak with the Translowcost team to find out which coverage is most suitable for your move.
Professional Packing: BASE, PLUS and Premium Services
A forma como os bens são embalados determina, em grande parte, se chegam ao destino em perfeitas condições. A Translowcost oferece três níveis de serviço adaptados a diferentes necessidades e orçamentos.
Basic Service
Ideal for those who prefer to pack their own belongings and only need transport and delivery.
- Loading and unloading by a professional team
- Furniture protection with blankets and film
- Safe transport to the destination
- Delivery to the indicated address
Plus Service
For those who want to delegate the most demanding part while maintaining control over the process.
- Everything included in BASE
- Professional packing of boxes and fragile items
- Disassembly and assembly of main furniture
- Packing materials included (boxes, paper, bubble wrap)
Premium Service
Designed for complete, demanding moves or those involving high-value goods.
- Everything included in PLUS
- Specialist packing of works of art, mirrors, built-in appliances
- Dedicated coordinator for your move
- Detailed inventory of all goods
- Temporary storage service available
Not sure which service is right for you? Talk to our team and receive a personalised recommendation.
Checklist Internacional
Use this checklist to make sure you do not forget anything before your international move:
Before departure (4 to 6 weeks before)
- Request a quote and confirm the moving date
- Make a detailed inventory of goods
- Gather all necessary documentation
- Contact customs if the destination is outside the EU
- Take out transport insurance
- Notify relevant bodies in Portugal (tax authority, social security, bank, family doctor)
- Confirm new address at the destination
In the week of the move
- Finalise packing and label boxes by room
- Set aside items for personal transport (documents, medication, laptop)
- Confirm access to the destination property
- Check available parking for the truck
On moving day
- Be present or have a trusted person available
- Check the inventory with the team
- Sign transport documentation
- Keep the team coordinator’s contact details
After delivery
- Check the condition of all goods
- Confirm no item was left behind
- Register with the relevant local authorities in the destination country
Frequently Asked Questions
Basic insurance is included in all services.
Yes, Translowcost offers shared removals (groupage) to all major European destinations, with regular departures.
Our team handles all customs documentation. Personal household goods are generally exempt from taxes, provided the legal conditions are met.
Yes, subject to specific conditions. Vehicle transport requires additional documentation and can be combined with the removal or arranged separately.
Translowcost focuses on removals within Europe. For intercontinental destinations, contact us and we will guide you towards the best options.
