Since Brexit, moves from Portugal to the United Kingdom are no longer a simple operation within the European area. There are now customs checks, specific documentation, and requirements that did not exist before 2021. Those who are not prepared may face delays, unexpected costs, and a lot of frustration.

At Translowcost, we carry out moves from Portugal to the United Kingdom regularly. We know the process inside out and take care of everything, from packing to customs, so you arrive at your new home with no surprises.

Request your free quote now for moves Portugal – United Kingdom.

Moves to the United Kingdom after Brexit

Brexit changed the rules for those moving from Portugal to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. Before, as within the EU, goods moved freely. Today, there are border checks, document verification and, in some cases, physical inspection of the load.

What changed in practice:

• Requirement for a customs declaration for personal belongings
• Need to prove that the goods belong to the customer and have been used for more than 6 months
• Mandatory submission of documentation for change of residence
• Possible payment of taxes on goods purchased in the last 12 months

However, for those genuinely moving their permanent residence to the United Kingdom, most household goods can be imported without paying customs duties, provided the documentation is correct.

Translowcost works with experienced customs brokers both in Portugal and in the United Kingdom. You will not have to deal with this alone.

Mandatory Documentation

For a move from Portugal to the United Kingdom, you need to gather the following documents:

Personal documentation:

• Valid passport or identity card
• Proof of previous residence in Portugal (rent receipts, utility bills, bank statement)
• Tenancy agreement or property deed in the United Kingdom

Customs documentation:

• C3 form (Transfer of Residence Relief) – allows you to import personal goods without paying taxes
• Detailed list of goods being transported (inventory with description and estimated value)
• Signed declaration that the goods are for personal use and are more than 6 months old

Additional documentation (when applicable):

• For vehicles: registration certificate, certificate of conformity, insurance policy
• For medicines: medical prescription and declaration of personal use

The Translowcost team checks all documentation before departure. No surprises at the border.

Customs and Goods Control

Passing through British customs is the point that most concerns those moving from Portugal to the United Kingdom. When the process is well prepared, it runs smoothly.

What happens at the border:

The Translowcost truck arrives at the entry point into the United Kingdom (usually the Channel Tunnel or the ports of Dover/Portsmouth) with all documentation ready. The customs broker handles the customs clearance process based on the inventory and the change-of-residence documents.

Goods generally exempt from taxes:

• Household furniture used for more than 6 months
• Personal appliances
• Clothing and personal items
• Books, toys, school supplies

What may raise questions:

• Goods purchased in the last 12 months (especially expensive electronics)
• Alcohol and tobacco in quantities above personal limits
• High-value items (jewellery, art, high-value musical instruments)

Speak with the Translowcost team to understand exactly what applies to your situation.

Shared vs. Exclusive Moves to the United Kingdom

Shared move (groupage):
Your volume shares the truck with other customers bound for the United Kingdom. It is the most economical option, especially for small volumes (studio, 1-bedroom flat, or just a few items).

Translowcost has regular departures to the United Kingdom, which makes groupage a very competitive option in terms of timeframe.

Exclusive move:
The truck is entirely dedicated to your move, from loading in Portugal to delivery at destination. Greater scheduling flexibility and a more predictable timeframe.

For volumes from a 2/3-bedroom home onwards, an exclusive move can be more economical than it seems when considering the cost per cubic metre.

VAT and Tax Implications

Since Brexit, the United Kingdom charges VAT on certain imported goods. For personal goods in the context of a change of residence, the exemption applies, provided the conditions are met:

• The applicant must have lived outside the United Kingdom for at least 12 months before the move
• The goods must be for personal use and be more than 6 months old
• The exemption application (Transfer of Residence Relief) must be submitted before or at the time of import

If you purchased goods in recent months with the intention of taking them to the United Kingdom, you may be subject to UK VAT. Our team can guide you on how to declare correctly.

Restrictions and What Cannot Be Transported

There are items the United Kingdom does not allow to be imported or that require specific documentation:

Prohibited or heavily regulated:

• Plants and plant products without a phytosanitary certificate
• Food
• Weapons and ammunition (require a specific licence)
• Animals
• Replica weapons

Restricted:

• Controlled medicines (require a doctor’s letter and declaration)
• Alcohol and tobacco above personal limits

We recommend that you review the official HMRC list (UK tax authority) or contact us to clarify any questions about specific items.

Practical Tips for a Move from Portugal to the United Kingdom

Handle the documentation at least 2 weeks in advance
The Transfer of Residence Relief process can take time. Do not leave it to the last week.

Make a realistic and detailed inventory
The inventory is the basis of the customs process. Be thorough: brand, model, condition, and estimated value of each item.

Do not transport food
Avoid problems at the border. Food is generally confiscated.

Confirm access at destination
In London and other cities with parking restrictions, you must request prior authorisation from the local council to park a moving truck. Translowcost helps with this process.

Notify your bank, doctor, and tax office before you leave
An international move requires updating your details with various entities. The sooner you handle it, the fewer complications you will have later.

Get an estimate quickly—contact Translowcost today.

Learn more about how Translowcost international moves work or contact us directly for a personalised quote.

Request your free quote now for your move from Portugal to the United Kingdom.