We have been receiving a lot of requests from readers since the start of the COVID pandemic, all asking the same question: “Is it possible to pack and move my personal effects and possessions from the UK to my new home in France during the Covid crisis?”. Well the simple answer is yes.
Let’s start with the basics. How is it working with moving to France during Covid restrictions?
You can still move to France during the Covid crisis. The borders are open. In fact freight and cargo has been moving unhindered since the very start of the Covid pandemic. Things have been moving a little slower than normal, but ferries and the Eurotunnel are running regularly for freight. And, with the roads less congested, that’s helped speed things up.
Government advice is that removals work can continue as long as it can be done safely for clients and staff, and that to follow the latest guidelines to maintain distancing and sanitising. And of course that no work should be carried out by a person who has coronavirus symptoms, however mild.
Removals to Provence
Partners Dave Marshall and Jean-Marc Brouillard moved from north London to Aix-en-Provence. They were already in France and could not come back for the packing and removal due to COVID quarantine rules. They arranged for their landlord to give the removals company access to the property and, using a video link they were able to explain exactly what needed to be packed and moved to their new home. If you can’t get back to the UK to organise your move, chose a removal company that offers this service.
Are there any restrictions on what I can move to France?
Until the BREXIT borders go up (early 2021), British expats and EU citizens can import used household goods and personal possessions into France without restrictions or incurring any taxes or duties, as long as everything is for personal use and not for re-sale. However there are some prohibited items that you are not allowed to import. These include weapons, plants, inflammable goods, offensive materials, contraband and food stuffs.
How long will it take to ship my stuff to France?
Some companie offer next day service. This is suitable for smaller and urgent consignments. For most deliveries you should allow 6 to 10 days.
