Moving from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom in 2026
Moving from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom is one of the more complex international moves in Europe — largely due to Brexit. Since 1 January 2021, the UK is no longer part of the EU's single market or customs union. This means that moving your household goods from the Netherlands to the UK now involves customs documentation and, in some cases, import duties. Despite the extra paperwork, tens of thousands of Dutch residents still make the move to the UK each year, drawn by career opportunities, family ties, or the appeal of cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Bristol.
The Moving Team has the expertise and experience to manage your UK move from A to Z — including the post-Brexit customs requirements.
Costs of Moving from the Netherlands to the UK in 2026
Moving to the UK is typically more expensive than other European moves, due to the ferry crossing or Channel Tunnel transit, and the additional customs administration. Indicative prices for 2026:
- Small apartment or studio: €2,200 – €3,500
- Medium-sized home (50–120 m²): €3,500 – €5,500
- Large family home (>120 m²): €5,000 – €8,500+
These prices include the removal truck, an experienced team, packaging materials, ferry crossing, basic transit insurance, and customs documentation preparation. Additional services such as full packing, storage, and furniture assembly are available at extra cost.
Post-Brexit: Customs and Immigration for Moving to the UK
Since Brexit, moving to the UK involves a number of extra steps that do not apply to EU-internal moves:
- Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief: EU citizens who have been living in the Netherlands and are moving to the UK as their new permanent residence can apply for Transfer of Residence relief. This allows you to import your personal household goods duty-free. The application must be submitted to HMRC in advance.
- Detailed inventory required: UK customs requires a complete, itemised inventory of all household goods you are importing. We help you prepare this document.
- Immigration status: Since Brexit, Dutch and other EU citizens need to apply for UK immigration status to live and work in the UK. The UK's Skilled Worker Visa, Graduate Visa, or other relevant visa must be in place before your move.
- Settled or Pre-Settled Status: If you lived in the UK before 31 December 2020, you may already have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Vehicle import: Bringing your car to the UK involves customs declaration, potential import VAT, and re-registration with the DVLA. This must be done within 6 months of establishing UK residency.
- Deregister in the Netherlands: Notify your Dutch municipality (gemeente) of your emigration to update your BRP records.
Practical Tips for Moving to the UK
- Apply for ToR relief early: HMRC processing can take several weeks. Submit your application at least 6 weeks before your move date.
- Prepare thorough documentation: UK customs is strict. Keep copies of all inventories, purchase receipts for high-value items, and identity documents.
- Choose between ferry and Eurotunnel: Our drivers are experienced with both options (Hook of Holland–Harwich, Rotterdam–Hull, and the Eurotunnel at Calais–Folkestone). We will recommend the best route for your move.
- Opening a UK bank account: This can be challenging without a UK address and National Insurance number. Some online banks (e.g., Monzo, Revolut) allow non-residents to open accounts.
- National Insurance number (NIN): Apply for your NIN as soon as you arrive. You will need it for employment and accessing public services.
- NHS registration: Register with a local GP (General Practitioner) to access the National Health Service (NHS).
Why Choose The Moving Team for Your UK Move?
Moving to the UK is complex, and you need a removal company that knows the post-Brexit landscape. The Moving Team has processed UK moves since Brexit took effect and is fully up to date with the current HMRC customs requirements, ferry schedules, and documentation procedures.
Our customers consistently rate us 4.6 stars on Google. That rating reflects our dedication to getting every detail right — including the paperwork — so that your move is as smooth as possible.
- Full post-Brexit customs documentation support
- Experienced on all Netherlands–UK ferry routes
- Fixed all-in quotes including ferry costs
- Full packing and unpacking service available
- Secure storage in Maasdijk if your UK home is not yet ready
- Personal coordinator throughout your entire move
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to the UK
Do I need to pay customs duties when moving my household goods to the UK?
Not if you apply for Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief and your goods qualify as personal household items you have owned for more than 6 months. New or recently purchased items may be subject to import VAT.
How long does a move from the Netherlands to London take?
Via the Eurotunnel or the Hook of Holland–Harwich ferry, the journey takes 1–2 days depending on the exact destination in the UK. We plan the logistics in detail and keep you updated throughout.
Can I bring my pets when moving to the UK?
Yes, but pets require an AHC (Animal Health Certificate) issued by an accredited vet no more than 10 days before travel. We recommend contacting a vet well in advance.
How far in advance should I book a move to the UK?
We recommend booking at least 6–8 weeks in advance for UK moves, to allow sufficient time for customs documentation and ferry reservations.
What happens if my UK visa is delayed?
We can store your household goods in our facility in Maasdijk until your documentation is confirmed. We offer flexible storage solutions for exactly this kind of situation.
Get a Free Quote for Your Move to the UK
Ready to start planning your move from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom? Contact The Moving Team on 070 70 70 341 or email us at info@deverhuizing.nl. We will provide a detailed, no-obligation quote covering everything from your front door in the Netherlands to your new home in the UK.