Removals from France to England
Are you planning to move from France to England? Whether you are a British expat returning home, a French family relocating for work or school, or a business moving staff and equipment, we can manage the whole move for you.
We organise full‑house removals, part‑load shipments and office relocations from all over France to destinations across England. Our team coordinates everything from the initial survey and quote through to packing, transport, customs clearance, storage and final delivery, so you do not have to juggle different companies.
Since Brexit, every move from the EU into the UK is treated as an international removal. In 2026 that still means customs declarations, Transfer of Residence (ToR) applications and checks at the border – but handled correctly, most France-England moves clear without major delays or surprise charges. On this page you will find clear, up‑to‑date guidance on paperwork, realistic 2026 price ranges and transit times, pet and vehicle rules, and what to expect on moving day, along with how we support you at every stage of your move from France to England.
We regularly handle removals from Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux and Marseille to English cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds, so whether you are moving from a big city or a rural village in France, we can put together the right route and schedule for you.
As a specialist removal company France to UK, we handle everything from small part‑loads to full‑house removals France to UK, making sure your move is compliant, efficient and clearly costed from the start.
Why are people moving from France to England in 2026?
The reasons for relocating from France to England vary, but most moves fall into three core categories: returning Brits, new migrants seeking opportunity, and business-driven relocations.
Returning British citizens
A growing number of British expats are choosing to come back home. Common reasons include:
- Proximity to family – especially for elderly parents, grandchildren, or healthcare access
- Brexit fatigue – navigating French bureaucracy has become more complex, particularly around healthcare, driving licences, and property ownership
- Change of pace – many expats feel they’ve “done their time” in France and are ready to settle back into familiar surroundings
French nationals and global expats
England remains a magnet for:
- Young professionals chasing job prospects in finance, tech, healthcare, and education
- International students applying to top UK universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial
- Multinational families seeking bilingual education or relocating with global employers
With English as the primary language, robust infrastructure, and a dynamic job market, many see the UK as a land of opportunity despite post-Brexit hurdles.
Commercial and business moves
Entrepreneurs and companies are also relocating from France to England to:
- Access UK markets and customers
- Streamline logistics with central warehousing or fulfilment hubs
- Repatriate company headquarters due to regulatory or tax considerations
These moves often include both household and office contents – and we support both.
What paperwork do you need to move household goods from France to England?
To move your personal belongings from France to England, you’ll need customs paperwork including a detailed inventory, identity documents, and proof of residency.
Since Brexit, all moves from the EU to the UK are treated as international removals. This means you must complete a customs clearance process and may be eligible for tax relief if you’re returning or relocating long-term.
Required documents include:
- Valid passport or identity card – for all named individuals on the shipment
- Detailed inventory list – itemised by room and value (ideally in English)
- Customs declaration – including origin and destination addresses
- Proof of residence in the UK – such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill
- ToR1 application (Transfer of Residence) – if you’re relocating long-term and want to avoid import VAT
- Invoices or proof of ownership – for high-value items, electronics, or new goods
- Permits for restricted items – e.g. vehicles, weapons, or cultural property
Additional notes:
- Items must have been owned and used for at least 6 months to qualify for duty and VAT relief.
- The ToR1 form should be submitted to HMRC before your move. You’ll receive a unique reference number, which helps fast-track customs clearance.
- If you’re shipping new goods or items bought in France, these may be liable for customs duty and import VAT.
HMRC rules around Transfer of Residence (ToR) and duty‑free import of household goods can change, so in 2026 we always check the latest guidance, submit your ToR1 application on time and make sure your inventory meets current UK customs requirements before your shipment leaves France. We handle the practical side of customs and paperwork, but we’re not tax or immigration advisers, so we always recommend double‑checking your personal situation with HMRC, a qualified tax professional or an immigration specialist if you’re unsure.
We take care of this process for you.
At Total Moving Solutions, our team prepares your customs documents, reviews your inventory, and liaises directly with UK customs officers to avoid delays or errors. As well as our dedicated France to England removals, we provide wider European removals and international moving services, and you can upgrade your cover with our MoveProtect enhanced liability for extra peace of mind on high‑value shipments.
How much does it cost to move from France to England?
It depends on:
- The size of your property or load
- The distance (e.g. Lyon to Manchester is further than Calais to London)
- Whether you choose a part load or dedicated service
- Extras like packing, storage, or customs clearance help
For most international removals from France to England, 2026 moving costs are built from a mix of door-to-door transport, labour, ferry or Eurotunnel fees, customs handling and any storage or packing you add. A dedicated removal lorry that only carries your goods will always cost more than a part-load service, but it gives you tighter control over dates and delivery windows.
Typical 2026 price guide moving services from France to England
- 1–2 bedroom apartment: £400 to £1,300
- 3–4 bedroom house: £1,500 to £3,500
- 5+ bedroom or complex moves: £3,500 to £5,000+
All of these 2026 prices are guide ranges only – your final quote will depend on your exact inventory, access at both properties and the time of year, so it’s always worth getting a detailed survey for an accurate door-to-door figure.
Part-load services: You share space with other customers on a scheduled route – great for smaller moves or if you’re flexible on dates.
Dedicated service: Your items are the only ones on board, and the schedule revolves around you – ideal for families, urgent relocations or those with valuable items.
Want a quote? We’ll give you a tailored price based on your specific move details – no vague estimates.
How long does a move from France to England take?
Most moves take between 7 to 14 days approximately.
If you’re using part-load, your items may wait for other shipments to fill the van. Dedicated services are often faster — sometimes as quick as 2–3 days from collection to delivery.
Peak periods (e.g. summer holidays) and customs delays can push things up to two weeks. We’ll let you know the exact window when we quote.
Can I pack my own boxes for a move from France to the UK?
Yes, you can pack your own belongings – but we strongly recommend using professional-grade materials and listing contents clearly. This helps:
- Speed up customs inspection
- Protect fragile items during transport
- Comply with UK import rules, especially for electronics, food, and liquids
Avoid packing:
- Perishable items or open food
- Alcohol (unless declared)
- Hazardous materials (e.g., aerosols, paint)
If you prefer, we offer full or partial packing services using export-approved materials.
Where are people moving from and to?
Some of our most popular France–England routes include:
- Paris to London: One of the most popular routes for people moving from France to London, especially returning professionals and young families. Straightforward via Eurotunnel.
- Lyon to Manchester: Popular with retirees, families, and businesses relocating to the North of England.
- Toulouse, Bordeaux, Marseille to Birmingham, Bristol or Leeds — we cover it all.
We operate throughout France – whether you’re in a countryside cottage or city centre apartment – and we can arrange removals from France to Scotland and Wales as well as England if your new home is further north. And we’ll deliver anywhere in England that you need. That means we can plan cross-Channel removals from major regions like Île-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Brittany into all parts of England, whether you are heading for the South East, the Midlands, the North of England or the South West.
What challenges should you expect?
Moving between countries isn’t like moving down the road. Common obstacles include:
- Downsizing or decluttering if you’re returning to a smaller UK home
- Uncertainty with customs — especially for high-value items or vehicles
- Feeling overwhelmed by admin — closing French bank accounts, notifying tax offices, etc.
- Emotional stress — leaving friends, saying goodbye to a lifestyle you built
We’ve supported thousands of families and businesses. We’ll guide you through these steps with patience and experience.
Storage, insurance and support
Not sure where you’ll be living in England yet? No problem.
We offer:
- Secure storage in France and the UK
- Packing and unpacking services
- Enhanced liability options, including MoveProtect cover, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are protected during international transit.
- Vehicle transport and customs help
Everything is arranged by your dedicated Move Manager, who becomes your main contact from start to finish. You won’t be passed from person to person.
What happens on moving day and delivery in the UK?
Moving day is where it all comes together. Whether you’re relocating from a Paris flat or a countryside home near Bordeaux, we’ll coordinate every step to make the process clear and stress-free – from collection in France to unloading in England.
Collection day in France:
- Our removals crew arrives at your property on the agreed date.
- If you’ve opted for packing services, we wrap and box your items professionally.
- A final inventory check is completed before loading begins.
- Larger items like furniture are blanket-wrapped or dismantled if needed.
- All items are securely loaded into your part-load or dedicated vehicle.
During transport:
- Your goods travel via Eurotunnel or ferry, depending on the route.
- We keep you updated on transit progress and estimated delivery time.
- Customs clearance is handled en route or at UK border control entry points – our team manages this on your behalf to ensure smooth delivery.
Delivery in England:
- We’ll confirm the day and estimated time of arrival (ETA) at your UK address.
- Our team unloads, checks off items against your inventory, and places furniture where you want it.
- If you selected unpacking services, we’ll unwrap, assemble and remove packing materials.
- Any short-term storage or split delivery can also be arranged.
Important considerations:
- Let us know in advance if there are access issues at your UK property (e.g., narrow lanes, stair-only buildings, parking restrictions).
- If your move is going into storage first, we’ll deliver directly to our UK facility and then to your address once ready.
Common concerns about moving from France to the UK
When you’re moving to the UK from France, there’s a lot more to think about than just the boxes – visas, pensions, tax, schools and healthcare all play into your timing and planning.
Do I need a visa to move from France to the UK in 2026?
It depends on your nationality and reason for moving. British citizens can move back to the UK from France without needing a visa, but French and other EU nationals must follow current UK immigration rules, typically applying for a work visa, family visa or student visa before they relocate. We cannot provide immigration advice, but we recommend checking the latest guidance on GOV.UK and making sure your visa or status is in place before you book your removal.
Can you help with moving pets from France to England?
Yes! Many of our France to England moves include family pets. We do not transport animals in our removal vehicles, but we can coordinate timing with your chosen pet transport company and make sure your pet’s crate, bedding and supplies are ready at your new home. In 2026, pets entering Great Britain must still meet the UK’s pet travel rules – including microchipping, a valid rabies vaccination and the right pet passport or animal health certificate – so we’ll point you towards the latest official guidance when we plan your move.
What’s the difference between a part-load and a dedicated removal service?
With a part-load service, your belongings share vehicle space with other customers moving between France and England on a similar route. This is usually the cheapest option and works well if you have a smaller shipment or a flexible delivery window.
A dedicated removal service means the lorry carries only your goods, and the schedule is built around your dates, which gives you more control and faster transit, but at a higher price. When we quote, we’ll explain both options so you can choose what fits your budget and timings.
Can a French citizen move to the UK in 2026?
Yes, but not as freely as before Brexit. French nationals now need to apply for the appropriate UK visa based on their reason for moving — such as work, study, or joining family. Visa-free relocation for EU citizens ended in 2021.
How do I prove my goods are duty-free when moving from France to the UK?
To qualify for duty and VAT exemption, you’ll need to show that your goods are personal belongings, owned and used for at least 6 months. Provide a detailed inventory, proof of ownership where possible, and a declaration that items are for personal use only.
What is the cheapest way to move from France to England?
The cheapest option is a part load removals service, where your belongings share space in a vehicle with other customers. This works best for small or non-urgent moves. If you have a flexible timeline, it can save hundreds of pounds.
Is it cheaper to live in France or England in 2026?
On average, France offers a lower cost of living, especially outside Paris. But expats returning to England often do so for family, healthcare, or legal reasons — not just financial ones.
Can I move back to the UK from France without a job?
If you’re a British citizen, yes — there are no employment or income requirements. For non-British citizens, moving without a job may be more complex, depending on the visa type and sponsorship requirements.
What happens to my pension if I move back from France to the UK?
UK pensions can still be received abroad, but when you return, it’s important to update your address and review any tax implications. You may also need to inform both HMRC and French tax authorities to avoid double taxation.
Do I need to deregister from France before moving back?
Yes. You should inform your local mairie (town hall), healthcare provider, and tax office that you’re leaving. This will prevent future liabilities and ensures a cleaner tax and admin trail when you re-enter the UK system.
Can I take my car with me from France to England?
Yes, but you must register it with the DVLA, insure it appropriately, and pay any duties if applicable. If the car is over 6 months old and you’ve owned it for that long, you might be able to bring it in duty-free.
What are the most common emotional reasons people move back to the UK from France?
A desire to be closer to family, feelings of isolation post-Brexit, and the strain of navigating foreign bureaucracy are major factors. Some feel they’ve “had a good run” in France but want to return to familiarity and support networks.
How do I choose a reliable removals company from France to the UK?
Look for companies that:
- Offer both part-load and dedicated services
- Handle customs clearance paperwork
- Are insured and certified for international removals
- Provide references or have verifiable reviews
Total Moving Solutions is a trusted European removals company. We help individuals, families and businesses with removals from France to the UK and removals to France, so you get consistent support whether you’re moving out of the UK or coming back.
What is the 10-year residence card in France, and does it affect my move?
This card allows long-term non-EU residents to stay in France. If you’re giving it up to return to the UK, ensure you understand any tax or administrative consequences, and formally renounce it to avoid future obligations.
Can I move furniture and pets from France to the UK?
Yes. Moving furniture from France to the UK is straightforward with professional help – we’ll dismantle, wrap and load your items safely, then deliver and place them in the right rooms at your new home. For pets, ensure they meet the UK’s pet travel rules, including microchipping, valid rabies vaccinations, and the correct pet passport or animal health certificate.
How do I bring antiques or artwork from France to the UK?
Items of cultural or historical significance may require special permits and may not be duty-free. Speak to a specialist removals firm like ours that deals with high-value items — we’ll advise you on what’s allowed and how to declare it properly.
Ready to make the move from France to England?
We’re here to help, whether you’re relocating for work, returning home, or making a fresh start.
Get your free removals quote today.
Let us know where you’re moving from, where you’re going, and what you need – and we’ll do the rest.