Moving from the UK to Spain
Cotswold Carriers is here to assist you in planning your perfect move, whether it’s domestic or commercial, with over 40 years of experience in relocating to Spain from the UK.
We offer regular removal services throughout Spain, Portugal, Italy, and more. Additionally, our weekly removal trips to France (and back) ensure that your belongings are moved securely and efficiently.
Count on us to take great care of your furniture as you transition to Spain; we strive to make your relocation as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you're considering a move to Spain and need a dependable removal company, feel free to reach out to Cotswold Carriers.
Your Removal Services
Comprehensive Removal Insurance- Carpet Protection Services
- Complete Packing and Moving Service
- Professional Packing and Wrapping
- Boxes and Bubble Wrap in Advance
- Unpacking and Settling-in Assistance
- Furniture Assembly Services
- Custom Crating for Fine Art
- Specialised Piano Transportation
- Dedicated Vehicle Transportation
Customs and Import Regulations for Your Move to Spain
Understanding customs regulations is essential for a smooth transition when moving your belongings to Spain. Certain items may require customs declarations or may be subject to import duties.
Exemptions from customs duties typically apply to personal items that have been used for at least six months. It is crucial to prepare a detailed inventory list of your belongings along with their estimated values for customs purposes.
We understand that customs and import regulations can be complex, which is why we always have a qualified export consultant available to ensure that there are no delays with the paperwork.
Enquire About Your Move to Spain
Once you’ve made the exciting decision to move to Spain, selecting a highly experienced removals company like Cotswold Carriers is your best move.
Our professional removal services for both residential and commercial relocations to Spain guarantee a smooth and efficient process, allowing you to focus on your new adventure.
To kick off your move to Spain from the UK (or vice versa), simply fill out our detailed quote form.
This information ensures our removal crew is fully equipped to handle any access challenges or unexpected hurdles, making your relocation experience as seamless as possible.
Your Removal Needs for the Move to Spain
Before dispatching any vehicles or committing to a removals service, we conduct a thorough assessment of your needs.
We begin by sending one of our experienced removal crew members to visit you, where we will thoroughly discuss your needs and explore the best options tailored to you.
We take into account all your specific circumstances, including the number of items you need to move over to Spain and whether you would like to use any of our other removal services.
Our fleet includes a variety of vehicles to accommodate every requirement, ranging from small vans to 100m³ road trains.
Removal Services We Know You’ll Like
Export Consultant
With our skilled export consultant on your side, you won’t face any delays with customs paperwork, allowing for a smooth transition to your new destination.
We offer a variety of secure storage solutions in our specially designed warehouses, which are clean, dry, alarmed, fully insured, and pest-controlled. Your belongings can be safely stored while you prepare for your move.
Understanding that packing can be overwhelming, we provide a complete packing service, along with shipping and storage solutions in our secure warehouses, to make the process easier for you.
If you're considering moving vehicles, we offer transportation services tailored to various types of vehicles, including classic cars, making your move from the UK to Europe much less stressful for you.
Requirements for Moving to Spain
If you are planning on relocating to Europe, then it is essential to remember that each European country will have its own requirements for British citizens looking to make the move. Therefore, you will need to take a look at the immigration entry requirements for Spain before you start planning your move.
The government states that a UK citizen can travel to any country within the Schengen Area, including Spain, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing a visa for tourism, business, sports, or study purposes.
If you are staying longer, then you will need to contact the Spanish government to apply for a visa.
Staying in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa does not count toward your 90-day visa-free allowance.
Check your passport validity before planning the move to Spain. Your passport must be issued within the last 10 years before your arrival. It should also be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure. Make sure to look at both the issue date and the expiry date.
You must tell the UK government offices that deal with your benefits, pension and tax if you are moving or retiring abroad.
Check out the ‘Moving or retiring abroad’ page on the UK government website.
Reverse the Move: Moving to the UK from Spain
As an experienced European removal company, we make it easy to move your belongings directly from door to door. Our France-to-UK removal services cover everything from packing and transportation to customs clearance.
Popular Places to Live in Spain
Spain has long been one of the top choices for British expats, both for those working remotely or running businesses and for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle, sunshine, and good healthcare. The “best place” depends a lot on whether you prefer coastal living, cities with culture, or quieter inland spots.
Cotswold Carriers offers removal services for homes or offices relocating from the UK to Spain. Here are some of the top locations to move to in Spain:
Costa Blanca (Alicante region)
Towns such as Jávea, Moraira, Calpe, and Torrevieja have many British expats. They are well-connected via Alicante airport and offer affordable housing, numerous English-speaking services, and a pleasant sunny microclimate. These locations are especially popular among retirees.
Costa del Sol (Málaga region)
Areas like Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, and Nerja offer a lively mix of expats, excellent golf, marinas, and vibrant nightlife. Málaga city itself is becoming trendier, featuring culture, art, and great connections. While it is more expensive than the Costa Blanca, it is also more cosmopolitan.
Mallorca
Favoured by British expats seeking island life, areas like Palma, Santa Ponsa, and Sóller have vibrant expat communities. The region offers beautiful scenery, international schools, and an active lifestyle; however, property prices can be high.
Costa Cálida (Murcia region)
Less crowded than the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, Mazarrón, Cartagena, and Los Alcázares are popular among expats. These areas offer cheaper property and a quieter lifestyle, while still providing good access to airports.
Granada Province (Andalucía)
Inland areas such as Almuñécar, Salobreña, and the Alpujarras attract retirees looking for a combination of sea, mountains, and an authentic Spanish lifestyle. These locations remain affordable and have a strong expat presence.
Valencia Region
Valencia is a city that is more urban, cultural, and affordable than Barcelona and Madrid. In contrast, Denia and Gandía are coastal towns known for their quieter expat communities, excellent food, and healthcare.
Castilla-La Mancha & Extremadura (rural Spain)
Appeals to those seeking peace, affordable housing, and traditional Spanish culture. The British community is smaller but growing, particularly among retirees looking for tranquillity.
Which Area in Spain is For You?
If you're looking for strong expat support networks, English-speaking doctors, and a sense of familiarity, consider exploring the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol. On the other hand, if you seek more authenticity, lower prices, and a slower pace of life, you may want to look into the provinces of Granada and Almería, inland Valencia, or Murcia.