Top 10 Tips for a Smooth Relocation to France

(written by Burk Bros)

Starting a new chapter in France is exciting, but moving your personal belongings overseas requires careful planning. With decades of experience helping families relocate to and from France, https://burkebros.co.uk/services/moving-to-europe/moving-to-france/ Burke Bros Moving Group have gathered a range of practical suggestions to help reduce stress, avoid delays and ensure moving day goes as smoothly as possible.

1. Secure Your Moving Date Early
   Book your move well in advance and keep your removal company informed of any changes. Last-minute amendments can lead to additional charges. Customs procedures now take longer and involve more documentation, so allow extra time for paperwork and approvals. Local administration in France can also cause unexpected delays.
2. Consider a Part-Load Service
   If you don’t have a full household to transport, many movers offer shared-load options where your belongings travel alongside others. You only pay for the space you use, making it cost-effective. Just remember that delivery schedules are more flexible due to multiple deliveries.
3. Plan Storage if Needed
   Coordinating the UK and French property purchase processes can be tricky, especially post-Brexit. Many movers place goods in UK storage until your French home is ready. Items usually can’t enter French storage unless you already hold ownership of the property.
4. Reduce Food Waste
   In the days leading up to your move, use up your food supplies to avoid unnecessary disposal. Freezers must be completely defrosted before transport. Some companies, such as Burke Bros Moving Group, partner with charities to donate leftover non-perishables. Ask your mover if this is available.
5. Curtains and Furnishings
   Movers can remove curtains or blinds if agreed beforehand, but they typically won’t reinstall them or relay fitted flooring. Check your quotation and service details so expectations are clear.
6. Pack Smartly
   If you’re doing your own packing, start early and use high-quality materials for protection. Many reputable movers, like Burke Bros Moving Group, sell professional-grade cartons and supplies. If you’ve requested a full packing service, leave this job to the trained team.
7. Protect Valuable Items
   Have fragile or valuable belongings such as artwork or antiques? Discuss these with your mover ahead of time so appropriate packing methods, handling instructions and pricing can be arranged.
8. Prepare Your New Home for Delivery
   Removal vehicles typically need around 50 feet of parking space. The closer the access, the quicker and safer the unloading. Inform your movers about narrow streets, limited parking, tight staircases, or restricted entrances so they can plan alternative access if required.
9. Provide Access on Arrival
   Sometimes the removal vehicle reaches the property before you do. If possible, supply your moving crew with a spare key to avoid waiting fees and delays.
10.  Plan Ahead for Pets:
    If you’re relocating with pets, make sure vaccinations, microchip documentation and travel paperwork meet current French entry rules. Professional removers like Burke Bros Moving Group work with trusted partners worldwide to arrange pet transportation. Talk to your removal company early on to ensure you can make arrangements in advance.