The UK's departure from the European Union has meant big changes to how personal goods are transported across borders. Customs inspections, paperwork requirements and stricter regulatory controls have become normal.. At Indalo Transport, we’ve successfully adapted to this new reality, to ensure that you will avoid the  common pitfalls.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know for understanding customs for Spain Removals post-Brexi. It has info on  required documentation and common misconceptions about how things work now. We give you practical advice for stress free international moves and will save you money on customs fees at the same time.

Customs Tightening Across Borders

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Since Brexit, customs officials on both sides of the Channel have stepped up inspections. Both private individuals and professional movers face increased scrutiny, and failing to comply can have serious consequences.

Key trends include:

• Enhanced Paperwork Requirements: Every item being moved must be documented, with accurate descriptions, values and weights.
• Targeted Inspections: Multi-load vehicles and private movers face heightened scrutiny to ensure no goods are transported without proper documentation.
• Taxation and Penalties: Authorities are vigilant about collecting duties, issuing fines, or even impounding vehicles when there is a failure of compliance.

The days of simply filling a van with personal belongings and driving across the Channel are long gone. This means that every move now requires meticulous preparation and navigating the rules correctly.

Essential Customs Documentation

A successful cross-border move hinges on having the right documents. Here’s what’s required:

1. Detailed Inventory:
   • A comprehensive list of all items being transported, including descriptions, values, and weights. For example:some text
     • Incorrect: "Kitchenware."
     • Correct: "Box of China, 12kg, €30 total value."
     • All descriptions must also be in Spanish as well as English.
   • Boxes must be clearly labeled to match the inventory for customs inspections.

1. Customs Valuation Declaration:
   • This document lists the total value of the goods, which is crucial for calculating VAT or duties. At Indalo Transport, we specialize in submitting very low but compliant valuations to minimize client tax burdens​. THis is because of our long standing agreements with the tax authorities in Spain.
2. Proof of Ownership::
   • For high-value items, receipts or appraisals may be required to verify the declared value.
3. Transfer of Residency (ToR1) Application:
   • This allows individuals relocating permanently to qualify for duty relief. It requires proof of residence in the destination country and documentation from the leaving country, but is only valid when the truck arrives at the border in Spain. This has caught out many people and enables the tax office in Spain to collect fees from the majority of potential expats.
4. Goods Movement Reference (GMR):
   • Necessary for exporting goods from the UK. Without this, a vehicle will be held at the border crossing and will not be allowed to leave the UK.

1. EORI Number:
   • Your moving company needs an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number for customs compliance and to be able to complete the necessary declarations

Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions

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Misunderstanding customs requirements can lead to delays, fines, or even the impounding of vehicles. So let’s clear up some common myths:

1. "I don’t need to declare personal items."
   False. All goods, whether personal or commercial, must go through customs clearance.
2. "Goods older than six months are tax-free."
   Not automatically. While Transfer of Residency applications may offer relief, eligibility criteria are strict.
3. "Combining goods with others saves on paperwork."
   Incorrect. This is highly illegal. Every client’s goods must have separate documentation, even when sharing a vehicle..
4. "My mover said I don’t need to worry about customs."
   This is a red flag. Always ensure your mover is experienced in customs processes and carries out the correct procedure.

Indalo Transport’s Approach to Navigating Customs Compliance for Spain Removals

At Indalo Transport, we make customs compliance simple. Here’s how:

1. Customs Liaison:
   • We work with agents in the UK, Spain, Ireland, and France to handle all customs documentation for you.
2. Accurate Inventories:
   • Our detailed itemized inventories include descriptions, weights, and values, linked to online customs systems for efficient  processing.
3. Efficient ToR Applications:
   • We’ve successfully processed hundreds of Transfer of Residency applications, saving clients thousands in taxes.
4. Minimized Tax Liabilities:
   • Our expertise ensures compliant valuations, reducing import VAT while adhering to regulations​. This is saving our clients thousands of Euros in import VAT through our low valuations.

The Role of Professional Packing in Customs Compliance

Packing isn’t just about protecting your belongings; it’s also a key part of customs compliance. At Indalo Transport, we adhere to the "Indalo Standard" for packing:

• Detailed Packing Lists: Every box is labeled with its contents for easy inspection.
• Secure Packaging: Using triple-walled boxes and eco-friendly materials ensures items are protected during transit.
• Protection for Fragile Goods: Glassware, electronics, and antiques are carefully wrapped in export-grade materials​.

Why Proper Documentation Matters

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Imagine this scenario: You’ve packed your belongings, driven to the border, and been flagged for missing documentation. The consequences can include:

• Delays: Shipments may be held for days or weeks.
• Fines: Non-compliance can result in hefty penalties.
• Impoundment: Vehicles or goods can be seized entirely.

Indalo Transport ensures that all necessary paperwork is in place, so you avoid these risks entirely.

Additional Services by Indalo Transport

To make your move as seamless as possible, we offer:

• Storage Solutions: Secure facilities in Spain, the UK and Ireland, with one month of free storage included for all international removals.

• Shuttle Services: Specialized vehicles for hard-to-access destinations, such as narrow streets in Spanish villages.
• Unpacking and Assembly: Our team will unpack and assemble your belongings at the destination if you require it, saving you time and effort​​.
• Emergency Support: We’re just a call away and are contactable if there are any issues.

Tips for a Smooth Move

Here are some practical steps to ensure a hassle-free relocation:

1. Plan Early: Start preparing your move at least 8–12 weeks in advance.
2. Declutter: Only transport items you’ll use in your new home.
3. Organize Documents: Keep all customs-related paperwork easily accessible.
4. Use Professional Movers: Choose experienced companies like Indalo Transport to handle your move.
5. Label Everything Clearly: This makes both customs clearance and unpacking easier.

Testimonials from Happy Clients

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Our clients consistently recommend Indalo Transport for our professionalism, efficiency, and exceptional service. We understand Customs for Soain Removals after 100s of successful moves.

1. Jane Reay Jones: "I've done 24 international moves in my life and I can honestly say that this was the best and even the most enjoyable. You have a great team... each one of these people is gold for your business."
2. Andy & Ness Money: "In spite of the weather, we had the best day. You & your team are fantastic and we will certainly be recommending you on. Today made our 37th Wedding Anniversary so special."
3. Ian & Jacki Rothwell: "The best removals we've ever experienced. The teams in the UK & in Spain made it smooth and worry free. Everything came out of the boxes just as it went in. We were kept informed throughout and they took time to answer all our questions. Professional & friendly."
4. Roger Bennett: "Excellent – all very professional and committed to providing a good and timely service."
5. Anonymous Client: "Absolute top customer service. Highly professional, friendly and have full knowledge post Brexit of international regulations. I've already recommended the company to the folks who bought my villa. Well done Indalo!"
6. Val Dorrell: "Great service friendly professional crew, nothing was too much bother. Kept informed all the way from packing my belongings to delivery. So thank you to everyone."
7. Survey feedback: "Fantastic service from start to finish, friendly, polite, professional. 'Done what it said on the tin'. We have had to move home several times both in UK and to Spain and this is the best company we have had."
8. Survey feedback: "Indalo is still the best international moving company and I will continue to recommend you all."
9. Survey feedback: "Good service, excellent care of items, easy to contact."
10. Survey feedback: "We cannot thank the Indalo team enough for the service they provided. We moved house, region to region and their super flexible service they provide along with their professional team made the whole process much easier. Many thanks Indalo Transport, I recommend you 100%."

These testimonials reflect the consistent professionalism and dedication of Indalo Transport to provide the best moving experience possible. See anyl of the more than 400 reviews here on the website.

Moving Forward

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Post-Brexit customs regulations may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and a reliable partner, they’re entirely manageable. Indalo Transport simplifies every aspect of the process, from packing and documentation to delivery and customs clearance.

Whether you’re relocating a single item or an entire household, trust us to deliver a stress-free moving experience. Contact Indalo Transport today to start your journey.

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