Moving from the UK to Germany
Germany is a leading destination for UK movers relocating for work, with strong demand around Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg and the industrial west. It is a relatively short, efficient road move via the Channel and the well-connected European motorway network.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from the UK to Germany?
| Home size | Shared load | Dedicated vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bed | £1,100 – £2,500 | £2,000 – £3,600 |
| 2-bed | £1,700 – £3,300 | £2,700 – £4,600 |
| 3-bed | £2,800 – £5,200 | £4,200 – £7,000 |
| 4+ bed | £4,200 – £7,500 | £6,000 – £10,500 |
Prices include packing, the Channel crossing, transport and delivery.
What affects the price
- Destination — western cities (Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt) are closer than Berlin, Munich or the east.
- Volume — the main cost driver.
- City access — many German flats are in upper floors of older buildings without lifts; an external lift ("Möbelaufzug") may be needed and can add cost.
How Long Does It Take?
| Service | Typical transit |
|---|---|
| Dedicated vehicle | 2 – 4 days |
| Shared / part load | 1 – 2 weeks |
Customs & Paperwork After Brexit
- Detailed valued inventory in German or bilingual.
- Transfer of residence relief — used household goods can usually be imported duty- and VAT-free when you move your primary residence, if owned and used for at least 6 months.
- Customs declaration (Zollanmeldung) — handled by your remover.
- Proof of residence — employment contract, rental agreement or registration.
Visas & Residency
UK citizens need the right residence permit to live and work in Germany. The first step after arrival is the Anmeldung — registering your address at the local Bürgeramt within roughly two weeks, which then unlocks tax ID, banking and more. Check current rules on GOV.UK and the German Federal Foreign Office.
Popular Destinations
- Berlin — start-ups, culture, lower rents than Munich.
- Munich — high salaries and high living costs.
- Frankfurt — finance hub.
- Hamburg & the west — media, ports and industry.
The Moving Process Step by Step
- Book a video survey and get 3 itemised quotes.
- Prepare your inventory and proof of residence.
- Declutter and pack.
- Collection and sealing in the UK.
- Channel crossing and motorway transport.
- Delivery — confirm whether an external furniture lift is needed.
- Complete your Anmeldung after arrival.
How to Save Money
- Ship only what you will use — German flats are often compact.
- Choose a shared load with flexible dates.
- Avoid peak summer and end-of-month slots.
- Ask whether a furniture lift is included to avoid surprise charges.
Choosing an International Remover
Look for BAR Overseas / FIDI members with regular German routes, transit insurance and experience arranging building access. Benchmark the UK leg with our calculator and read the international moving costs guide.