Customs Allowance from France to the UK
Moving back to the UK from France can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first experience with post-Brexit regulations. Since the UK’s departure from the EU, crossing borders isn’t as straightforward as it once was. There are more restrictions, tighter checks, and a lot of paperwork to complete — from visa applications to customs declarations.
At Gentlevan Removals, we understand that not everyone has the time, energy, or expertise to deal with this extensive documentation. Over the years, we’ve helped families navigate everything from paperwork to transport logistics with our removals from France to the UK. If you’re planning a similar move, we’d love to help.
In this guide, we’ll explain the customs allowance from France to the UK. Read on to learn what items to declare, what documents to keep handy and how to avoid expensive duties. Once you’ve browsed through the rules, contact us to finalise the move.
What is the Customs Allowance from France to the UK?
Since 2020, any movement between EU member states and the UK has been classified as international travel. Apart from meaning that British nationals now need a visa to cross over to France, it also means that any goods brought back from across the Channel may be subject to customs checks and duties. To understand how it works, consider two distinct customs allowances between France and the UK.
Personal allowance
When travelling to the UK, passengers normally have a personal allowance of £390 for goods such as gifts, clothing, and personal items. Any items above this value must be declared to UK customs, and import VAT and customs duty may apply.
However, when you are moving your household goods to the UK with a removal company and have an approved Transfer of Residence (ToR) application, different rules apply. In most cases, your used personal belongings can enter the UK free of customs duty and VAT. We will explain how ToR relief works in more detail later in this guide.
Household Belongings
If you’re moving back to the UK long-term and have a permanent address here, you may be eligible for Transfer of Residence Relief (ToR1).
This document allows you to move personal items across borders without paying duty or VAT, provided they meet certain conditions. Moreover, to apply for one, you’ll need to provide extensive documentation, including:
- A detailed list of all items you’re transporting
- A copy of your passport page
- Proof of both British and French addresses
- Vehicle or pet details, if applicable
Once you secure this certificate, you no longer pay for items that you’ve owned and used for at least six months — and that aren’t a part of the restricted items list. Moreover, these goods can not be used for commercial purposes and cannot be divested (loaned, sold, rented, etc) for a certain period after your move. They must arrive within 12 months.
The Transfer of Residence program is designed to streamline customs from France to the UK, but it comes with its own pitfalls. The unique reference number, for instance, can take a couple of weeks to arrive, while the paperwork must be filled out appropriately. But that’s where Gentlevan Removals can help.
How Gentlevan Removals Helps with Customs Paperwork
When you’re managing a move between countries, customs paperwork can be the last thing on your mind. Fortunately, it’s not a task you need to figure out alone.
At Gentlevan Removals, we have years of experience carrying out comprehensive removals in and out of the UK. As part of our service, we take care of some key issues associated with customs from France to the UK.
- It starts with a detailed inventory. Our team will be happy to put together a list of all items you’re planning to move, along with estimated value and total weight.
- Then, we’ll need authorisation to handle customs on your behalf. Once your move is booked, we’ll send you the correct form and guide you through it.
- Our team will also gladly guide you through the process of applying for Transfer of Residence relief, to help you avoid delays and rejections.
Finally, Gentlevan Removals will leverage years of experience with customs from France to the UK to ensure your move is as smooth as possible. We know exactly what the officers are looking for and what documents are required when. To get started, request a free quote for our removals from France to the UK.
What Do You Have to Declare at Customs in France?
When you move back to the UK with a removal company and claim Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief, you must declare all the personal belongings you’re bringing with you as part of your shipment. To qualify for ToR relief and avoid customs duty and VAT, your goods generally must:
- Have been owned and used by you for at least 6 months
- Be imported within 12 months of arriving in the UK
- Be for personal use only (not for resale)
You need to complete a ToR1 application with HMRC before your goods arrive, including a detailed inventory of the items you’re moving. Once approved, most household effects, furniture, pets and vehicles can enter duty-free under ToR relief. However, certain items — such as alcohol and tobacco — are not covered by ToR and must be declared separately, with any applicable duty and VAT paid.
Please bear in mind that, as a removal company, we cannot transport pets or alcohol.
If any items don’t meet the ToR conditions (e.g., owned less than 6 months or intended for commercial use), they must be declared to customs and may be subject to import charges.
Door-to-Door Moving Support from France to the UK
Gentlevan Removals is the trusted moving partner of many Brits headed for the EU or back to the UK. We specialise in packing, moving and storing personal and household items, making your move easier and your logistics hassle-free. A key part of our offering also includes navigating complex customs allowances between France and the UK.
The hallmarks of our premium removals from France to the UK include thorough planning, effective and efficient logistics capabilities and personalised services. You can count on us to care for every aspect of your move with attention to detail.
You can call us or email us for more information. You may also get an online quote or book your video survey appointment online. Let’s make your move a gentle journey. Gentlevan Removals will help you get there.
Customs France to UK: Final Thoughts
Moving across borders has become a lot more complicated since Brexit, but you don’t have to handle the heavy lifting on your own. With the right guidance and the right partner, the process can be simple, smooth and completely manageable.
All you really need to remember is that if you’re moving your main residence to the UK, you can bring your belongings over without duty or VAT using the Transfer of Residence Relief. While certain goods must be declared, our team will walk you through each step, help prepare the paperwork and ensure everything is cleared before arrival.
If you’re, instead, still looking for a new home, check out this guide on the best areas in Banbury to live — it’s a beautiful town with excellent connections and a timeless charm. Whenever you’re ready to plan your move, we’re here to help.