Planning removals to Spain from the UK? We'd love to help. Gentlevan Removals has been running house moves from our Oxfordshire base since 2011, and the UK-Spain route has grown into one of our busiest corridors — we know it inside out. Our bi-weekly runs cover every mainland Spanish destination from villas on the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca to apartments in Barcelona and Madrid, retirement homes in Alicante and Valencia, and rural fincas deep in Andalusia. Prices start from £1,200 for part-load consignments, and whatever size move you need, we'll handle the packing, the customs paperwork and the door-to-door delivery so you don't have to.
We offer three ways to move, depending on your budget and how flexible your dates are. A shared-load means your belongings travel alongside other customers heading to Spain the same week — the most affordable option. Part-load suits smaller moves of 1–2 rooms. A dedicated vehicle is your own van, your chosen dates, no other stops. Whichever you pick, we'll take care of all the post-Brexit customs clearance — including the DUA (Documento Único Administrativo) and Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief paperwork where you qualify.
We're a family-run business with 193+ five-star reviews, proudly accredited by Move Assured and AIM (the Association of Independent Movers). We also bring people back the other way — Spain-to-UK returns run on the same corridor, which is a popular route for British expats heading home. Spain sits alongside our wider European removals network, so whether you're heading out or coming back, we've got you covered.
A full household move to mainland Spain typically costs between £2,500 and £7,000 on a door-to-door basis, with part-load services from around £1,200 for smaller consignments. Pricing depends on three factors: the volume of your shipment (measured at survey in cubic feet), your destination in Spain, and the service tier you choose.
| Move Size | Service Type | Price Range (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Part-load (1–2 rooms) | Part-load | £1,200 – £3,000 |
| 1–2 bed household | Part-load or shared-load | £2,500 – £4,500 |
| 3-bed family home | Shared-load or dedicated | £4,000 – £7,000 |
| 4+ bed home | Dedicated vehicle | £6,500 – £10,000+ |
Prices include loading, transport, customs paperwork, Transfer of Residence (ToR) support, and delivery inside your Spanish home. For a detailed breakdown, read our guide to the cost of removals from UK to Spain, or get an exact quote online in under 60 seconds.
Transit time from our Oxfordshire base depends on your Spanish destination and which route we take (Portsmouth-to-Santander ferry, or Dover-Calais plus road through France). Typical times:
Shared-load moves may add 3–5 days during consolidation. Dedicated vehicles run direct, so they're the fastest option when timing matters.
Gentlevan covers mainland Spain in full — from the Basque Country in the north to Andalusia in the south, and every Costa region in between. We operate bi-weekly removals (every second week) to the most popular expat destinations and can quote for anywhere in mainland Spain on request.
We have dedicated service pages for our most-requested destinations:
We also regularly move to Seville, Málaga, Bilbao, Zaragoza, Granada, Santander, Murcia, and Almería.
Our most popular Spanish routes run to the Costa coastlines, where most UK expats settle. See our guide to moving to Marbella for a deep dive into Costa del Sol life.
Not every move goes to the coast. We deliver throughout Spain — to villages and rural properties in inland Andalusia, La Rioja, Extremadura, Castilla y León and the Basque Country. If you've bought a finca, a village house, or anywhere off the motorway network, we'll plan access and any shuttle-vehicle requirements before your moving day. See our guide to the best cities to live in Spain for a full breakdown.
We’ve refined our removal process over the years to make moving as simple as possible:
You can also get optional storage & unpacking services. Whatever you need – just ask! We handle piano transport, professional dismantling and reassembly as well.
As a family-run business, we keep things personal. From your first quote through to delivery in Spain, you'll have the same dedicated point of contact — we answer the phone and the emails ourselves.
Need to store your belongings for a short time while you finalise accommodation or travel? We offer clean and secure UK-based storage — with 2 months FREE included on every international move.
Relocating to Spain is an exciting step, and with Gentlevan, you’re in safe hands. Since 2011, we combine personal service with professional standards to deliver door-to-door removals across the UK and mainland Spain. Here’s what sets us apart:
We also support moves for retirees, digital nomads, and those looking to relocate long-term. Our advice covers everything from documentation and residence registration to tips on integrating into your new Spanish community.
Satisfied customers highly recommend Gentlevan Removals, and we take pride in delivering excellent service. Whether you're moving to a small one-bedroom flat or a large six-bedroom family home, our friendly and professional team will handle your possessions with the utmost care.
Relocating to Spain offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy its rich culture, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle — but preparation is key to avoiding common pitfalls. Many people underestimate the complexity of visas and residency requirements, so ensure you have the correct documentation in place before your move. Learning basic Spanish can make a world of difference, helping you integrate into the community and navigate daily life with ease.
Financial planning is equally important — research the cost of living, set aside emergency savings, and open a local bank account to manage your finances efficiently. Avoid rushing into buying property without first getting a feel for the area; renting initially allows you to explore different neighbourhoods.
Choosing the right removals company is also crucial. At Gentlevan Removals, our experienced team ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time, handling customs, transport, and logistics to ensure a stress-free relocation. Finally, be open to cultural differences — embracing Spanish customs and lifestyle will help you settle in more smoothly.
Plan, stay flexible, and let Gentlevan Removals make your move to Spain as seamless as possible.
Living in Spain has long been a dream for many British citizens, thanks to its warm weather, laid-back lifestyle, and vibrant culture. However, since Brexit, the process of moving and settling in Spain has become more complex. The UK’s departure from the European Union means British nationals are no longer automatically entitled to live, work, or retire in Spain. Understanding these changes is essential before making the move — and planning your relocation with a trusted removals partner like Gentlevan Removals can make a huge difference.
Before Brexit, moving to Spain was simple for UK citizens — they could live and work freely without additional paperwork. Now, British expats must apply for a visa or residence permit under Spain’s general immigration rules. This often involves proving financial stability, showing private health insurance, and obtaining a Foreigner’s Identification Number (NIE). Those who moved before Brexit can apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), securing their right to remain under the Withdrawal Agreement.
Employment and healthcare have also changed. Working in Spain now requires a valid work visa, while accessing healthcare typically means arranging private insurance or meeting specific eligibility criteria for Spain’s national health system. Everyday tasks — such as registering at the local town hall or renewing a driving licence — can also involve more paperwork than before.
Despite the challenges, life in Spain remains rewarding. Many British expats continue to enjoy Spain’s excellent quality of life, thriving expat communities, and diverse regions — from the sun-drenched coasts to the cultural hubs of Madrid and Barcelona. Integration is key: learning Spanish, embracing local customs, and engaging with the community help make the transition smoother.
Expat networks and organisations, including local British associations and online forums, provide vital support, advice, and companionship. Staying informed about legal requirements, healthcare, and tax obligations ensures a stress-free experience.
While Brexit has changed the framework for living in Spain, careful preparation and the right professional support make the move entirely achievable. Gentlevan Removals offers reliable removals to Spain, managing logistics and customs with expertise, so you can focus on settling into your new life with peace of mind.
If you’re preparing to move from the UK to Spain, understanding Spanish customs regulations is essential for a smooth transition. Post-Brexit, British citizens are now subject to non-EU import rules, meaning extra documentation, value limits, and possible taxes may apply to your belongings. Knowing what you can and can’t ship—and preparing the right paperwork—helps avoid delays, costs, or complications during your move.
At Gentlevan Removals, we handle every aspect of your move to Spain, from packing and shipping to navigating customs clearance. Our door-to-door service ensures your belongings arrive safely, while we manage the necessary documentation on your behalf.
When shipping personal effects, you’ll need to provide a detailed packing list outlining the quantity, description, and value of each item — which we can prepare for you. Spanish customs also require:
To qualify for VAT (IVA) exemption, customs officers may also ask for your TIE residency card, a recent Padrón certificate, and Form P-85 from HMRC.
Certain goods are restricted or prohibited. Common restricted items include alcohol, tobacco, fresh food, plants, medicines (which must be accompanied by a prescription), and antiques or cultural artefacts that may need special permits. Prohibited items include illegal drugs, firearms, hazardous materials, and counterfeit goods.
Most non-commercial personal items shipped by air or sea are tax-free unless their total value exceeds €430. However, all goods must be accurately declared in Spanish, and descriptions for items under six months old must be certified by the Spanish Consulate in the UK.
If importing a motor vehicle, it must be at least six months old and accompanied by documents such as the Certificate of Title, purchase invoice, registration papers, and proof of insurance.
Gentlevan Removals provides full guidance throughout the customs process, ensuring every requirement is met correctly. With our experience handling removals to Spain, you can move stress-free, knowing your belongings are in expert hands.
For comprehensive information on visa requirements, visit the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate in the UK . They will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa types, application processes, and any additional requirements. By being well-informed about the customs requirements and visa regulations, you can ensure a smooth transition and make the necessary arrangements to comply with the legal obligations when moving from the UK to Spain.
You might also need to register with the local town hall (empadronamiento), apply for a NIE number, or arrange healthcare and schooling for your children.
Removals to Spain from the UK typically cost between £2,500 and £7,000 for a door-to-door household move, with part-load services from around £1,200 for smaller consignments. Price varies by the volume of your belongings, your Spanish destination, and whether you choose part-load, shared-load or dedicated service. Request a free no-obligation online quote for an exact figure, or read our detailed cost of removals to Spain guide.
Transit time depends on your Spanish destination and which route we take (Portsmouth-to-Santander ferry, or Dover-Calais plus road through France). From our Oxfordshire base, expect 3–4 working days to Northern Spain (Bilbao, Santander, Galicia); 4–5 days to Madrid and central Spain; and 5–10 days to the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Valencia, Alicante and Barcelona. Shared-load moves may add 3–5 days during consolidation. Dedicated vehicles run direct for the fastest service.
Yes — we include 2 months FREE UK storage with every UK to Spain (and Spain to UK) removal. This is ideal if you're waiting for a Non-Lucrative Visa, your Spanish property completion is delayed, or your UK house sale and Spanish move don't line up. Storage is at our secure Oxfordshire facility with full insurance cover.
Yes — we handle all post-Brexit customs paperwork for you, including the DUA (Documento Único Administrativo) customs declaration, detailed inventory of belongings, and Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief application where you qualify. UK residents moving permanently to Spain can apply for ToR relief, which exempts household belongings from Spanish import duties and VAT, provided you have owned the items for at least 6 months and are establishing genuine residence in Spain.
Yes — UK retirees can move to Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa, which requires proof of passive income or savings of at least €28,800 per year for the main applicant (400% of Spain's IPREM benchmark for 2026), plus €7,200 per year for each dependent. Private health insurance with full Spain coverage and no co-payments is mandatory. The visa is initially granted for one year and renewable for two-year terms.
A dedicated vehicle is reserved exclusively for your belongings — you choose collection and delivery dates and there are no other stops. A shared-load service combines your belongings with those of other customers travelling the same week, reducing cost by 50% or more compared to dedicated. A part-load is for smaller moves that don't fill a household — typically 1–2 rooms of furniture, starting from £1,200. See our dedicated part-load removals to Spain page.
Yes. Post-Brexit, UK nationals need a visa to stay in Spain for more than 90 days in any 180-day period. The most common routes are the Non-Lucrative Visa (for retirees and those with passive income), the Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers earning at least 200% of the Spanish minimum wage), the Work Visa (with a Spanish employer), and family reunification visas. Most applicants start the process 4–6 months before their planned move date. You'll also need an NIE number as part of the residency process.
Yes. Our vehicles run removals in both directions on our bi-weekly Spain corridor, and we regularly handle return moves for expats coming back to the UK. UK customs clearance on arrival uses a different relief (ToR1) which we can guide you through. Read our guide to moving back to the UK from Spain, or request a quote online with collection in Spain and delivery in the UK.
The top three mistakes are underestimating the complexity of the Non-Lucrative Visa application (allow 4–6 months), failing to start Spanish language learning before the move, and buying property before renting in the area first. Get your visa paperwork started early, use the time to learn basic Spanish, and rent for 6–12 months before committing to a property purchase.
You'll need your residency visa (or proof of your visa application), a passport copy, your Spanish address (rental contract or property deed), a detailed inventory of belongings (we supply the template), and proof of UK address such as a recent utility bill. If you're claiming Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief for tax-free import, you'll also need proof you've owned the goods for at least 6 months. We'll guide you through every document and handle the DUA customs declaration with Spanish Agencia Tributaria.
Ready to move to Spain or return to the UK?
Call us on +44 7861 930529
Let Gentlevan Removals handle the logistics while you focus on your new life.
Our track record speaks for itself when it comes to relocating from the United Kingdom to Spain. Over the years, we helped customers in their move to a wide range of locations across Spain, including:
We’ve recently added guides to many of these locations on our blog—be sure to check them out if you’re considering a move!
We understand the importance of ensuring your belongings reach their destination safely and securely. That's why we go the extra mile to offer reliable transportation options you can trust. But we don't stop there. Our experienced and dedicated team will carefully handle your belongings, using high-quality materials to safeguard them from any potential damage.
Gentlevan Removals is dedicated to providing top-quality removal services. We continually improve our services to ensure our customers receive the best possible experience. Our team is committed to professionalism, punctuality, and excellent customer service.
We invite feedback after every move and proudly publish customer reviews—it’s our way of showing full transparency and a commitment to constant improvement.
We are also committed to environmentally friendly practices. Our shared load service saves you money and reduces your move's carbon footprint. We use eco-friendly packaging materials and optimise our logistics to minimise environmental impact.
We believe responsible removals shouldn’t cost the earth – and we make green choices at every opportunity.
Don't just take our word for it; hear from our satisfied customers. Many have praised our efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and friendly staff. We are proud to have built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry.
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